Since we offer a large range of this genus it is impossible to bulk them into one catorgory for cultural treatment. However it is essential to have good drainage for all species. Plant about 10cm deep, generally flowering late March to early May. Hardy in a garden unless stated otherwise and then they should be grown in pots, in an alpine house or cold frame.
Large nodding flowers of green, maroon on the inner segments, recurved pointed purple tips. A distinctive & tall growing species from Asia Minor, up to 35cm, hardy for well drained rockery or raised bed.
A beautiful dwarf species with deep chocolate brown chequered flowers, only 15 cm tall, lovely in a trough or pan. Hardy outside but possibly in need of extra drainage in wetter regions, or cultivate in cold frame/greenhouse.
The Snakeshead Fritillary, a British Native with variable chequered maroon-purple flowers in April or May. Easy to grow in most gardens, very good for naturalising in grass or large borders providing the soil does not dry out in summer.
One to five dark reddish-purple flowers with a grey bloom, top third of each petal very bright yellow in April, 15cm. Hardy in well drained warm spot in the south of England or cold frame / alpine house in wetter/colder regions.
A beautiful and very hardy species, broad grey leaves, with one or four very large pendent pale yellow flowers up to 35cm in May. Needs a rich peaty cool compost, in light dappled shade. Very elegant.
Large bell-shaped flowers on stems up to 90cm tall, covered with up to 20 blooms of a deep purplish-plum in a loose raceme in March/April. Prefers some shelter from strong winter winds.
Broad grey-green leaves up the 30cm stem which carries up to ten bell-shaped flowers. Clear green overlaid with purple, covered with greyish bloom in spring, prefers some shelter from strong winter winds.