FRITILARIA

• They were formerly known as Narcissus caperonius or Caperon's Narcissus because they were first brought to England in 1572 by a druggist named Noel Caperon who found them in France.
• In Croatia, firtilaria flower is known as Kockavica and is part of the country's national symbol.
• Occasionally attached to it is Snake's Head Frittillary or Snakehead Lily, because the blossom, before the bud is fully opened, reminds some of a striking cobra.
• They are also known as Guinea Hen Flowers because the checkerboard pattern resembles the patterning on guinea hens.

Growing Fritilarias

• Fritillarias are one of the easiest flowering bulbs to grow since the bulbs multiply year after year.
• Fritillarias are propagated by division of bulbs in autumn. Divide the bulbs in autumn and replant them immediately. Offshoots of the fritillaria bulbs are widely used to propagate these plants.
• Fritillaria prefer a well-drained, loamy soil, but most any garden soil will do.
• Fritillaria will tolerate full sun or part shade.
• A lightly shaded and sheltered area is perfect for growing Fritilarias.
• Plant the bulbs 4 to 5 inches deep and 6 inches apart at a slight angle so that water won't collect in the depression at the top of the bulb.
• Keep in mind when you plan the garden design that fritillarias bloom simultaneously with tulips.

Fritilaria Plant Care

• Fritillaria are relatively care free. They do not demand much care.
• Remove the flower head after the blooms fade and before it goes to seed. Allow the foliage to wither naturally each year in order to replenish the bulbs for the following year's blooms.
• Water the plant regularly and deeply in the spring until after it flowers, then withhold water in the summer.
• Fritillaria is a good choice for areas with dry summers.
• All fritilaria need plenty of fertilizer after they have bloomed to get them to re-bloom the following year.