About

Fritillaria stenanthera, the narrow-anther fritillary, is a compact bulb from Central Asia producing strap-like, green leaves edged red and clusters of upright, compact, pink, nodding flowers with dark greenish-yellow centres in mid to late spring. A charming and ornamental fritillary for a well-drained bulb frame or sunny rock garden.

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 moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH4

Plant details

Plant typeBulbs, Herbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming, Columnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden, Architectural
Native toC Asia
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 best in fertile. well-drained soil in full sun. See bulb cultivation for further advice
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by offsets or division in late summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and lily beetle
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free