This plant has tall spikes topped by hanging, narrow bell-shaped flowers in dramatic dark shades of plum, brown, or black. In many ways it resembles the annual foxglove plant; however, Persian Bells has no spots in the throat of the blossom, and the colour is much deeper. Like other Fritillarias, Persian Bells are normally avoided by deer and rodents. But, unlike the Crown Imperial, Persian Bells has a pleasant sweet fragrance.
| Flowering time: | Mid-spring |
| Plant height: | 1 - 4 feet (30 - 120 cm) |
| Minimum planting depth: | 6" (15 cm) |
| Hardiness zones: | Suitable for zones 4 - 10, but prefers zones 6 - 8 |
| Colours: | Maroon, purple, brownish-purple, greenish-brown; also white |
| Shape/form: | Each plant spike carries from 15 - 30 narrow, bell-shaped florets that alternate on a tall, strong stem. The lance-shaped leaves are an attractive blue-green colour. |
| Alternate names: | Persian Bells, Bells of Persia
Latin name: Fritillaria persica |
| Notes: |
Bulbs should be planted as early in fall as possible because their roots can start to grow inside the packaging; the roots may be easily damaged during planting. Must have shelter from wind, plus lots of warm sunshine, and a rich soil with lots of organic matter (humus), and excellent drainage. Can be difficult to get consistent flowering from year to year; try lifting the bulbs in July, storing them in a warm (over 20° C or 68° F), and replanting in the fall. |
| Example varieties: | Adiyaman (purple), Ivory Bells (white) |
| Persian Bells | Adiyaman | Ivory Bells |
|---|---|---|
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Fritillaria imperialis: Crown Imperial | Fritillaria meleagris: Checkered Lily | Fritillaria persica: Persian Bells
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Last modified: December 2, 2007