Overview
Fritillaria imperialis 'Aurora' is a bulbous perennial in the genus Fritillaria, part of the Liliaceae family. It typically grows around 1.0 m tall. Fritillaria imperialis 'Aurora' grows best in full sun, and tolerates loamy and clay soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H5.
About
Fritillaria imperialis 'Aurora' is a bulbous perennial in the Liliaceae that reaches about 1.0 m and carries a strong, musky scent. It forms a prominent crown of spring flowers above a stem of glossy leaves and flowers from March to May. Plant the bulbs in a sunny, well-drained spot in loamy or clay soils. Wear gloves when handling bulbs as they are ornamental only and must not be eaten.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Fritillaria imperialis
About the genus
Fritillaria (fritillaries) is a genus of spring flowering herbaceous bulbous perennial plants in the lily family (Liliaceae). The type species, Fritillaria meleagris, was first described in Europe in 1571, while other species from the Middle East and Asia were also introduced to Europe at that time. The genus has about 130–140 species divided among eight subgenera.
Wikipedia contributors, "Fritillaria", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Fritillaria
In the garden
Fritillaria imperialis 'Aurora' is a tall bulbous perennial in the lily family that typically reaches around 1.0 m and is noted for its strong, musky fragrance. The flowering season is March to May, when the terminal cluster of blooms forms the characteristic crown above the stem. Position the bulbs in full sun on loamy or clay soils that are moist but well-drained; avoid waterlogged patches. Hardiness rating H5 indicates it is hardy in most parts of the UK. The USDA zones 7–9 listing gives an indication of its tolerance in milder temperate climates. A sunny, sheltered site helps keep stems upright through the flowering period. At its height it works well at the back of mixed borders or with sturdy herbaceous perennials that can take the weight of the stems once flowering begins. Handle bulbs with care: they are ornamental only and should not be eaten, so wear gloves and other protective equipment when planting or dividing, and consult the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information. The strong musky fragrance is a defining feature of its spring display.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Fritillaria
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loamy, Clay
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Fritillaria imperialis 'Aurora' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Bulbous perennial
- Height
- 1.0 m
- Fragrance
- Strong, musky
- Toxicity
- Ornamental bulbs, not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Ornamental bulbs, not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Fritillaria imperialis 'Aurora'?
Fritillaria imperialis 'Aurora' prefers full sun.
What soil does Fritillaria imperialis 'Aurora' need?
Fritillaria imperialis 'Aurora' grows best in loamy and clay soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.
How big does Fritillaria imperialis 'Aurora' grow?
Fritillaria imperialis 'Aurora' reaches a height of 1.0 m.
Is Fritillaria imperialis 'Aurora' hardy in the UK?
Fritillaria imperialis 'Aurora' has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
Is Fritillaria imperialis 'Aurora' toxic?
Ornamental bulbs, not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Ornamental bulbs, not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers.
More in the Fritillaria genus
- Fritillaria cirrhosayellow Himalayan fritillary
- Fritillaria hermonis from Jebel esh Sharqui Mtns, Lebanon