Crown imperial (Fritillaria imperialis)

Also known as: Kaiser's crown

The Crown Imperial, also known as Fritillaria imperialis, features majestic clusters of flowers on tall stalks. These bulbs can be used in various settings such as mass plantings, flowerbeds, and containers. Blooming in early spring, their unique skunk-like scent effectively keeps pests at bay.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Crown imperial

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

1 m

Spread

30 cm

Leaf Color

Green White Variegated

Flower Size

4 cm to 5 cm

Flower Color

Orange Yellow Red

Images of Crown imperial

Quickly Identify Crown imperial

Bell-shaped flowers in orange to yellow hues atop a 3-4 feet (90-120 cm) tall stalk.

Fragrant lance-shaped leaves in whorls, up to 6 inches (15 cm) long with wavy margins.

Smooth, tall, and upright stem, reaching up to 4 feet (120 cm) in height.

Flowers with leaf-like bracts, 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) long in orange or red.

Prominent circle of drooping flowers with vibrant colors, blooming mid-spring to early summer.

Scientific Classification of Crown imperial

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Monocotyledons

Order

Lilies, supplejacks and allies

Family

Lily

Genus

Fritillaries

Species

Crown imperial

Planting and Growing of Crown imperial

Care Difficulty

Moderate

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

50-68℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Terracotta

How to Water Crown imperial?

For Fritillaria imperialis, the ideal watering amount is approximately 700 milliliters per session. This amount ensures that the soil is moist but not waterlogged, promoting healthy root development and avoiding rot. It's crucial to let the soil dry out slightly between watering sessions to maintain the right balance of moisture.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Crown imperial? ›

What should I do if my Crown imperial is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Crown imperial? ›

How to save an overwatered Crown imperial? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Crown imperial?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6-8 hours daily

Fritillaria imperialis thrives in full to partial sun environments, with ideal exposure at 6-8 hours daily. Such sunlight boosts photosynthesis, promoting vibrant blooms and a hardy stature.

What is the best location for Fritillaria imperialis? ›

Are there any specific seasons it prefers more light? ›

How can you ensure the plant receives ideal sunlight? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Crown imperial?

Ideal Temperature: 50 ~ 68℉

The ideal temperature range for Fritillaria imperialis is between 50°F to 68°F. This range supports optimal growth and blooming. Within these temperatures, the plant can photosynthesize effectively and maintain healthy metabolism. This range mimics the conditions of its native habitat in the mountains of Turkey and Iran, where temperatures remain moderate.

What Soil is Best for Crown imperial?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Calcareous soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Fritillaria imperialis thrives in well-draining soil, which prevents water from accumulating and causing root rot. A well-aerated environment allows the roots to breathe, promoting healthy growth and vibrant blooms. Ensure the soil mix incorporates amendments like sand or grit to enhance drainage. This plant prefers soil that is rich in organic matter, which provides essential nutrients for robust growth. Incorporating well-rotted compost or manure can boost nutrient levels, supporting the plant’s demands during its active growing season, and contributing to a healthy, lush appearance. While this species tolerates slight drought, maintaining moderately moist soil is ideal for its development. Consistent moisture, without overwatering, ensures the plant receives the hydration it needs without succumbing to water stress, promoting steady and sustained growth.

How to Fertilize Crown imperial?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Fritillaria imperialis, apply liquid fertilizer at a concentration of half strength compared to standard houseplants. Use about 1 teaspoon per quart of water. For granular slow-release fertilizers, apply about 1 tablespoon per bulb, ensuring even distribution around the plant.

How to Prune Crown imperial?

Pruning Time: Autumn

Fritillaria imperialis, known for its striking crown of flowers, requires a careful pruning regimen. After the flowering season in late spring, it's important to allow the plant's foliage to die back naturally, as this helps the bulb store energy for the next blooming season. In autumn, once the leaves are fully yellow or brown, prune them back to ground level.

How to Propagate Crown imperial plant?

Propagate Time: Early spring, Late spring

Collect seeds from the plant after the flowering season when the seed pods are dry but before they open. This ensures that the seeds are mature and viable for planting.

Sow the seeds in a well-draining seed tray with a light covering of soil. Keep the tray in a warm and bright location, ensuring the soil remains slightly moist to aid germination, which can take several weeks.

Carefully dig up the plant during early spring or late spring, separating the offsets from the main bulb. Ensure each division has roots attached, and then replant immediately into prepared soil at a similar depth to where it was growing.

How to Repot Crown imperial plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Fritillaria imperialis should be repotted when you notice roots emerging from the drainage holes, or if the soil becomes compacted. This usually indicates that the plant has outgrown its current pot or is struggling to flourish.

Select a pot that is slightly larger than the current one, with ample drainage holes to prevent waterlogged roots. A clay pot is ideal, as it provides stability and allows for moisture control, promoting a healthy root system.

Opt for a well-draining, sandy soil mix enriched with organic matter. This simulates the plant's natural habitat, ensuring proper drainage and aeration, which are crucial for healthy root development and growth.

Toxicity of Crown imperial

Is Crown imperial toxic to humans?

The crown imperial, similar to many other *Fritillaria* species, poses a significant poisoning risk to humans. Its various parts, particularly the bulb, are laden with harmful alkaloids. In addition to inducing severe gastrointestinal distress, including vomiting and diarrhea, consumption of this plant may lead to decreased blood pressure, muscle cramps, and potential heart failure. It is crucial to ensure this plant is kept out of reach of children and individuals with cognitive impairments.

Is Crown imperial toxic to cat?

Fritillaria imperialis, commonly known as 'Crown imperial', contains a moderate degree of toxicity for cats. If a cat consumes any part of the crown imperial plant, it can result in poisoning. Symptoms of physical distress or illness may appear after ingestion, necessitating urgent care. Cat proprietors should remain attentive to the presence of crown imperial in their surroundings, as every part of this plant poses a risk to felines. If there is any concern that a cat may have ingested crown imperial, it is crucial to seek immediate veterinary assistance to safeguard their health and to initiate suitable treatment.

Is Crown imperial toxic to dog?

Crown imperial presents a moderate toxicity hazard for dogs. Poisoning usually occurs when a dog consumes any part of the plant, which is particularly alarming given that all sections of crown imperial are harmful. Dogs that consume any portion of this plant may show signs such as vomiting, diarrhea, excessive drooling, lethargy, or more severe symptoms depending on the quantity ingested. It is essential for dog owners to keep their pets away from crown imperial and closely observe them if they are in an environment where this plant is found. Should a dog ingest crown imperial, it is vital to seek prompt veterinary attention to guarantee appropriate treatment and management of the toxic effects.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.