Alphabetical Plant Listing

Fritillaria Varieties

Fritillaria imperialis (Crown Imperial), Fritillaria persica (Persian Bell), Fritillaria meleagris (Snake's Head Fritillaria) (Fritillaria)


The genus Fritillaria consists of almost 100 species. All of these are found in the northern hemisphere, with the main habitats being the areas around the Mediterranean. Only a limited number are being cultivated, but interest in this genus is very much on the rise. All of them exhibit bell-shaped flowers, generally hanging downwards from the top of upright stems which bear narrow leaves. Often odd looking, the blossoms sometimes unusually colored and mottled.

  • Easy to grow, most Fritillaries are dramatic looking and deter the hungriest critters, including deer and rabbit.
  • They grow from 6 in. to 4 ft. tall (15-120 cm).
  • Plant in fall in a full sun or part shade area in organically rich, moist but well-drained soil for best results. The soil must drain quickly and thoroughly. All appreciate some winter chill and tend to perform poorly where summers are hot and dry. Reduce watering as foliage dies back in summer.
  • Spectacular in groupings in beds and borders or naturalized areas. The small varieties are terrific additions to rock gardens.

Guide Information

Hardiness 4 - 8
Plant Type Bulbs
Plant Family Fritillaria
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Spring
Height 6" - 4' (15cm - 120cm)
Spread 3" - 8" (7cm - 20cm)
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Well-Drained
Characteristics Showy
Tolerance Deer, Rabbit
Landscaping Ideas Beds and Borders
Garden Styles City and Courtyard, Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage, Prairie and Meadow, Traditional Garden

rob3rt82 / 123RF Banque d'images

While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.

Guide Information

Hardiness 4 - 8
Plant Type Bulbs
Plant Family Fritillaria
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Spring
Height 6" - 4' (15cm - 120cm)
Spread 3" - 8" (7cm - 20cm)
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Well-Drained
Characteristics Showy
Tolerance Deer, Rabbit
Landscaping Ideas Beds and Borders
Garden Styles City and Courtyard, Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage, Prairie and Meadow, Traditional Garden
Not sure which Fritillaria to pick?
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