Tommymoo's Garden
Fritillaria Imperialis
Genus: Fritillaria.
Species: Fritillaria imperalis.
17 Jan 2011, 2 bulbs @GBP1.99 (was: 5.99), Cherry Lane Garden Centre.
Common Name: Crown imperial
Genus: Fritillaria
Species: imperalis
Cultivar: 'Maxima Lutea'
Exposure: Full sun, Partial shade
Hardiness: Hardy
Soil type: Well-drained/light, Acidic, Chalky/alkaline, Moist
Height: 150cm
Spread: 45cm
Time to divide plants: August to September
The bulb should be planted very deep - at a depth of least 10 inches (25.4cm)
After they have flowered and the leaves have dried out, the stems should be trimmed off just above the ground.
A striking variety of fritillaria that has been awarded the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit in recognition of its outstanding excellence. Bright yellow flowers rise majestically from the light green foliage and are topped with a crown of green leaf-like bracts, hence the common name, crown imperial. A large clump of these stately plants is an imposing sight, and quite undemanding once the bulbs are established - they may take a season to flower after planting. Efficient drainage is essential, and on the heaviest soils it's a good idea to plant the bulbs sideways in a bed of gravel.
