Plant during the recommended period shown in the variety’s specifications. If you cannot plant straight away, store them somewhere cool, dry and well ventilated.
'Orange Beauty'
crown imperial
There are many forms of fritillary, and Fritillaria imperialis is bar far the most theatrical species. And, of the many forms, one of the newest—and most impressive—is Fritillaria imperialis 'Orange Beauty'! Its chunky stems are stained copper-brown, and also under the enormous spring flowerheads. These flowers are rich, intense, burnt orange to brick-red. The bells are downward-facing, and in the centre of each flower are long, powdery cream stamens. It is a strong plant, with shiny green foliage and punk-like topknot of leafy bracts, both of which catch and reflect the light. It flowers a little earlier than Fritillaria imperialis 'Rubra'.
Plant your bulbs in autumn, around 25cm deep, in well-drained soil, and then just leave them. They will happily naturalise in sun or part shade. Incidentally, a mass planting of them will provide an impact of tropical colour that is bound to give your neighbours something to talk about!
Unusual and exotic looking, and originally from Turkey, Fritillaria imperialis (more commonly known as Crown Imperials) make excellent cut flowers too—and 'Orange Beauty' is no different.
Quantity
Plant profile
Plant calendar
Check whether your varieties prefer sun or shade, then choose a sheltered spot with well-drained soil. Most spring bulbs also grow well in containers.
Remove weeds and loosen compacted soil. Improve heavy ground with organic matter and horticultural grit. For containers, use peat-free multipurpose compost and ensure good drainage.
Plant at the depth recommended for each variety, as their requirements differ. Position shoots or pointed ends upwards. If the correct direction is unclear, plant them on their sides.
Follow the recommended spacing for each variety. Planting in clusters or informal drifts creates a natural display, but avoid placing them directly against one another.
Water after planting if the soil is dry. Keep containers lightly moist but never waterlogged. After flowering, allow foliage to yellow naturally before removing it.
- Botanical name
- Fritillaria imperialis 'Orange Beauty'
- Flower colour
- Orange
- Bulb size
- 20/+
- Established height
- 70cm-1m
- Established spread
- 20-30cm
- Growing skill
- Easy to grow
- Habit
- Upright
- Hardiness
- Fully hardy
- Leaf colour
- Green
- Mouse resistant
- No
- Plant spacing
- 16 bulbs per m2
- Pollinator friendly
- Yes
- Position
- Sheltered
- Rabbit resistant
- Yes
- Scented
- No
- Soil acidity
- Any
- Soil moisture
- Free draining
- Soil type
-
Loam
Loam-based compost
Multipurpose compost
Sandy - Suitable for
-
Borders
Cottage gardens
Cut flower gardens
Large containers
Low maintenance gardens - Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade, Dappled shade
- Toxicity
- No report
- Years to establish
- 1st year
Expert care from
choice to delivery
Our horticulturalists prepare every bulb and plant with the utmost care. From selection to packing, each one receives expert attention before beginning its journey to your garden.