Yellow Fritillary

Fritillaria pudica

Physical Characteristics

Fritillaria pudica is a BULB growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in) by 0.1 m (0ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. 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 - British Columbia to Wyoming, south to New Mexico.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Seedpod Edible Uses: Bulb - raw or cooked[46, 61, 161]. It can also be dried for later use[46]. Commonly eaten as a food by the native North Americans, the small bulbs were eaten raw and the larger ones cooked[270]. Rich in starch, it is best used in the autumn[172]. The raw bulb tastes like potatoes, when cooked it tastes like rice[212]. It can be eaten as a vegetable or can be added to soups etc[257]. The green seedpods can be eaten raw or cooked but are bitter[172]. A delicious flavour[212].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known