One of the most frequently asked questions this time of year is “What is that spiky, lily-looking type of plant that has flowers hanging down”? |
| Fritillaria ‘Lutea’, yellow and ‘Rubra’, orange-red, are scattered along the pathways throughout the Thanksgiving Point Gardens. This unique looking plant is native to Turkey, Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan and the Himalayan foothills. It is one of the first plants to be cultivated. It has been said that the orange-red blossoms were once used as a source of carpet dye by Persian villagers. Fritillaria should be planted in the fall, 8 inches deep and 12 inches apart for bloom in mid April to early May. It is recommended that bulbs be planted on their side to prevent water causing rot at the top of the bulb. Unlike other spring blooming flowers the Fritillaria has a distinctive skunk like fragrance that is supposed to repel rodent. |
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