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Persian Lily (Fritillaria persica)

Fritillaria persica, the Persian Lily, is a striking bulbous perennial with tall spikes of deep purple bell-shaped flowers.

Above information is sourced from Wikipedia

Sunlight

Prefers full sun to partial shade. Afternoon shade is beneficial in hot climates.

Watering

Water moderately during growth, allow to dry slightly between waterings. Keep dry during summer dormancy.

Soil

Requires well-drained soil. A sandy loam or gritty compost mix is ideal to prevent bulb rot.

Temperature

Ideal growing temperature is between 10-20°C. Can tolerate cooler temperatures when dormant.

Habitat

Outdoor, Greenhouse

Fertilizer

Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer in early spring. Avoid over-fertilizing.

Care Requirements

Light

Prefers full sun to partial shade. Afternoon shade is beneficial in hot climates.

Water

Water moderately during growth, allow to dry slightly between waterings. Keep dry during summer dormancy.

Soil

Requires well-drained soil. A sandy loam or gritty compost mix is ideal to prevent bulb rot.

Temperature

Ideal growing temperature is between 10-20°C. Can tolerate cooler temperatures when dormant.

Habitat

Outdoor, Greenhouse

Fertilizer

Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer in early spring. Avoid over-fertilizing.

Plant Overview

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Category

Flowering, Ornamental

Plant Place Type

Ground, Garden, Pot

Plant Environment

Outdoor, Greenhouse

Lifespan

Perennials

Plant Height

0.6-1.2 m

Spread

0.1-0.3 m

Growth Rate

Moderate

Dormancy

Summer

Leaf Color

Green

Leaf Type

Lanceolate

Flower Size

2-3 cm

Image Gallery

Flowering & Fruiting Cycles

Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.

Northern hemisphere

Flowering & fruiting calendar

Peak bloom · AprPeak fruit · Jul
FloweringFruiting
02468JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecActivity intensityMonths65
Southern hemisphere

Flowering & fruiting calendar

Peak bloom · AugPeak fruit · Sep
FloweringFruiting
02468JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecActivity intensityMonths65
Synonyms
Fritillaria arabica Gand.
Fritillaria eggeri Bornm.
Fritillaria libanotica (Boiss.) Baker
Theresia libanotica Boiss.
Theresia persica (L.) K.Koch
Tozzettia persica (L.) Parl.
Taxonomy
  • kingdomPlantae
  • divisionTracheophyta
  • classLiliopsida
  • orderLiliales
  • familyLiliaceae
  • genusFritillaria
  • speciesFritillaria persica
Toxicity

Toxic for humans

Yes

Rating: 3/5

Toxic for pets

Yes

Rating: 3/5

Edible

No

Additional Care Tips

Water moderately during the spring and early summer growing period. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering significantly as the foliage begins to yellow and die back in summer, and keep dry during dormancy.

Remove spent flower stalks after blooming to prevent seed formation and direct energy back into the bulb. Cut back the foliage only after it has completely yellowed and died back naturally in summer.

Propagated by offsets or bulb division in late summer or early autumn when the bulbs are dormant. Seeds can be sown in autumn, but flowering may take several years.

Repot bulbs every 2-3 years in late summer or early autumn. Use a well-draining potting mix and ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

FAQs

When is the best time to plant Fritillaria persica bulbs?

Plant Fritillaria persica bulbs in autumn, typically from September to November, after the soil has cooled down but before it freezes. This allows the bulbs to establish roots before winter.

How do I care for Fritillaria persica after flowering?

After flowering, allow the foliage to yellow and die back naturally. Do not cut it back prematurely. Reduce watering significantly as the plant enters its summer dormancy period.

Is Fritillaria persica poisonous to pets?

Yes, Fritillaria species, including Fritillaria persica, contain compounds that can be toxic to pets, causing gastrointestinal upset and other symptoms. All parts of the plant are considered toxic.

What kind of soil does Fritillaria persica need?

Fritillaria persica requires well-drained soil to prevent bulb rot. A gritty, sandy loam or a mix with added grit or perlite is ideal. Avoid heavy, waterlogged soils.

Can Fritillaria persica be grown in pots?

Yes, Fritillaria persica can be successfully grown in pots. Ensure the pot has good drainage and use a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil dry during the summer dormancy period.