Fritillaria is one of the most unique flower bulbs for the spring. The bloom period lasts about three weeks, starting in late spring.
The name is derived from the Latin term for a dice-box (fritillus), and probably refers to the checkered pattern on some of the flowers. They often have nodding, bell or cup-shaped flowers, and the majority are spring-flowering. Most species' flowers have a rather disagreeable scent, but the odor scares away mice, moles and other rodents!
Plant Fritillaria immediately after acquiring the bulbs. They prefer sun to partial sun and well drained soil. Fritillaria should to be kept in the ground and not dug up in the fall. After flowering and complete drying of the leaves, the stems should be cut off just above the ground.
Fritillaria Red a Crown Imperial Fritillaria, is a fall planted bulb. The impressive Crown Imperial has a bundle of red bell-like flowers all around the stem and a whimsical crown of green leaves. The pendulous flowers make a bold statement in the garden from May until June.
Fritillaria Fox's Grape has brownish-purple bell shaped flowers with yellow margins. A fall planted bulb, it is ideal for the garden border from April until May.