Overview
Fritillaria imperialis 'Rubra Maxima' is a bulbous perennial in the genus Fritillaria, part of the Liliaceae family. It typically grows around 1.0 m tall. Fritillaria imperialis 'Rubra Maxima' 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 'Rubra Maxima' is a bulbous perennial in the lily family, notable for a strong, musky fragrance. It grows to around 1.0 m and produces its flowers from March to May. Native to Asia, the plant develops from ornamental bulbs that should not be eaten and are best handled with gloves.
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 'Rubra Maxima' is a bulbous perennial in the Liliaceae, native to Asia and grown for its tall habit and pronounced scent. It reaches about 1.0 m and flowers from March to May, making it a spring architectural element where height is wanted without tree-scale planting. Plant into a sunny site on loamy or clay soils that are moist but well drained; the cultivar favours full sun. It carries a UK hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is classed as hardy and will survive typical winter conditions across much of the UK (USDA zones 7–9 for those gardening to that system). Avoid sites that remain waterlogged through winter, as bulbs prefer soil that drains while retaining some moisture in spring. Use the plant where a tall accent is needed at the rear of a border or beside paved areas where the scent can be appreciated; its stature suits bold spring schemes and formal beds. Handle the bulbs with gloves and other protective equipment: they are ornamental only and not to be eaten, and for further guidance consult the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for useful contact numbers.
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 'Rubra Maxima' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Bulbous perennial
- Height
- 1.0 m
- Native to
- Asia
- 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
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Fritillaria imperialis 'Rubra Maxima'
- Propagation
- By bulb offsets
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Fritillaria imperialis 'Rubra Maxima'?
Fritillaria imperialis 'Rubra Maxima' prefers full sun.
What soil does Fritillaria imperialis 'Rubra Maxima' need?
Fritillaria imperialis 'Rubra Maxima' grows best in loamy and clay soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.
How big does Fritillaria imperialis 'Rubra Maxima' grow?
Fritillaria imperialis 'Rubra Maxima' reaches a height of 1.0 m.
Is Fritillaria imperialis 'Rubra Maxima' hardy in the UK?
Fritillaria imperialis 'Rubra Maxima' 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 'Rubra Maxima'?
By bulb offsets.
Is Fritillaria imperialis 'Rubra Maxima' 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