Fritillaria imperialis Vivaldi

Fritillaria imperialis 'Vivaldi' is a perennial bulb cultivated for its charming flower spike and crown of flowers. In April, it produces a spectacular crown of flowers, standing tall on a straight stem. The umbels are composed of 3 to 8 flowers measuring 2 to 6cm (1 to 2in) long. These bell-shaped flowers are orange with white stamens. At the base of each of the six tepals that make up a flower is a nectary that secretes drops of nectar.

This variety is one of the most resistant and tolerant species of fritillaries. It can withstand very cold temperatures. Its deciduous foliage, composed of lanceolate leaves measuring 7 to 20cm (3 to 8in) long, is light green in colour. Native to southern Turkey to Kashmir, Fritillaria imperialis can reach a height of 1.5m (5ft). It thrives in a continental climate.

The bulb is toxic. It emits an unpleasant odour that scares away rodents. It is often planted in sunny flower beds and rockeries. It looks beautiful in the middle of a small flower bed. It can also be cultivated in a pot.

Discovered in 1580, it is said to have already been cultivated in the gardens of the Ottoman Sultan, Suleiman the Magnificent. In the 17th century, it became the subject of fierce competitions among collectors who fought over it. In the past, it was called Tears of Mary. Its Persian name "gole achke" means "the flower that weeps".