Fritillaria raddeana

A rare and exciting fritillary which is related to the Crown Imperial variety yet is more subtle, with shorter stems and a less structured arrangement of flowers. Fritillaria raddeana holds delicate clusters of soft cream to pale yellow flowers, accented by a hint of green, atop strong stems with a glorious, green crown of leaves from March to May each year. Ground level foliage emerges in March and the lance-shaped whorls of leaves are retained through to June for further interest. Native to Central Asia, Fritillaria raddeana flowers are exotic looking whilst being able to adapt well to the UK climate. Drainage is key to ensuring Fritillaria raddeana thrives and naturalises, so find a spot which benefits from well-drained soil which will not become too wet during colder weather. Alternatively, plant in pots, rockeries or raised beds. You will be handsomely rewarded with multiple blooms on each stem - great for cutting and providing invaluable sustenance to pollinators. Prefers a site in full sun or partial shade - with flowers lasting longer in the latter. Fully hardy, naturalising, bulbous perennial which grows to a maximum of 60cm tall.