Fritillaria persica Crown Imperial Bulbs

Plant Fritillaria persica bulbs before the first frost in fall, and in mid-spring each bulb produces a 30-inch spike with linear grey-green leaves that features up to 30 bell-shaped pendant flowers. An heirloom variety, Fritillaria persica is known and grown for the exotic elegance its distinctive grey-green to plum-purple (blackish) blooms exude. Nectar-rich, the dramatic flowers draw attention and entice pollinators to the garden, including bees and butterflies; but they also make excellent cut flowers, adding a truly modern flare to floral displays.

This Fritillaria persica species, commonly called Persian lily or Persian fritillary, is native to Israel, Jordan, Iran, Syria, and Turkey. A bulbous perennial with an upright habit, it creates a stunning specimen. But Persian lilies create the most curb appeal and vertical interest when clustered or grouped in garden beds or borders, and the bulbs multiply well, so in optimal conditions, the displays slowly spread, getting bigger and better over time. But they can also be grown in large containers.

Plant Persian lily bulbs 8 inches apart and 5 to 6 inches deep, setting them at a 45-degree angle so that water doesn't sit in the bulbs' stem hole. Water well to settle bulbs, and feed them with a well-balanced fertilizer. Place bulbs in a sunny to partially shady spot with medium moist, freely draining soil. Allow foliage to die naturally and remove only after fully wilting. Leaves continue to absorb nourishment that feeds the bulb, which aids future growth and blooming. Persian lily is cold hardy to Zone 4 and deer resistant.

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