Fritillaria Uva-Vulpis (Tarsi Raiwi)

The most commonly recognised fritillary is the Snakeshead Fritillary, a chequered bell flower. However, there are more from this group that are well worth growing. The Fox's Grape Fritillary is a delicate, browny-purple bell shaped flower tipped with yellow, a gentle curve to the stem adds to its charm. It's native to Turkey, Iraq and Iran where it grows in damp meadows.

Grow from bulbs planted in late autumn for flowers the following spring. The bulbs are very reasonably priced. Legend has it that planting these lovely things deters rabbits, but we have absolutely no evidence for this.

Size: slim plants up to 30cm, will be tallest when protected in a greenhouse or polytunnel. Can be grown in pots or troughs.

Flowers March to April

How to cut: Straight into clean fresh water. a few extra centimetres can be gained by sliding snips down the stem below the soil.

Uses: perfect in bouquets, buttonholes, low bowls and arrangements, or sold as stems for display in bud vases.