Overview

Fritillaria imperialis 'Orange Brilliant' is a bulbous perennial in the genus Fritillaria, part of the Liliaceae family. It typically grows around 1.0 m tall. Fritillaria imperialis 'Orange Brilliant' grows best in full sun, and tolerates loamy and clay soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. It is native to Asia.

About

Fritillaria imperialis 'Orange Brilliant' is a bulbous perennial producing strongly musky-scented flowers on stems to about 1.0 m. It belongs to the genus Fritillaria in the family Liliaceae and is native to Asia. Plant in full sun in loamy or clay soil that is well-drained or moist but well-drained. Take care with placement around children and pets because all parts are toxic if ingested.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0Fritillaria 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 4.0Fritillaria

In the garden

A tall, spring-flowering bulb, Fritillaria imperialis 'Orange Brilliant' belongs to the Liliaceae family and originates from Asia. It flowers in the UK from March to May and is noted for a strong, musky fragrance and a stem height of about 1.0 m, which gives it presence where planted. Give this cultivar a sunny site in loamy or clay soil that drains well; it will tolerate soils described as moist provided they do not remain waterlogged. The plant is hardy in UK terms to H5 (hardy) and corresponds to USDA zones 7–9, so it will survive typical outdoor winters in most of the UK without special winter protection. Because of its height, position it towards the back of mixed borders or in a seasonal bulb display where the stems can be seen without being swamped by later perennials. The strong scent is noticeable in spring and can be a design consideration near paths or seating. Handle bulbs and foliage with care and avoid planting where children or pets might ingest any part, as the whole plant is toxic if swallowed.

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 'Orange Brilliant' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Bulbous perennial
Height
1.0 m
Native to
Asia
Fragrance
Strong, musky
Toxicity
Toxic if ingested

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Fritillaria imperialis 'Orange Brilliant'

Propagation
By bulbs

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Fritillaria imperialis 'Orange Brilliant'?

Fritillaria imperialis 'Orange Brilliant' prefers full sun.

What soil does Fritillaria imperialis 'Orange Brilliant' need?

Fritillaria imperialis 'Orange Brilliant' grows best in loamy and clay soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.

How big does Fritillaria imperialis 'Orange Brilliant' grow?

Fritillaria imperialis 'Orange Brilliant' reaches a height of 1.0 m.

Is Fritillaria imperialis 'Orange Brilliant' hardy in the UK?

Fritillaria imperialis 'Orange Brilliant' has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.

How do I propagate Fritillaria imperialis 'Orange Brilliant'?

By bulbs.

Is Fritillaria imperialis 'Orange Brilliant' toxic?

Toxic if ingested.

More in the Fritillaria genus

Browse all Fritillaria