Fritillaria imperialis 'Lutea'

Yellow Crown Imperial

Family: Liliaceae
Height: 30 to 40 in
Width: 10 to 14 in
Flower color: Bright golden yellow, nodding bell-shaped flowers borne in a circular cluster beneath a leafy crown
Foliage color: Glossy medium to deep green, lance-shaped leaves arranged in whorls along the stem
Bloom time: Mid to late spring
Light: Full sun to partial sun
Water: Moderate
Maintenance: Low, plant bulbs deeply on their sides to reduce moisture collection, allow foliage to yellow naturally after bloom
Growing zone: USDA zones 5 to 8
Wildlife: Occasional visits from bees and early-season pollinators

About this plant

Fritillaria imperialis 'Lutea' produces tall, upright stems topped with a bold crown of nodding, bell-shaped flowers in clear golden yellow. The blossoms are arranged in a circular cluster beneath a tuft of narrow, glossy green bracts that resemble a leafy crest. Blooming in mid to late spring, the flowers bring dramatic vertical interest early in the season, while the smooth, lance-shaped foliage lines the stem in evenly spaced whorls.

Native to regions of the Middle East and western Asia, 'Lutea' works well as a focal point in borders and mixed perennial plantings, where its strong form anchors spring displays. It also pairs effectively with later-emerging perennials, allowing its architectural presence to transition gracefully as the season progresses.

Works well in

Borders · Cottage Gardens · Under Trees · Woodland Gardens · Containers

Companion plants

Forget-me-nots · Japanese anemones · Bleeding hearts · Catmint · Grape hyacinths · Hardy geraniums

Design tip

Spring bloom is its headline moment, and it reads best in a group rather than as a single plant. Plant in generous groups rather than single spots, and set them among perennials whose new growth covers the fading foliage.

Where to see it

This plant can be seen at Roozengaarde.