
(Fritillaria imperialis)

Crown imperial, Imperial fritillary, Kaiser's crown, Turban lily
Fritillaria imperialis is a species of flowering plant in the lily family. It is native to mountainous regions of central Asia, from Turkey to Afghanistan. The plant produces a tall stem topped by a whorl of bright orange or yellow flowers, which are bell-shaped and hang downwards. The bulbs of the plant are large and edible, and have been used in traditional medicine.
24-36 inches (60-90 cm)
Crown imperial plants prefer full sun to partial shade. They can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause the stems to become weak and floppy.
Crown imperial plants prefer moderate humidity levels, around 50-60%. They can tolerate lower humidity levels, but may require more frequent watering.
Crown imperial plants do not require regular fertilization, but can benefit from a balanced fertilizer applied in early spring.
Crown imperial plants do not require pruning, but the stems can be cut back after flowering to prevent them from becoming too leggy.
Common pests for crown imperial plants include slugs, snails, and bulb mites. Diseases can include bulb rot and fungal infections.
12-24 inches (30-60 cm)
Crown imperial plants require regular watering during the growing season, but should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings. During the dormant period, the bulbs should be kept dry.
Crown imperial plants prefer cool to moderate temperatures, around 60-70°F (15-21°C). They can tolerate higher temperatures, but may require more frequent watering.
Crown imperial plants grow in the spring and summer months.
Crown imperial plants are moderately difficult to grow, as they require specific conditions and can be susceptible to pests and diseases.
Crown imperial plants are hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
The Crown imperial plant gets its name from the Latin word 'imperialis', which means 'belonging to an emperor'. It is said to have been a favorite of the Holy Roman Emperor, Maximilian I.