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Liliaceae
Imperial Fritillary
Fritillaria imperialis 'Rubra Maxima'
Supreme confidence and regal strength.
- Family
- Liliaceae
- Genus
- Fritillaria
- Native to
- Turkey, Iran, Afghanistan, Kashmir
- Bloom season
- Spring
- Type
- bulbous perennial
- Height
- 80–120 cm
- Sunlight
- full sun to part shade
- Soil
- fertile, well-drained, sandy loam
- Water
- moderate in growth; dry in dormancy
- Hardiness
- 5–8
- Lifespan
- perennial; long-lived bulb
Did you know
- 'Rubra Maxima' is the largest red-flowered cultivar, with blooms reaching up to 8 cm long.
- Fritillaria imperialis bulbs can weigh up to 500 grams and should be planted on their side to prevent water rot.
- The plant emerges and blooms incredibly fast in spring — going from ground to full flower in just 3–4 weeks.
- Tulip mania records show Fritillaria imperialis bulbs selling for prices comparable to the most expensive tulips.
- The flowers attract early-season pollinators with copious nectar during a period when few other large flowers bloom.
Color meanings
Deep Red
commanding presence
Burnt Orange
fierce nobility