Quick Guide: spring, hardy, sun/semi-shade, height: 75cm/30in, width: 20cm/8in

The small group of fritillaries in general cultivation range from the majestic F. imperialis (crown imperial), which may reach 90cm/3ft, to the 30cm/12in F. meleagris (snake's-head fritillary) with its distinctive checkerboard petals. The proud blooms of F. imperialis, coronets held high on straight stems clothed with glossy leaves, are best appreciated in a border. F. meleagris, by contrast, with its nodding, bell-like flowers, is suited to a semiwild or at least informal setting.

GROWING Both species like fertile, well-drained soil. F. irnperialis needs sun. F. meleagris does well in moist conditions, in short grass or at the border's edge. Set the bulbs on their sides to prevent water lodging in the depression on top. Plant them in autumn, 20cm/8in deep for F. imperialis, 10cm/4in for F. meleagris. Do not disturb for at least 4 years, apart from cutting down the stems after flowering.

PROPAGATION Take offsets from mature bulbs after the leaves have withered. Replant bulbils and parent bulbs immediately.

VARIETIES F. imperlalis: `Aurora', deep orange; `Lutea Maxima' (above), golden yellow. F. meleagris: `Alba', white, veined green; `Artemis', purple-grey with purple checkers; `Saturnus', violet-rcd.

POSSIBLE PROBLEMS Generally trouble-free.