Pack of 25 bulbs

shipping time : Late September to Late October

Fritillaria meleagris

Fritillaria meleagris is one of spring’s most enchanting sights—delicate, nodding bells patterned with an intricate chequerboard of deep mauve and soft purple, or, more rarely, in pure white. Each bloom seems almost painted by hand, as if a medieval manuscript had come to life in the garden. They are modest plants, slender and fine-stemmed, yet their presence is unforgettable—ethereal, otherworldly, and quietly full of character.

These fritillaries flower in mid-spring, rising to 20–30 cm (8–12 in), and look most at home in naturalistic plantings. They thrive where the ground stays reliably moist in spring, such as in damp meadows, at the edge of woodland, or by a stream. Left undisturbed, they will gently naturalize, forming ever larger drifts that appear like a scatter of jewels through the grass.

Position: Best in full sun or light shade, in soil that remains moist in spring but drains well in summer. Ideal for naturalizing in grass, under deciduous trees, or in borders where their subtle beauty can be appreciated up close.

How to Plant & Grow Fritillaria meleagris Mixed

Quick Planting Guide

Planting time: Fall, before the ground freezes
Soil: Moist, humus-rich, well-draining (prefers not to dry out in spring)
Depth & spacing: 3–4" deep, 3–4" apart
Light: Full sun to partial shade (especially under open trees)
Bloom: Mid–spring (April–May)

Step-by-Step Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the bulbs
Snake’s head fritillary bulbs are small and delicate.
Plant as soon as possible after purchase — they dry out quickly if left unplanted.

2. Choose the planting site
These bulbs thrive in moist, humus-rich soils that don’t dry out too early in spring.
They’re ideal for naturalizing in meadows, lawns, or light woodland edges.
If soil is heavy clay, improve with compost and sharp sand to prevent waterlogging in winter.

3. Plant the bulbs
Plant 3–4" deep and 3–4" apart in groups of 5–10 for a natural look.
Pointed side faces upward; if unsure, plant sideways.
Water well after planting.

4. Growing on & care

• Watering: Keep soil evenly moist during growth and bloom. They prefer consistent spring moisture but not standing water.

• Feeding: Add compost or a balanced bulb fertilizer in early spring.

• Mulching: A thin layer of leaf mold or compost helps maintain soil moisture and mimics their natural woodland habitat.

5. Bloom time
‘Alba’ produces graceful, nodding, pure white bells in mid–spring (April–May), standing 8–12" tall. Flowers sway beautifully in the breeze and mix well with the checkered purple form.

6. After flowering
Leave foliage to die back naturally — it feeds the bulb for next year.
Avoid mowing or cutting back until leaves have yellowed.
Once established, bulbs will self-seed and naturalize over time, creating larger drifts each year.

Tips for Success

• Plant in informal drifts for the most natural effect.

• Combine with other moisture-loving spring bulbs like camassia, narcissus, or muscari.

• Great for wildflower-style gardens, damp meadows, or under deciduous trees.