Chocolate Lily, Checker lily

Fritillaria affinis

Physical Characteristics

Fritillaria affinis is a BULB growing to 0.6 m (2ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from April to May. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Western N. America - British Columbia to California, east to Idaho.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Seedpod Edible Uses: Bulb - raw, cooked or dried for winter use[2, 161]. Rich in starch, the bulb is best used in the autumn[172]. The plant has a small bulb surrounded by rice-like bulblets[256]. Both bulb and bulblets are used, when cooked they are tender and delicate, resembling real rice except for having a slightly bitter taste[256]. The roots were a staple food for some native North American Indian tribes[257]. Immature seedpods - raw or cooked. A bitter flavour[172].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known