Overview
Fritillaria pyrenaica is a bulbous perennial in the genus Fritillaria, part of the Liliaceae family. Fritillaria pyrenaica grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained and sandy or loamy soils and neutral and slightly acidic pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include rock gardens, borders and alpine gardens. It is native to France to Spain.
About
Fritillaria pyrenaica is a bulbous perennial in the Liliaceae that flowers in spring (March to May). Native from France to Spain, it favours open but sheltered sites. Plant in well-drained sandy or loamy soil of neutral to slightly acidic pH and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Handle the bulbs with gloves — they are ornamental only and must not be eaten.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Fritillaria pyrenaica
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 pyrenaica is a bulbous perennial in the lily family native to the Pyrenees, between France and Spain, and produces its flowers in spring (March to May). Its growth habit suits open positions that remain sheltered from the harshest exposure, and it performs best on south- or east-facing aspects where early-season light is available. Place bulbs where they will receive full sun or partial shade in well-drained sandy or loamy soil; soils should be neutral to slightly acidic and kept moist but free-draining. The plant carries a UK hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is classed as hardy and appropriate for many parts of the country provided sites are sheltered from prevailing winds and extreme exposure. Use Fritillaria pyrenaica in rock gardens, alpine beds or mixed borders on a sheltered south- or east-facing bank where its spring flowering can be appreciated. Take care when handling or lifting the bulbs: they are ornamental and not for consumption, so wear gloves and other protective equipment and consult the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Fritillaria
- Sunlight
- full sun, partial shade
- Soil type
- well-drained, sandy or loamy
- Soil pH
- neutral, slightly acidic
- Soil moisture
- moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- south, east
- Exposure
- sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Fritillaria pyrenaica size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- bulbous perennial
- Suggested uses
- rock gardens, borders, alpine gardens
- Native to
- France to Spain
- 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 pyrenaica
- Cultivation
- Plant bulbs in autumn at a depth of about 10-15 cm. Prefers well-drained soil and a sheltered position. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Pruning
- Remove spent flowers to prevent seed formation; cut back foliage after it has died down naturally.
- Propagation
- Propagation by seed or by bulb offsets in autumn.
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Fritillaria pyrenaica?
Plant bulbs in autumn at a depth of about 10-15 cm. Prefers well-drained soil and a sheltered position. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
Where is the best place to plant Fritillaria pyrenaica?
Fritillaria pyrenaica prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Fritillaria pyrenaica need?
Fritillaria pyrenaica grows best in well-drained and sandy or loamy soil. It prefers neutral and slightly acidic soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Fritillaria pyrenaica?
Remove spent flowers to prevent seed formation; cut back foliage after it has died down naturally.
Is Fritillaria pyrenaica hardy in the UK?
Fritillaria pyrenaica 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 pyrenaica?
Propagation by seed or by bulb offsets in autumn.
Is Fritillaria pyrenaica 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