Persian fritillary

Persian fritillary (*Fritillaria persica*), also called Persian lily, is a tall bulbous perennial with upright stems and glaucous gray-green leaves. In spring it carries clusters of pendant, narrow bells in brown to deep-purple shades; the RHS lists a mature height of 0.5–1 m and spread of 0.1–0.5 m ([RHS plant profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/7423/fritillaria-persica/details)). ## Siting and seasonal display Plant the bulbs in full sun and fertile, well-drained soil. The RHS lists chalk, loam, and sand as suitable soil types and notes that this species tolerates hotter sites than some other fritillaries. Its upright flower stems add height to a spring border, and it can also be grown in a patio container with free-draining mix. ## Maintenance No routine pruning is needed. Divide offsets in late summer to increase the planting; seed requires a cold period before germination. Keep the bulb in well-drained ground so it is not left sitting in wet soil.