FRITILLARIA IMPERIALIS

THE crown imperial is a whopper of a bulb. In ideal conditions, a mature plant will tower to 1.5m, carrying clusters of large, hanging flowers on thick stems. A curious topknot of grassy foliage grows above the flowers. If you turn up one of the orange or yellow blooms, you’ll notice six pearl-like nectaries arranged around the bases of the stamens. Majestic, rather than winsome, these are the most dramatic of spring bulbs. Plant crown imperials in full sun. They’re hardy, droughttolerant and benefit from sharply draining soil. The bulbs have a foxy odour, so plant away from windows.