Fritillaria 'Persica' (Persian Lily) XXL

3 bulbs
£7.89
£2.63 each
6 bulbs
£20.49
£3.42 each

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Fritillaria persica is native to a wide area of the Middle East, including Iran (formerly Persia), Turkey, and Jordan. It has been cultivated in European gardens since the 16th century.

A particularly robust and impressive selection of the Persian Lily, 'Persica XXL' is chosen for its ability to produce exceptionally tall, strong stems and a magnificent, elongated spire of flowers. Each towering stem can be packed with up to 50 nodding, bell-shaped blooms. The flowers are a beautiful and sophisticated shade of dusky, smoky, plum-purple, often with a silvery bloom on the outside. The 'XXL' designation indicates that these are typically larger bulbs that produce more vigorous, taller, and more floriferous spikes than the standard species, making for an even more dramatic and architectural garden statement. This variety is perfect for adding height, drama, and moody colour to the back of a sunny border.

Botanical name Fritillaria persica (XXL selection)
Flower type Persian Lily
Bulb size 20/+ cm
Height 90-120 cm
Spread 20-30 cm
Spacing 1 bulb per 30 cm²
Hardiness Fully Hardy
Sunlight Full Sun
Suitable for Borders, Architectural Plantings, Gravel Gardens

Where to Plant:

Commonly known as the Persian Lily, this is a truly dramatic and stately plant, producing a very tall, impressive spire crowded with dozens of dusky, plum-purple, bell-shaped flowers. To succeed, it must have a position in full sun and very sharp, free-draining soil. It needs a long, hot, dry period in summer when the bulb is dormant to ripen it for the following year's display. It is a magnificent statement plant for a sheltered gravel garden or a warm, sunny border against a wall.

How to Plant:

Plant the large bulbs in the autumn. Deep planting is recommended to support the tall flower spike. Dig a hole and plant the bulb at a depth of around 20cm (8 inches). It is a good practice to add a generous layer of horticultural grit at the base of the hole to guarantee excellent drainage right around the bulb. Space the bulbs at least 30cm apart to give their impressive stature room to shine.

Aftercare:

After flowering, allow the handsome, grey-green foliage to wither and die back completely. Do not be tempted to water the area during the summer; a dry dormancy is essential for its survival and future flowering. The very tall flower spikes may require the support of a stake, especially in more exposed gardens. This is a spectacular plant that rewards a little care in its placement with an unforgettable display.

Planting and Flowering Calendar

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Key Features

Packed in paper

Packed peat-free

Great for Shade

Good for cutting

Naturalising

Fritillaria 'Persica' (Persian Lily) XXL - Harding & Bloom

Fritillaria 'Persica' (Persian Lily) XXL

£7.89

£7.89

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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