A low stone wall adorned with welcoming flowers is often found at the courtyard entrance of Tuscan villas. Italians so love their flowers that it isn’t uncommon for neighbors to fall into brief exchanges of floral one-upmanship regarding their presentation. Gerani (geraniums), a flower of change and of a positive outlook, are a favorite for the happiness and warmth their riotous red accent gives the streets and alleyways of this romantic country. - June Carey