Blog

Growing Guide – Fritillaria

Graceful and unusual, Fritillarias bring exotic charm to spring borders. From the bold Imperial Crown types to the delicate Snakeshead Fritillary, they thrive when given the right conditions.

Featured Varieties

• Fritillaria imperialis ‘Lutea’ – Striking golden-yellow pendant flowers topped with a crown of leafy bracts. Tall and architectural, perfect for the back of a border.
• Fritillaria imperialis ‘Rubra’ – Fiery orange-red flowers, equally bold and dramatic.
• Fritillaria Persica – Tall spires of dusky plum-purple, almost black bell-shaped blooms. Excellent for contrast and a modern look in planting schemes.
• Fritillaria ‘Ivory Bells’ – A softer alternative to Persica, with elegant greenish-white bells.
• Fritillaria Meleagris – The beloved Snakeshead Fritillary, with chequered purple or white flowers. Ideal for naturalising in damp grass or woodland areas.

Planting & Care

Soil:

• Fertile, well-drained soil is essential for most Fritillarias.
• F. meleagris tolerates heavier, damp soils and thrives in moist meadows or at pond edges.

Position:

• Sun to partial shade.
• Imperials and Persica types prefer a sunny, sheltered spot.
• Meleagris is happy in dappled shade under trees or in grass.

Planting Depth & Spacing:

• Plant large bulbs (Imperialis, Persica, Ivory Bells) 20–25cm deep, spaced 20–30cm apart.
• Plant smaller bulbs (Meleagris) 8–10cm deep, spaced 8–10cm apart.
• Bulbs often have a hollow top – plant them on their side to prevent water sitting and rotting the bulb.

When to Plant:

• September to October. Plant promptly on arrival as fritillaria bulbs can dry out quickly.

Watering & Feeding:

• Water in dry spells during active growth.
• Feed with a balanced fertiliser in spring as shoots emerge.

After Flowering:

• Allow foliage to die back naturally to replenish the bulb.
• Imperials and Persica benefit from being left undisturbed for several years.
• Meleagris will gently self-seed and spread if happy.

Special Notes

• Plant among perennials or low shrubs to disguise their dying foliage.
• Imperials are known to deter foxes and mice with their musky scent.
• Meleagris are excellent for naturalising in meadows Meleagris while you can  add vertical drama to formal borders  with Imperials, Persica,  and Ivory Bells.

Tip: For reliable flowering of Fritillaria imperialis, ensure bulbs are planted deeply in well-drained soil and avoid lifting them unnecessarily.