Overview
Fritillaria verticillata thunbergii of gardens is a bulbous perennial in the genus Fritillaria, part of the Liliaceae family. It typically grows around 0.6 m tall. Fritillaria verticillata thunbergii of gardens grows best in full sun, and tolerates sandy and loamy soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is native to S Siberia to Japan.
About
Fritillaria verticillata thunbergii of gardens is a bulbous perennial in the lily family that produces nodding, bell-shaped flowers. Plants grow to about 0.6 m and characteristically carry leaves in whorls along the stem. Flowers appear in spring from March to May. The species originates from southern Siberia through to Japan.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Fritillaria verticillata
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 verticillata thunbergii of gardens is a bulbous perennial in the Liliaceae, native from southern Siberia to Japan. It grows to roughly 0.6 m and bears nodding, bell-shaped spring flowers that are best appreciated at close range during their short season, from March to May. Give the bulbs a sunny site in sandy or loamy, well-drained soil; they will also tolerate moist but well-drained conditions. In UK hardiness terms the plants are H7 (fully hardy) and fall within USDA zones 4–8, so they withstand typical winter cold across most of the country when sited where soil drains freely. At around 0.6 m the whorled fritillary suits the middle of a sunny border or a free-draining, open bed where its spring display can be seen without being swamped by later foliage. Handle the bulbs with care: they are ornamental and not for consumption, and gloves and other protective equipment should be used when handling. Pets should not eat the bulbs; consult the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for contact numbers and further advice. Expect a brief but distinctive display of nodding flowers each March to May.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Fritillaria
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Fritillaria verticillata thunbergii of gardens size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Bulbous perennial
- Height
- 0.6 m
- Native to
- S Siberia to Japan
- 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 verticillata thunbergii of gardens
- Propagation
- By seed, by bulb offsets
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Fritillaria verticillata thunbergii of gardens?
Fritillaria verticillata thunbergii of gardens prefers full sun.
What soil does Fritillaria verticillata thunbergii of gardens need?
Fritillaria verticillata thunbergii of gardens grows best in sandy and loamy soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.
How big does Fritillaria verticillata thunbergii of gardens grow?
Fritillaria verticillata thunbergii of gardens reaches a height of 0.6 m.
Is Fritillaria verticillata thunbergii of gardens hardy in the UK?
Fritillaria verticillata thunbergii of gardens has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Fritillaria verticillata thunbergii of gardens?
By seed, by bulb offsets.
Is Fritillaria verticillata thunbergii of gardens 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