Purple Fritillary, Spotted fritillary

Fritillaria atropurpurea

Physical Characteristics

Fritillaria atropurpurea is a BULB growing to 0.6 m (2ft) by 0.1 m (0ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. 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 dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Western N. America - California to Oregon, N. Dakota and New Mexico.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Edible Uses: Bulb - raw or cooked[212]. Rich in starch[212]. Rather small, it is usually less than 15mm in diameter[235].

Medicinal Uses

Salve The plant has been pulverized into a salve and applied to scrofulous swellings[257].

Known Hazards

None known