Pyrenean Fritillary
fritillaria tubiformis
Also known as: ["Pyrenean Fritillary","Tubiform Fritillary"]
Overview
A bulbous perennial with nodding, bell-shaped flowers, native to the Pyrenees mountains.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Liliales |
| Family: | Liliaceae |
| Genus: | Fritillaria |
| Botanical Name: | Fritillaria tubiformis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock garden or raised bed with good drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent bulb rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with added organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering; remove dead foliage in late fall or early winter.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; focus on tidiness rather than shaping.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust for intense summer sun to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight; provide shade during peak summer heat; for indoor plants, place near south-facing windows with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate pot for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to diffuse intense sunlight; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in dormancy
Water thoroughly but infrequently; avoid waterlogging; focus on root zone during growth periods.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a cactus or bulb-specific mix; avoid overwatering; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C); prefers cooler conditions during dormancy.
Protect from frost; avoid placing in drafty areas; maintain consistent temperatures during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth, none in dormancy
Fertilize sparingly to avoid bulb rot; stop feeding in summer; use a bulb-specific fertilizer for best results.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation or division of bulbs; seeds take longer but produce more genetically diverse plants.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate offsets from parent bulb.
- Plant at twice their depth.
- Water sparingly until established.
Best Time: After flowering in late spring or early summer when bulbs are dormant.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions for seeds; cool, dry conditions for bulb storage before planting.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand; for seeds, use a sterile seed-starting mix.
Hormone
Not necessary for bulb division; optional for seeds to encourage germination.
Timeline
Bulbs may flower in 2–3 years; seeds can take 3–5 years to mature.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, small trowel, bulb separator, sterile potting mix.
Quick Tips
Handle bulbs carefully to avoid damage; store seeds in a cool, dark place until planting; use clean tools to prevent disease.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut flower stalks at the base; snip yellowing leaves close to the bulb.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove spent flower stalks to redirect energy to bulb development; trim yellowing foliage after dormancy.
Tools
Sharp, clean pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Use clean tools; cut spent flowers; remove dead foliage; avoid cutting into the bulb itself.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late summer or early fall, after dormancy but before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure adequate drainage holes.
Method
Carefully lift bulbs; remove old soil; inspect for damage; replant at twice their depth in fresh, well-draining soil.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when bulbs become crowded; necessary to refresh soil and prevent bulb rot.
Checklist
Use fresh soil; plant at correct depth; ensure good drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply during active growth in spring and fall, reduce frequency in summer dormancy and winter; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or premature bulb dormancy in response to extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause root damage or delay growth; frost can damage foliage and flowers.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; mulch around bulbs; move potted plants to a sheltered location; avoid planting in frost-prone areas.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity around the plant; water deeply during heatwaves; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid during dormancy; water after fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply every 4–6 weeks during spring and fall; avoid fertilizing during dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicFritillaria tubiformis is toxic to cats, with the bulbs and leaves containing cardiotoxic glycosides that can lead to severe gastrointestinal and cardiovascular issues in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe bulbs and leaves of Fritillaria tubiformis are toxic to dogs due to the presence of cardiotoxic glycosides. These compounds can cause severe gastrointestinal and cardiovascular distress in canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicFritillaria tubiformis contains toxic compounds, primarily cardiotoxic glycosides, which can affect the cardiovascular system when ingested. These compounds interfere with electrolyte balance and cardiac function, leading to potential health risks.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Fritillaria tubiformis toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Where is Fritillaria tubiformis native to?
A: It is native to the Pyrenees mountains.
Q: What are the common problems with Fritillaria tubiformis?
A: Common problems include rotting and stunted growth.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Liliaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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