Crown Imperial
Plant of the week for 28 September 2007
The Crown Imperial is a member of the Fritillaria family and like so many of our bulbous plants finds its origin in the Middle East in places such as Afghanistan, Pakistan and Turkey. The modern hybrids make superb garden plants and provide an imposing display. The plants bear a whorl of large pendulous bells topped by a crown of small leaves, hence the name.
One of the newest varieties is Garland Star. It has brilliant orange red bells which make an excellent combination with the dark stem and light green glossy foliage.
Crown Imperials are easy to grow. They require a well drained soil and a sunny or lightly shaded position. Bulbs should be planted at a depth of 15cm. and laid on their side to prevent water standing in the depression at the top of the bulb. To encourage flowering in years to come apply a top dressing of sulphate of potash in early Spring and Autumn. When clumps become congested lift and replant as soon as the plants have died down as they make their new brittle roots very early.
A fine companion to these majestic plants is Fritillaria persica. It has lovely plum coloured bells loosely spaced on a 90cm. stem. It flowers at the same time and has similar cultural requirements to the Crown Imperials.
[Photo: Crown Imperial Garland Star] Garland Star
Visit the Crown Imperial section of our on-line shop.
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