Fritillaria persica
Fritillaria persica
Persian fritillary produces tall spikes of up to 30 nodding plum-purple bell flowers in April and May. The cultivar 'Adiyaman' is the most widely grown. Striking architectural plant for hot dry borders. Needs warm well-drained conditions to thrive. Not for cold wet gardens but magnificent where conditions suit.
Where to plant
Best aspect
Border position
When to plant and expect flowers
Plant
Flowers
How to grow fritillaria persica
Plant 20cm deep in autumn in a warm sheltered spot. Needs sharp drainage and full sun. Add plenty of grit to planting holes. Thrives at the base of a south-facing wall. The cultivar 'Adiyaman' is the most reliable.
Soil requirements
Soil type
sand, loam
Moisture
well drained
pH
neutral, alkaline
Aftercare
Allow foliage to die back naturally after flowering. Remove spent flower heads to prevent self-seeding.
Propagation
- Offsets in autumn
- Seed
Wildlife value
Toxicity
All parts toxic. Contains steroidal alkaloids causing nausea and cardiac irregularities.
Common problems
- Rot in wet soil
- Lily beetle
- Can be short-lived in UK climate
Similar bulbs to grow
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