Checkered Lily (Fritillaria meleagris)

Also known as guinea hen flower, chess flower and snake’s head fritillary, this spring bloomer makes a wonderful splash in the garden. Hardy from Z 3-8, this member of the Liliaceae family likes rich, moist soils in partial shade. Native to river flood plains in Europe and western Asia, checkered lilies are an excellent choice for naturalizing in a moist, shady garden. Bulbs planted 3” deep and 3” apart emerge early in April with grass-like foliage and pendulous, checkered bell-shaped flowers. The straight species features a combination of dark pink and maroon (see directly below) although a white form (Fritillaria meleagris var. unicolor subvar. alba) is available as well. Preferring a neutral pH, this bulb has no serious insect or disease problems, is avoided by deer and rodents and can tolerate walnut toxicity issues. Checkered lilies lend themselves nicely to bulb lawns and short meadows as well. Note the photos showing their use in these situations (Olbrich Botanical Gardens, Madison, WI, USA). It comes as no surprise that this bulb has received an Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society. Identify spaces this spring that would benefit from this early color and address accordingly with fall planting. Bulbs can be sources locally or certainly from reputable mail order sources.