Yellow Fritillary
fritillaria pudica
Also known as: ["Yellow Fritillary","Yellow Bell"]
Overview
A small, bulbous perennial native to western North America, known for its bright yellow, bell-shaped flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Liliales |
| Family: | Liliaceae |
| Genus: | Fritillaria |
| Botanical Name: | Fritillaria pudica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or sunny borders
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent bulb rot.
- Soil Type: Sandy, well-draining soil with some organic matter; mimics natural habitat.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed after flowering; no routine pruning required.
- Pruning Intensity: Light; only remove dead or spent parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust to avoid scorching in intense summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun if moved from shade; protect from harsh midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent sunburn.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; provide shade during peak afternoon heat; rotate pots for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in dormancy
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogging; adjust frequency based on growth stage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay mixes; use a mix designed for bulbs or cacti.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C); prefers cooler conditions during dormancy.
Keep bulbs cool during dormancy; protect from extreme heat; maintain consistent temperatures for flowering.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth, none in dormancy
Fertilize sparingly to avoid bulb rot; apply before flowering; stop after bloom.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is most common; division of bulbs is also possible but less frequent.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Sow seeds shallowly.
- Keep moist.
- Protect from extreme temperatures.
- Divide bulbs carefully, ensuring each has roots and a growing point.
Best Time: Sow seeds in late summer or early fall; divide bulbs in late summer after foliage dies back.
Environment
Cool temperatures (50–60°F or 10–15°C), high humidity, and partial shade for seeds; similar conditions for bulb division.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or bulb mix with added perlite.
Hormone
Not typically required for seeds; bulb division may benefit from a mild rooting hormone.
Timeline
Seeds may take 1–3 years to germinate and establish; bulb division will produce new plants in 1–2 seasons.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, well-draining mix, misting bottle, sharp knife (for division).
Quick Tips
Sow seeds in fall for natural cold stratification; divide bulbs only when necessary to avoid stress.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip flower stalks at the base with clean cuts; avoid cutting foliage until it naturally yellows and dies back.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove spent flower stalks to redirect energy to bulb development.
Tools
Hand pruners or sharp scissors.
Checklist
Remove spent flowers; do not cut green foliage; clean tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late summer after foliage dies back or before new growth begins in early spring.
Pot Size
Use a pot one size larger if repotting; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently lift bulbs; remove old soil; inspect for damage; replant at the same depth in fresh, well-draining soil.
Suggestions
Repot only when bulbs become crowded or every 2–3 years; avoid disturbing bulbs unnecessarily.
Checklist
Use fresh soil; plant at correct depth; ensure drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for dormancy.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during active growth in spring, allowing soil to dry between waterings; reduce watering significantly in summer dormancy and winter.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or failure to flower in response to extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can induce dormancy; prolonged frost may damage bulbs if not protected.
Solution: Mulch bulbs with straw or leaves in winter; plant in a sheltered location; avoid overwatering during cold spells.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause foliage to wilt or scorch, disrupting growth and flowering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; water early in the day; ensure good air circulation; avoid compacted soil.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply at base; avoid foliage contact; cease during dormancy.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply once in early spring as growth begins; avoid fertilizing during dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicFritillaria pudica can cause mild gastrointestinal issues in cats if ingested. The alkaloids may lead to mild symptoms, but severe toxicity is rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe alkaloids present in Fritillaria pudica can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs if ingested. The effects are typically not life-threatening but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicFritillaria pudica contains alkaloids that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and other symptoms upon ingestion. The physiological impact is generally limited to discomfort rather than severe toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Fritillaria pudica toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How should I care for Fritillaria pudica?
A: Plant bulbs in well-drained soil, provide full sun to partial shade, and water moderately during the growing season.
Q: Does Fritillaria pudica attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Liliaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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