Fritillaria michailovskyi

Fritillaria michailovskyi is a small fritillary native to the mountainous regions of northeastern Turkey. It is known for its unusual spring flowering, consisting of pendulous mahogany bell-shaped flowers with yellow-tipped petals. To successfully cultivate this amazing bulbous plant, it is important to provide it with conditions similar to those found in its natural habitat. It should be planted in a sunny rock garden protected from excessive moisture in winter. Growing it in pots allows for easy moisture management and protection from heavy frost.

Fritillaria michailovskyi belongs to the Liliaceae family. In its natural habitat, it grows in scree and on rocky slopes with early snow. It is relatively hardy (-10 to -15°C (14 to 5°F)) and tolerates limestone well. However, it does not thrive in a climate that is too dry in summer or too wet in winter. It is a deciduous perennial bulbous plant that goes dormant in dry soil during winter. Vegetation emerges in spring, consisting of upright, slightly bluish medium green linear leaves measuring 5 to 9cm (2 to 4in) long. The height of this fritillary can reach 15 to 20cm (6 to 8in) when in bloom. Flowering occurs in April-May. The floral stems bear 1 to 4 pendulous flowers with shiny mahogany bell-shaped blooms with yellow tips. The foliage dries up some time after flowering, while the bulb enters dormancy. During this time of year, excess moisture will cause the bulb to rot.

Fritillaria michailovskyi requires soil that remains slightly moist from spring to summer, but it should be protected from winter moisture with a covering or mulch. In favourable climates, it thrives in sunny borders, rock gardens, or gravel beds. Plant in groups. It is also a lovely plant to cultivate in pots on a patio or balcony.