Special Web Offer - Get 50% OFF!
Grab Your Deal Now
PlantSnap
Plant Care
Snakeshead
(Fritillaria meleagris)
Also Known As
Snakeshead, Snake's head fritillary, Checkered lily, Leper lily, Fritillary
About This Plant
Fritillaria meleagris, commonly known as the Snake's Head Fritillary, is a bulbous herbaceous perennial plant species that belongs to the Liliaceae family. The plant grows up to 40 cm tall and produces a bell-shaped flower with a distinctive checkerboard pattern of purple and white petals. The leaves are narrow and gray-green in color.
Plant Care Instructions
Outdoor Size Range
12-16 inches (30-40 cm)
Light Requirements
Fritillaria meleagris prefers partial shade to full sun, but it can tolerate full shade. Direct sunlight may cause the flowers to fade quickly.
Humidity Needs
Fritillaria meleagris prefers moderate humidity levels, but it can tolerate dry air.
Fertilizing Schedule
The plant does not require regular fertilization. However, a balanced fertilizer can be applied during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
Pruning Guidelines
After the flowers have faded, the plant can be left to die back naturally. Dead leaves can be removed to maintain appearance.
Common Pests and Diseases
Fritillaria meleagris is generally pest-free, but it can be susceptible to bulb rot if the soil is too wet.
Indoor Size Range
N/A
Watering Schedule
The plant requires moderate watering, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, water the plant regularly, but reduce watering during the dormant season.
Temperature Range
The plant prefers cool temperatures between 50-68°F (10-20°C). It can tolerate frost, but it may not survive in hot temperatures.
Growing Season
The plant grows in the spring and goes dormant during the summer.
Growing Difficulty Level
Fritillaria meleagris is moderately difficult to grow. It requires specific soil and temperature conditions and may not thrive in certain environments.
USDA Hardiness Zones
4-8
Did You Know?
Fritillaria meleagris is also known as the 'Chess Flower' because of its distinctive checkerboard pattern.
