Fritillaria verticillata

Physical Characteristics

Fritillaria verticillata 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 5. It is in flower from March 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 and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

E. Asia - China, Siberia.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Leaves Root Edible Uses: Bulb - cooked or candied[183]. The bulb is about 2cm in diameter[266]. Young plant - cooked. Used in soups[183]. Eating the young plant will greatly reduce the vigour of the bulb, and could even kill it[K]. Petals and flower buds - cooked. Used in soups[183].

Medicinal Uses

Antidote Antitussive Astringent Cancer Expectorant Galactogogue The bulbs are antidote, antitussive, astringent, expectorant, galactogogue and purgative[116, 218]. They contain fritimine which diminishes excitability of respiratory centres, paralyses voluntary movement and counters effects of opium[61]. The bulb is used internally in the treatment of coughs, bronchitis, pneumonia, feverish illnesses, abscesses etc[238]. The bulbs also have a folk history of use against cancer of the breast and lungs in China[218, 238]. This remedy should only be used under the supervision of a qualified practitioner, excessive doses can cause breathing difficulties and heart failure[238]. The bulbs are harvested in the winter whilst they are dormant and are dried for later use[238].

Known Hazards

None known