Species

Fritillaria imperialisCrown Imperial

3 other cultivars

bulb corm tuber RHS Award

Yellow Crown Imperial

Fritillaria imperialis 'Maxima Lutea'

The Story

Plant Bio

Large, erect flowering stems with several blooms.

Known for its unique, large yellow flowers and distinctive crown.

Uses & Benefits:

Impressive, tall flowers add vertical interest and fragrance to gardens. Their striking appearance makes them excellent focal points.

Bulbs are relatively easy to grow with minimal maintenance, providing early spring color.

Attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.

SpeciesFritillaria imperialisCrown Imperial

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Bulb Corm Tuber

Height

36"

Width

12"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Himalayas

Toxicity

All parts are poisonous if ingested.

Bloom period

Mid-Spring – Mid-spring

In flower about 1 month of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck bulbs 6 inches deep in well-draining soil in fall.
Water sparingly until shoots appear in early spring.
Mist cuttings or divide mature bulbs after flowering for propagation.
Support tall flower stems to prevent toppling during bloom.
Remove spent flowers to encourage healthy growth and bulb development.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Plant bulbs in a sunny spot with rich, well-draining soil for best blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water during dry spells to keep soil moist 🌱
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring
Support tall flower stems with stakes

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot ❌
Don’t disturb bulbs when foliage is green
Refrain from planting in poorly drained soil

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Divide
Fertilize
Mulch
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Tall, striking floral specimen in bordersVanilla-scented accent in perennial bedsDramatic focal point in woodland gardens

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Tulips Alliums Daffodils

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Yellow Crown Imperial questions

What zones can Yellow Crown Imperial grow in?

Yellow Crown Imperial is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Yellow Crown Imperial deer resistant?

Yes — Yellow Crown Imperial is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Yellow Crown Imperial bloom?

Yellow Crown Imperial typically blooms in mid-spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Yellow Crown Imperial need full sun?

Yellow Crown Imperial does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.