Hi Guys. Now that we're full-on into spring, it's getting more difficult to choose just one plant to feature each week. I contemplated between Fritillaria, Clematis alpina 'Constance' and Lathyrus vernus 'Albo Roseus'. The latter two will wait but the Frits probably won't, especially if they get pummeled by more hail, so this week I'll feature them.
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| Fritillaria meleagris in my woodland garden |
Fritillaria are small, fall-planted bulbs--one of the "minor bulbs" if you will. They require a good winter chill in order to bloom. There are many species of Fritillaria. We're talking about probably the most common one here, Fritillaria meleagris.
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| Fritillaria above a carpet of Oxalis oregana |
There are common names, like Snake's Head Fritillary, Checkered Lilies and a bunch more you can read about here. But I think Fritillaria rolls off the tongue just fine so I call them that, or Frits for short.
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| Isn't that the cutest little checkered lantern? |
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| This white one is cute too, yes? It is called Fritillaria meleagris alba. |
A few years ago it was easy to purchase Fritillaria bulbs at WinCo grocery store. Twice a year--late summer and late winter--they have a huge display of inexpensive yet quality bulbs for sale.
However, in the past few years Fritillaria have not been included as an option. Maybe they will have them again this fall. If they do, I'm going to grab about six boxes!
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| Fritillaria uva-vulpis |
I also have a small clump of Fritillaria uva-vulpis growing in another section of my garden. I bought these in a four inch pot from a roadside stand several years ago. They haven't increased much but they bloom reliably and make me happy.
And that is my plant of the week. I hope you're enjoying these segments. Thank you to all of you who take the time to comment. I love you. Stay safe and stay home.
Such a beautiful flower, albeit one I don't have the slightest chance of growing in my part of the country. Best wishes Grace.
ReplyDeleteYes, too many bloomers to pick just one this time of year. Fritillarias are definitely worthy. Yours are lovely!
ReplyDeleteHi Gracie .. hope all is well with you and your family (despite you know who in the white house and his minions ? LOL) .. I think I like the name "Checkered Lantern" the best ;-) .. they are very pretty amongst all that oxalis , they actually do look like a lantern guiding people through all this greenery.
ReplyDeleteMy garden is still in hibernation ..mostly allium greenery and hellebore flower buds showing their faces .. but, I know I always have to be patient this time of year .. it seems to take forever and then BAM ! it is crazy .. just the way we run here .. take good care and keep safe !
Minor bulb with major impact! I love how you have them growing out of a carpet of oxalis. That's just lovely!
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