Fritillaria imperialis 'Maxima Lutea'
bulb corm tuber RHS Award

Yellow Crown Imperial

Fritillaria imperialis 'Maxima Lutea'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated
Real-Time Pricing
Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Bulb Corm Tuber

Height

36 inches

Width

12 inches

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.

The Story

Plant Bio

Large, erect flowering stems with several blooms. Known for its unique, large yellow flowers and distinctive crown.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesImpressive, tall flowers add vertical interest and fragrance to gardens. Their striking appearance makes them excellent focal points.
Practical UsesBulbs are relatively easy to grow with minimal maintenance, providing early spring color.
Ecological BenefitsAttracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck bulbs 6 inches deep in well-draining soil in fall.
  2. Water sparingly until shoots appear in early spring.
  3. Mist cuttings or divide mature bulbs after flowering for propagation.
  4. Support tall flower stems to prevent toppling during bloom.
  5. Remove spent flowers to encourage healthy growth and bulb development.
  6. 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

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
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 β€” 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 β€” 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.

Keep exploring

Grow Yellow Crown Imperial with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

Download Sow on the App StoreGet Sow on Google Play