Crown Imperial (Fritillaria imperialis): Regal Spring Bulbs with Bell-Shaped Flowers

Crown imperial (Fritillaria imperialis) draws attention with striking gaiety of color and form. Large bell-shaped flowers in orange, yellow, and red dangle from tufts of shiny green leaf bracts atop sturdy 3-foot stalks.

Culture & Propagation

Needs fertile, well-drained soil in full sun. Plant at four times bulb depth. Hollow-centered bulbs do best planted on their sides surrounded by sharp sand. Sow seed in cold frame fall, provide winter cold treatment, move to cool greenhouse. Divide offsets in late summer.

Problems

Rust, leaf spot.

Quick Reference

• Height: 1–3 ft.
• Spread: 6–12 in.
• Growth Habit: Clumps
• Growth Pace: Moderate
• Light: Full sun only
• Moisture: Medium
• Maintenance: Moderate
• Bloom Time: Spring
• Flower Colors: Orange, red, salmon, yellow
• Uses: Beds, borders, containers, cut flowers, specimen, cottage gardens