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Description
Fritillaria Meleagris, commonly known as Snake’s Head Fritillary, is a flowering plant native to Europe and parts of Asia. It belongs to the Liliaceae family and is a bulbous perennial. The flowers of Fritillaria Meleagris are typically bell-shaped with a distinctive checkerboard pattern of purple and white petals. The plant can reach a height of up to 40 cm and blooms in the spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Liliales |
| Family | Liliaceae |
| Genus | Fritillaria |
Appearance
The flowers of Fritillaria Meleagris are the main attraction of this plant. They are typically bell-shaped and droopy, with six petals arranged in a checkerboard pattern of purple and white. The leaves of the plant are linear and have a grey-green color. The stems can reach up to 40 cm in height and are usually unbranched. The bulbs of Fritillaria Meleagris are small and round, with a yellowish color.
Care Guide
Water: Fritillaria Meleagris prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering as this can lead to bulb rot.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the fall with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing during the growing season.
Soil: Fritillaria Meleagris prefers rich, well-drained soil. The plant can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil.
Sunlight: Fritillaria Meleagris prefers partial shade to full sun. In hot climates, the plant may benefit from some afternoon shade.
Hardiness Zones: Fritillaria Meleagris is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Fritillaria Meleagris is generally not prone to pests or diseases. However, the plant can be susceptible to bulb rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soil. Aphids and slugs may also occasionally feed on the plant.
Habitat
Fritillaria Meleagris is native to Europe and parts of Asia. It grows in meadows, grasslands, and along riverbanks. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Fritillaria Meleagris be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Fritillaria Meleagris can be grown in containers, but make sure the container has good drainage and the soil is kept moist but not waterlogged.
Q: When should I plant Fritillaria Meleagris bulbs?
A: Plant Fritillaria Meleagris bulbs in the fall, before the first frost. The bulbs need a period of cold dormancy before they will bloom.
Q: How long do Fritillaria Meleagris flowers last?
A: Fritillaria Meleagris flowers typically last for 2-3 weeks.
Q: Is Fritillaria Meleagris deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Fritillaria Meleagris is considered deer-resistant.
Related Plants
- Fritillaria Aurea
- Fritillaria Imperialis
- Fritillaria Persica
- Fritillaria Uva-Vulpis
References
- “Fritillaria Meleagris.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/18399/Fritillaria-meleagris/Details. Accessed 20 May 2021.
- “Snake’s Head Fritillary.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b673. Accessed 20 May 2021.
- “Fritillaria Meleagris.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/fritillaria/fritillaria-meleagris-info.htm. Accessed 20 May 2021.
