Bio Fritillaria imperialis 'Early Dream' - Crown Imperial

Organic Orange-Yellow Crown Imperial – Fritillaria 'Early Dream'

The Fritillaria 'Early Dream' is a striking spring bloomer that grows from a large bulb. The thick, unbranched flower stems reach about 60 centimeters in height. Unique to this variety are the narrow, pointed leaves that grow both along the stem and above the flowers. The hanging bell-shaped flowers have a warm orange-yellow hue and are topped with a crown of green leaves. 'Early Dream' blooms slightly earlier than other crown imperials, making it one of the first eye-catchers in the spring garden.

This crown imperial thrives both in the open ground and in pots. The stems can be cut for use as cut flowers, though this will affect the bulb’s performance the following year.

Combine with organic tulips or low-growing early bloomers like grape hyacinths.

The flowers produce nectar that bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects love. The droplets have a subtly sweet taste that even humans can enjoy!

How, Where, and When to Plant Fritillaria 'Early Dream'

Plant 'Early Dream' bulbs from late September. Use a planting depth of 2 to 3 times the height of the bulb, and keep that same distance between bulbs. Because the bulb has a hollow center from previous years, it’s important to plant it horizontally, with the hole facing sideways to prevent water accumulation.

Care

Plant the bulb in well-drained, humus-rich soil. Do you have heavy clay soil? Mix in plenty of sand and optionally add a layer of gravel at the bottom of the planting hole to ensure proper drainage. In spring, once the first shoots appear, apply organic fertilizer for strong growth and rich flowering.

After flowering, cut off the spent blooms but leave the foliage until it has completely died back. This allows the bulb to store energy for the next year.

The bulbs can remain in the ground over summer. Is it getting crowded? Then dig them up after a few years in summer, store them dry, and replant in autumn.

Propagation

Fritillaria 'Early Dream' propagates through small bulblets that form around the main bulb. These can be carefully separated in summer once the foliage has died. Let them dry for a few days and replant in autumn. After a few years, these young bulbs may begin to flower.

For experienced gardeners, propagation from seed is also possible, though it takes 5–7 years for the plant to bloom. This method is rarely used in home gardens but may be of interest to botanical collectors.

Moles and Voles

Like other crown imperials, 'Early Dream' repels moles and voles with the sulfur-containing terpene scent released by the bulb. This smell makes it unattractive to burrowing animals.

Origin of the Fritillaria

The crown imperial is one of the oldest cultivated flower bulbs and originates from the region stretching from Turkey to the Kashmir mountains.

In historical stories and images, the crown imperial plays a symbolic role. One legend says the flowers bowed and cried out of shame and reverence, and have hung their heads ever since. The nectar, which resembles tears, adds to this image.

The plant symbolizes royal dignity and wealth, partly because the bulb multiplies slowly.

Buy Organic Fritillaria 'Early Dream'

Skal NL-BIO-01 certified: 109459

Sold per 1 bulb or choose volume discount.

Volume discount: A

Available for order from June 2025!

Shipping: €5.95 – free shipping from €50

Specifications

Other Fritillaria Varieties:

• Organic Fritillaria 'Rubra Maxima'

NL-BIO-01