Fritillaria imperialis Lutea

Fritillaria imperialis 'Lutea', known as crown imperial, is a delicate fritillary with yellow bell-shaped flowers. It reaches a height of 90cm (35in).

This perennial bears shiny, linear, green leaves. Its stalk displays approximately 5 trailing bell-shaped flowers arranged in a crown. This rigid stem is topped with a plume of dark green, shiny leaves that resemble the foliage at the base.

This fritillary thrives in moist but well-drained soils, even poor ones. The bulb's bug-like scent repels moles but not mice. A gravel bed at planting can provide partial protection against rodents. Growing it in a deep, well-drained pot and keeping it in a cold greenhouse during winter is more suitable for rare species.

Fritillaria Imperialis 'Lutea' looks spectacular in mass plantings with green and white or yellow Viridiflora tulips.