Fritillaria 'Imperialis Rubra' (Crown Imperial)

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The distinctive musky or "foxy" scent of the bulb is a natural deterrent to squirrels, mice, and other rodents, making Crown Imperials a great choice for gardens where these pests are a problem.

The classic red Crown Imperial, 'Rubra' is a truly majestic and architectural plant that commands attention. It produces a tall, thick, powerful stem topped with a spectacular whorl of large, nodding, bell-shaped flowers. The blooms are a vibrant shade of orange-red to deep scarlet, and they hang beneath a pineapple-like crown of glossy green leaves. It is a fantastic choice for adding height, drama, and a touch of the exotic to the back of a sunny border. While the bulbs have a distinct foxy odour that repels rodents, the flowers themselves are a stunning sight in the early to mid-spring garden.

Botanical name Fritillaria imperialis 'Rubra'
Bulb size 20/24 cm
Height 90-100 cm
Spread 20-30 cm
Plant spacing 25 bulbs per m²
Habit Upright, stately
Life cycle Perennial
Hardiness Fully hardy (H6)
Sunlight Full sun, Partial shade
Suitable for Back of borders, Formal gardens
Soil Well-drained, fertile

Where to Plant:

This is the classic Red Crown Imperial, a truly regal plant that brings drama and height to the spring garden. It produces a striking whorl of deep reddish-orange, bell-shaped flowers. For it to perform reliably, a position in full sun is essential, along with fertile, very well-drained soil. It needs a good baking in summer to initiate the following year's flowers, so place it in a warm, dry, sunny border where it will not be overshadowed.

How to Plant:

The large, pungent bulbs should be planted in early autumn. The most important rule for success is to plant the bulb on its side. This prevents the hollow, where the old stem was, from collecting water and rotting the bulb during the winter. Dig a hole around 20-25cm (8-10 inches) deep, place a handful of grit in the bottom, and lay the bulb on its side before backfilling with soil. Space bulbs at least 30cm apart to give them room to mature.

Aftercare:

After flowering, it is vital to allow the foliage to die back completely and naturally. This is when the bulb recharges its energy for next year. Do not cut it back prematurely. The tall stems are usually sturdy but may appreciate the support of a stake in very windy gardens. There is no need to water them over the summer; a dry dormancy is beneficial.

Planting and Flowering Calendar

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Key Features

Packed in paper

Packed peat-free

Great for Shade

Rodent resistant

Fritillaria 'Imperialis Rubra' - Harding & Bloom

Fritillaria 'Imperialis Rubra' (Crown Imperial)

£4.49

£4.49

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Kind Words from Our Gardeners

Arrived quickly and well-packaged. Planted them in some pots on the patio and they all came up. Look beautiful. Thank you!

Careane Wallace

Oxfordshire, UK

The bulbs arrived beautifully packaged and you could just tell they were excellent quality. We had the most wonderful display of daffodils this spring on our patio. Simply stunning. Will definitely be ordering again

David P

Kent, UK

I ordered the mixed hyacinth collection and the scent in my garden this April was absolutely heavenly. Every single bulb produced a strong, beautiful flower and the colours were stunning together. A fantastic purchase, I'll be back for more next year!

Eleanor R

Somerset