Fritillaria meleagris
A striking spring‑flowering perennial with nodding, bell‑shaped blooms patterned in a distinctive purple‑and‑white chequerboard. Thrives in damp meadows and lightly shaded borders, adding an almost otherworldly elegance. Looks lovely paired with primrose or meadow cranesbill in a cool, moist patch.
🌿 Size: 6–12 inches tall
🌿 Spreading habit: Spreads slowly by bulbs and gentle self‑seeding; very well behaved
🌿 Sun needs: Partial shade, Full shade
🌿 Pet & Child friendliness: Unsafe* (bulbs and plant parts toxic if eaten)
🌿 Pollen Level: Low
Care: Prefers moist, loamy to light clay soil and thrives in damp meadows, boggy borders, and beside ponds; however, it's important to avoid waterlogging. Water during dry spells in spring. Allow foliage to die back naturally after flowering to feed the bulbs. Avoid disturbing established clumps, as they resent being moved. Best planted in groups for a naturalised, meadow‑like effect.
Fun Fact: The chequerboard pattern on the petals is so unusual that early botanists thought it was a printing error in their illustrations.
*Individual sensitivities may vary. Please see our FAQ for more details.