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Description
Fritillaria Imperialis Rubra, also known as the Crown Imperial or Kaiser’s Crown, is a flowering plant native to the Middle East and southwestern Asia. It belongs to the family Liliaceae and is prized for its showy, bell-shaped flowers that bloom in shades of red, yellow, and orange.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Liliales |
| Family | Liliaceae |
| Genus | Fritillaria |
Appearance
The Fritillaria Imperialis Rubra grows up to 1 meter tall and wide, with a tall stem covered in narrow, green leaves. The flowers are clustered at the top of the stem and are bell-shaped, with six petals that curve outwards. They are usually red, but can also be yellow or orange, and have a distinctive, musky scent. The plant blooms in late spring and early summer.
Care Guide
The Fritillaria Imperialis Rubra requires well-drained soil and full sunlight to grow. It should be planted in the fall, about 8 inches deep and 12 inches apart. The plant should be watered regularly, but not excessively, and fertilized once a month during the growing season. It is hardy in USDA zones 5-9, but should be protected from extreme cold and wet conditions.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Fritillaria Imperialis Rubra is susceptible to bulb rot caused by wet soil conditions. It may also be attacked by aphids, slugs, and snails. To prevent bulb rot, make sure the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering. To prevent pest infestations, use insecticidal soap or remove pests by hand.
Habitat
The Fritillaria Imperialis Rubra is native to the Middle East and southwestern Asia, where it grows in rocky, mountainous areas and in open woodlands. It has been cultivated in Europe since the 16th century and is now widely grown in gardens and parks.
Question and Answer
Q: When should I plant Fritillaria Imperialis Rubra bulbs?
A: The bulbs should be planted in the fall, before the first frost.
Q: How often should I water Fritillaria Imperialis Rubra?
A: The plant should be watered regularly, but not excessively. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Fritillaria Imperialis Rubra?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Q: Can Fritillaria Imperialis Rubra be grown in pots?
A: Yes, but make sure the pot is deep enough to accommodate the long stem and the bulb is planted at the appropriate depth.
Related Plants
- Fritillaria Meleagris
- Fritillaria Michailovskyi
- Fritillaria Persica
- Fritillaria Uva-Vulpis
References
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/fritillaria-imperialis-crown-imperial
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/7522/Fritillaria-imperialis/Details
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/fritillaria/growing-fritillaria-imperialis.htm
