Naturalized in Japan and parts of China, Fritillaria thunbergii (Thunberg Fritillary) is a graceful bulbous perennial forming a clump of tall slender stems with whorls of narrow leaves. The upper leaves form tendrils that will twine around any suitable support. In mid to late spring, lax racemes of nodding, bell-shaped, creamy-yellow flowers, 1 in. long (2.5 cm), adorned with purple or purplish brown spots or squares are borne in the upper axils and stem tips. Widely cultivated, this Fritillaria species has been grown commercially as a medicine in China for 700 years. The bulbs are used to treat coughs and other respiratory problems. Thunberg Fritillary is easily grown in partially shaded sites, such as under deciduous shrubs or small trees where it will colonize readily.

• Grows up to 24 in. tall (60 cm).
• Plant in fall in full sun or partial shade in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil for best results. Intolerant of wet when dormant.
• Charming in groupings in containers or rock gardens.
• Deer and rabbit resistant.
• Propagate from seed, sown in pots in a cold frame in autumn. Needs exposure to winter cold for germination in spring. Divide offsets in late summer