About
Fritillaria pyrenaica, the Pyrenean fritillary, is a bulbous perennial to 40 cm tall with narrow, glaucous leaves scattered up the stem and one to two broadly bell-shaped, brownish-purple flowers to 3.5 cm long � glossy yellow or greenish inside � in late spring. A reliable and ornamental fritillary for a well-drained, sunny border.
About the genus
Fritillaria are bulbous herbaceous perennials with lance-shaped or linear leaves and nodding, bell-shaped or cup-shaped flowers in a wide range of colours � from white and yellow to orange, purple, brown and green, often with chequered or mottled markings. They range from stately crown imperials to delicate alpine species.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, North-facing, East-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeBulbs
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesRock garden, Cottage and informal garden
Native toFrance to Spain
ToxicityOrnamental 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
CultivationGrows well in most fertile, well-drained soils. Handle the fragile bulbs carefully and plant at four times own depth
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed, sown in pots in a cold frame in autumn. Needs exposure to winter cold for germination in spring. Divide offsets in late summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and lily beetle
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free