Early Fantasy Crown Imperial

Crown Imperial ‘Early Fantasy’ (Fritillaria imperialis ‘Early Fantasy’) showers the garden with an early-to-mid spring display of peachy-apricot blooms. The flowers are spectacular and hang like bells from the tall (40"), thin-leaved stems. Alone they can be used at the back of a border, or bring them forward to line an entry or path. Plant with Muscari or other lower growing spring bulbs for a memorable display. When happy, they will return in the same location year after year—their key requirements are well-drained soil. They prefer moderately moist, sandy soil and full sun-to-dappled shade. Fritillaria’s scent, while a bit musky, will deter deer and squirrels from your garden too. Once the flowers have faded and the leaves have died back, cut back the stems and mark the spot where they will return. For best success, plant Fritillaria bulbs at a 45-degree angle so they don't fill with water and rot.