Radde's Fritillary

A more understated and arguably more graceful relative of the Crown Imperial, Fritillaria raddeana is a prized addition to the early spring garden. It produces stout stems topped with a whorl of nodding, bell-shaped flowers in a delicate shade of pale greenish-yellow or straw-yellow. The foliage is a lush, glossy green and emerges early in the year. Reaching a height of about 50-60cm, it is shorter and more compact than F. imperialis, making it less prone to wind damage. It requires very well-drained soil and a sunny, warm position to mimic its native Iranian highlands. It is fully hardy in the UK (H5) but must be kept relatively dry during its summer dormancy to prevent the large bulbs from rotting. Placing the bulb on its side when planting can help prevent water from collecting in the central dip. It provides a sophisticated architectural focal point in a gravel garden or well-drained border.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Gritty, very well-drained soil.

Hardiness: H5 — down to −15°C.

Flowering: Mar, Apr.