Crown imperial

Crown imperials are the handsome giants among a normally small race. Everything about them is on a large scale - the bulbs are fist-size, the robust flower stems can reach 1.2m (4ft) in good soil, and the pendent bell-shaped flowers typical of fritillaries are 5 to 8cm (2 to 3in) long and wide. A large clump of these stately plants is an imposing sight, and quite undemanding once the bulbs are established - they may take a season to flower after planting. Efficient drainage is essential, and on the heaviest soils it's a good idea to plant the bulbs sideways in a bed of gravel.