Fritillaria reuteri

Fritillaria reuteri is a wild fritillary that somewhat resembles F. michailovskyi, but is more floriferous. This cold-resistant species from the Iranian mountains bears a flowering stem in spring adorned with astonishing bell-shaped and pendulous flowers, which are fully open and upturned. They are Bordeaux-red with a yellow border. The bulbs should be planted in well-drained soil that is moist in spring but dry in summer. It will bring an exotic touch to a rockery or gravel bed. You can also create unique pots for the patio using this fritillary.

Fritillaria reuteri belongs to the Liliaceae family. This botanical species is native to western Iran, specifically in a region located north and west of Isfahan, where it is found at altitudes between 2500 and 3000m (8202 and 9842ft). The natural habitat of the species consists of rocky meadows that are humid during flowering, but dry in summer. The plant reaches a height of 15 to 25cm (6 to 10in) when in bloom. It is a perennial herbaceous plant with a bulb that measures 2cm (1in) in diameter. The foliage consists of 3 to 8 bright green, linear-lanceolate leaves, plus 2 leaves at the base of each pedicel. Flowering takes place in April-May. Each floral stem bears 1 to 8 widely campanulate flowers, with brown-violet to reddish petals that are slightly upturned at their tips. The inside of the flower is yellow shaded with brown-red, and yellow stamens dominate the centre. The flowers emit a sweet and curious scent that may not be pleasing. The foliage dries up and disappears in summer, while the bulb enters a dormant state. At this time of year, the soil should be rather dry.

Fritillaria reuteri ideally thrives in sunny locations, in rich, light and very well-drained soil that is dry in summer. It is a highly decorative species that will look stunning in a rockery or a mountain garden. This bulbous plant does not tolerate competition. It naturally pairs well with other spring-flowering bulbs, such as tulips or botanical narcissus. It can also be paired with dwarf or intermediate bearded irises. Beautiful pots can also be created with its bulbs, allowing for close observation of the flowers and protection from excessive moisture in both winter and summer.