Kamchatka Fritillary
fritillaria camschatcensis
Also known as: ["Kamchatka Lily","Chess Lily"]
Overview
A perennial bulbous plant native to the cool temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, known for its distinctive checkered purple and green flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","cold hardy"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Liliales |
| Family: | Liliaceae |
| Genus: | Fritillaria |
| Botanical Name: | Fritillaria camschatcensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed in a cool, moist area with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent bulb rot; ensure water does not pool around the roots.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; prefers soil that mimics its native boggy or forest floor habitat.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering; remove any dead or diseased parts as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; primarily removing spent flowers and yellowing leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight in cooler climates, or filtered sunlight in warmer regions; adjust based on seasonal temperature changes.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight to avoid scorching; provide shade during the hottest part of the day in warm climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent heat stress.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Monitor for signs of sunburn; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity; use shade cloth if necessary.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in dormancy
Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; adjust frequency based on season and weather.
Soil
well-draining, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure excellent drainage; amend with organic matter if soil is heavy; avoid waterlogged conditions.
Temperature
Cool to cold temperatures preferred; ideal range 50–65°F (10–18°C) during active growth; tolerates frost but requires a cold period for dormancy.
Protect from extreme heat; ensure a cold period for dormancy; adjust watering based on temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly to avoid excessive foliage growth; apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing in late summer.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is most common; division of bulbs can also be done after dormancy.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Sow seeds shallowly in a seed tray.
- Keep moist and cool.
- Divide bulbs carefully after dormancy.
- Replant divisions at the correct depth.
Best Time: Late summer or early fall after dormancy begins; seeds should be sown as soon as they are ripe.
Environment
Cool temperatures (50–60°F or 10–15°C) with high humidity for seeds; indirect light for bulb divisions.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or bulb compost; for bulb division, use fresh, sterile potting mix.
Hormone
Not typically required for seeds; rooting hormone can be used for bulb cuttings if desired.
Timeline
Seeds may take 2–3 years to germinate and several more years to flower; bulb division will typically produce flowering plants in 1–2 years.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, sterile potting mix, watering can, sharp knife (for division).
Quick Tips
Sow seeds immediately after collection; provide consistent cool temperatures for germination; handle bulb divisions carefully to avoid damage.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead or damaged foliage at the base; deadhead flowers if seed production is not desired.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage after flowering; allow seed pods to develop if propagation is desired.
Tools
Sharp, clean scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Remove dead foliage; deadhead if necessary; check for disease or pests; clean tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late summer or early fall after dormancy begins and before new growth starts.
Pot Size
Use a pot one size larger if repotting; ensure it is deep enough to accommodate the bulb’s roots.
Method
Carefully lift the bulbs; remove old, dead offsets; replant at the same depth in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot only when bulbs become crowded or every 3–4 years; avoid disturbing the bulbs unnecessarily as they prefer to be undisturbed.
Checklist
Lift bulbs carefully; inspect for damage or disease; replant at correct depth; use fresh soil; ensure good drainage.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust for dormancy.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, avoiding foliage; apply water slowly to allow it to penetrate the root zone; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging; water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth in spring and early summer; reduce watering in late summer and fall as the plant enters dormancy; avoid overwatering during dormancy to prevent rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost or leaf mold for organic matter; ensure soil is loose and friable.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or browning of leaves in excessive heat; stunted growth or failure to flower in insufficiently cold conditions; soft, mushy bulbs in overly warm, wet conditions.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow metabolic processes but are necessary for dormancy; excessive cold without protection can damage or kill bulbs.
Solution: Plant bulbs at appropriate depth for insulation; mulch heavily in winter; protect from extreme cold with frost cloth or move containers indoors if necessary.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, bud drop, and premature dormancy; high temperatures combined with dry soil can stress the plant severely.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity around the plant; water more frequently during heatwaves; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in early spring; avoid during dormancy; dilute to half strength if using liquid fertilizer.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as growth begins; avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers; discontinue fertilizing during dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicFritillaria camschatcensis is toxic to cats, with bulbs and roots containing toxic alkaloids that can induce severe gastrointestinal and systemic effects. Cats are highly sensitive to these compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe bulbs and roots of Fritillaria camschatcensis are toxic to dogs, containing compounds that can cause severe gastrointestinal upset and potential systemic toxicity. Dogs are particularly sensitive to these alkaloids.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicFritillaria camschatcensis contains toxic compounds, primarily steroidal alkaloids, which can cause gastrointestinal distress and mild systemic effects upon ingestion. The bulbs and roots are the most toxic parts due to higher concentrations of these compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Fritillaria camschatcensis toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How should I care for Fritillaria camschatcensis?
A: Plant bulbs in well-drained soil in partial shade, water moderately, and ensure good air circulation to prevent rot.
Q: Does Fritillaria camschatcensis attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Liliaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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