|
Easter
was extremely early this year. Some of the plants
that we associate with
welcoming in the Spring were not ready with
our growers.
A few weeks on however, the most beautiful, fresh
perennials have arrived on our doorstep this week.
A burst of orange citrus has punctuated the sea
of evergreen shrubs and is raising the temperature
with a mood of 'Carnival.' The Fritillaria imperialis
, Crown Imperial, is an imposing plant. It carries
a ring of large, bell-shaped flowers which later form
attractive seed heads.
The Crown Imperial or Kaiser's Crown is a stately
plant which likes to attract all of the attention.
It should be planted in between perennials which flower
later in the season. Fritillaria also is at its most
eye catching when planted on mass in drifts, standing
to attention like a battalion of orange soldiers.
While the wild form is usually orange-red, various
colours are found in cultivation, ranging from scarlet
to oranges and yellows. The pendulous flowers make
a bold statement in the late spring garden flowering
in April and May.
Fritillaria imperialis requires full sun for best
growth and sandy, well-drained soil for longevity.
After flowering and complete drying of the leaves,
the stems should be cut off to just above the ground.
Also, please take their height into consideration
and provide shelter from strong winds.
If your borders need some height and strong colour,
Fritillaria really is a statuesque, sizzling,
sensuous senorita. It is bold and gregarious. And
certainly not for the faint hearted!!
Please
check out our Shrubs & Groundcover Catalogue for
available sizes and prices. |
