Fritillaria ‘Orange Beauty’

There are many forms of fritillary, and Fritillaria imperialis is bar far the most theatrical species. And, of the many forms, one of the newest—and most impressive—is Fritillaria imperialis ‘Orange Beauty’! Its chunky stems are stained copper-brown, and also under the enormous spring flowerheads. These flowers are rich, intense, burnt orange to brick-red. The bells are downward-facing, and in the centre of each flower are long, powdery cream stamens. It is a strong plant, with shiny green foliage and punk-like topknot of leafy bracts, both of which catch and reflect the light. It flowers a little earlier than Fritillaria imperialis ‘Rubra’.  

Plant your bulbs in autumn, around 25cm deep, in well-drained soil, and then just leave them. They will happily naturalise in sun or part shade. Incidentally, a mass planting of them will provide an impact of tropical colour that is bound to give your neighbours something to talk about! 

Unusual and exotic looking, and originally from Turkey, Fritillaria imperialis (more commonly known as Crown Imperials) make excellent cut flowers too—and ‘Orange Beauty’ is no different.