Fritillaria camschatcensis (Chocolate Lily)

An exceptional species, Fritillaria camschatcensis (Chocolate Lily) is a showy bulbous perennial with sturdy stems clothed in lance-shaped, glossy deep-green leaves mostly arranged in whorls down the stem. In spring to midsummer, up to 8 large, nodding, deep blackish-purple flowers, sometimes streaked or spotted with yellow, are borne at the stem tips.

An exceptional species, Fritillaria camschatcensis (Chocolate Lily) is a showy bulbous perennial with sturdy stems clothed in lance-shaped, glossy deep-green leaves mostly arranged in whorls down the stem. In spring to midsummer, up to 8 large, nodding, deep blackish-purple flowers, sometimes streaked or spotted with yellow, are borne at the stem tips. The flowers are pollinated by flies, which are attracted by the somewhat offensive odor of the plant. This Fritillaria species ranges from Asia (Japan) to Alaska, Yukon Territory, British Columbia, and south to portions of western Washington and Oregon. Easy to grow, vigorous and hardy, Chocolate Lily is very showy and makes a spectacular sight in gardens. It is perfect for a slightly shaded, damp to seasonally wet, humus-rich soil. Once established, it tends to spread in the garden but is not invasive.

  • Grows up to 6-24 in. tall (15-60 cm).
  • Plant in fall in a part shade area in organically rich, moist but well-drained soil for best results.
  • Charming in groupings in borders, rock gardens.
  • Cut back when foliage turns yellow at the end of the season
  • Deer and rabbit resistant.

Requirements

Hardiness 4
– 8

Heat Zones 2
– 8

Climate Zones 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 15, 16, 17, A1, A2, A3
Plant Type Bulbs, Perennials
Plant Family Fritillaria
Exposure Partial Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Late)Summer (Early,Mid)
Height 6"
– 2'
(15cm
– 60cm)
Spread 3"
– 4"
(7cm
– 10cm)
Spacing 3″ (7cm)
Depth 2"
– 3"
(5cm
– 7cm)
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained
Characteristics Fragrant, Showy
Native Plants United States, Alaska, Pacific Northwest, Oregon, Washington
Tolerance Deer, Rabbit
Garden Uses Beds and Borders, Patio and Containers
Garden Styles City and Courtyard, Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage