Overview
Fritillaria imperialis Variegated is a bulbous perennial in the genus Fritillaria, part of the Liliaceae family. It typically grows around 1.0 m tall. Fritillaria imperialis Variegated grows best in full sun, and tolerates loamy and clay soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. It is native to Turkey to Himalaya.
About
Fritillaria imperialis Variegated is a bulbous perennial in the Liliaceae that reaches about 1.0 m and is noted for a strong, musky fragrance. It flowers from March to May. Best grown in full sun on loamy or clay soils that are moist but well-drained and it is classed H5 for UK hardiness. Ornamental bulbs are not to be eaten; wear gloves when handling and consult the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information.
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 Variegated is a bulbous perennial from the Liliaceae, native from Turkey to the Himalaya, that grows to roughly 1.0 m and flowers in spring (March to May). Its most notable feature is a pronounced musky scent at flowering time, which is a consideration when siting it close to paths or seating. Select a sunny, sheltered spot in a garden bed with loamy or clay soil that remains moist but drains freely; the bulbs do not tolerate prolonged waterlogging. The plant is rated H5 for the UK (equivalent to hardy) and also falls within USDA zones 7–9, so it withstands typical British winter conditions provided the soil drains well. Use at the back of a sunny border or as a grouped bulb feature where its 1.0 m height will provide vertical emphasis. Handle the bulbs with gloves and other protective equipment, since they are ornamental and not to be eaten — the musky aroma is strongest while in flower and can linger on skin, so take care when lifting or dividing bulbs.
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 Variegated size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Bulbous perennial
- Height
- 1.0 m
- Native to
- Turkey to Himalaya
- 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 Variegated
- Propagation
- By bulb offsets
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Fritillaria imperialis Variegated?
Fritillaria imperialis Variegated prefers full sun.
What soil does Fritillaria imperialis Variegated need?
Fritillaria imperialis Variegated grows best in loamy and clay soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.
How big does Fritillaria imperialis Variegated grow?
Fritillaria imperialis Variegated reaches a height of 1.0 m.
Is Fritillaria imperialis Variegated hardy in the UK?
Fritillaria imperialis Variegated 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 Variegated?
By bulb offsets.
Is Fritillaria imperialis Variegated 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