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Description
Fritillaria Persica is a bulbous perennial plant native to the Middle East and southwestern Asia. It is commonly known as the Persian Lily, due to its tall, elegant stems and bell-shaped flowers that resemble lilies. The plant blooms in late winter to early spring, producing striking purple and black flowers that are highly fragrant. It grows up to 3 feet tall and 6 inches wide and is highly prized for its unique appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Angiosperms |
| Class: | Monocots |
| Order: | Liliales |
| Family: | Liliaceae |
| Genus: | Fritillaria |
Appearance
Fritillaria Persica has a unique appearance, with tall, slender stems that can grow up to 3 feet tall. The stems are topped with bell-shaped flowers that are purple and black in color, and highly fragrant. The leaves are long and narrow, with a blue-green color, and grow up to 6 inches in length. The plant’s bulbs are large, rounded, and covered with a papery layer. Fritillaria Persica is a striking addition to any garden or landscape.
Care Guide
Fritillaria Persica is a relatively easy plant to care for, as long as its basic needs are met. Here are some tips for caring for Fritillaria Persica:- Water: Fritillaria Persica prefers well-draining soil that is kept moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but reduce watering during the dormant season.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.- Soil: Fritillaria Persica prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH of 6.0-6.5.- Sunlight: Fritillaria Persica prefers full sun to partial shade. Plant the bulbs in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: Fritillaria Persica is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Fritillaria Persica is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to the following:- Botrytis: a fungal disease that causes gray mold on the foliage and flowers. Remove infected plant parts and apply a fungicide.- Bulb mites: tiny pests that feed on the bulbs and cause them to rot. Remove infected bulbs and apply a pesticide.
Habitat
Fritillaria Persica is native to the Middle East and southwestern Asia, where it grows in rocky, mountainous areas. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-8 and can be grown in a variety of locations, including gardens, borders, and rock gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the meaning behind the name Fritillaria?
A: The name Fritillaria comes from the Latin word “fritillus,” which means dice box. This refers to the checkered pattern on the flowers of some species of Fritillaria.
Q: Is Fritillaria Persica toxic to animals?
A: Yes, Fritillaria Persica is toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. Ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms. Keep the plant out of reach of pets and children.
Q: Can Fritillaria Persica be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Fritillaria Persica can be grown indoors in a pot with well-draining soil. Place the pot in a location that receives bright, indirect sunlight.
Q: When should I plant Fritillaria Persica bulbs?
A: Fritillaria Persica bulbs should be planted in the fall, before the first frost. Plant them 4-6 inches deep and 6-8 inches apart.
Related Plants
– Fritillaria meleagris (Snake’s Head Fritillary)- Fritillaria imperialis (Crown Imperial)- Fritillaria michailovskyi (Michael’s Fritillary)- Fritillaria raddeana (Radde’s Fritillary)- Fritillaria recurva (Recurved Fritillary)
References
– “Fritillaria persica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c605- “Fritillaria persica.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/19152/fritillaria-persica/details- “Fritillaria persica.” PlantFiles. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/1427/
