There is no other plant quite like Fritillaria imperialis, the most striking and dramatic of all fritillaries. From early to mid-spring, its tall, strong stems erupt in large, fiery toned, season-defying blooms. Though a far cry from the muted and delicate fritillaries of meadow and woodland, a clear family resemblance is nevertheless evident in the bell-shape and bashful, nodding habit of the flowers. For this collection we have brought together two particularly intense and richly coloured cultivars. Fritillaria imperialis 'Orange Beauty' is the first to flower (from March to April), its shiny, terracotta blooms borne on 1m tall stems. Slightly later (April to May), Fritillaria imperialis 'Rubra' bursts into life with scarlet-orange flowers on stems reaching up to 1.5m. Plant in a sunny spot in any rich soil, avoiding areas prone to waterlogging. Note these large bulbs should be planted at a depth of at least 30cm, as any shallower can result in failure to flower. Crown imperials can take time to settle in, though if happy with the conditions they will eventually multiply to form impressive clumps. Hardy as it gets; to -20 C and beyond.
When To Plant
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