Red Fritillaria - Rubra Maxima

I was hesitant to order crown imperials because I don't really see anyone growing them in my area and I wondered if maybe the wet Seattle winters were too much for them (they're prone to rot). But I took a chance and planted them on their sides in an spot that gets a little rain cover from a cedar tree — and I'm so glad I did! These were among the first bulbs to emerge in early spring and looked like wild white and yellow hands reaching from the earth. In a few weeks they were standing tall and now in early April the flower buds are visible and waiting to bloom. I check every day in anticipation! I ordered three orange and three red, and all 6 bulbs came up. Everyone who has stopped by my house has asked about these unique plants. I'm going to need to order more of these next year, they're fabulous.

Healthy, large bulbs. Can't wait to see the flowers next spring.