Snakehead Fritillary
Fritillaria meleagrisfam. Liliaceae
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Pl. FAFE — Fritillaria meleagris
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IOverview
Overview
Snakehead Fritillary, scientifically known as Fritillaria meleagris, is a bulbous plant native to Kazakhstan. It thrives in moist, light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils with a pH of 7–7.5, making it adaptable but preferring well-drained conditions. This plant reaches a height of about 0.3 meters and is known for its edible bulb, which can be consumed after proper preparation. Medicinal use has also been documented, though specific applications are not detailed here. Its distinctive feature includes the snake-like patterns on its leaves, giving it an ornamental appeal in gardens.
Quick answers
What is Snakehead Fritillary?
Snakehead Fritillary, scientifically known as Fritillaria meleagris, is a bulbous plant native to Kazakhstan. It thrives in moist, light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils with a pH of 7–7.5, making it adaptable but preferring well-drained conditions.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Snakehead Fritillary thrives in light to medium soil with a pH of 7–7.5 and prefers moist conditions. It is hardy in temperate regions from zones 3-7 and grows to about 0.3 meters tall. The bulb is edible, making it a useful addition to the garden. Provide this plant with sufficient water and light, ensuring its soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged. For propagation, division of bulbs or planting seeds can be effective methods.
Light
8/10
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
3-7
Mature size
0.3 m tall
Soil pH
7–7.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Snakehead Fritillary for the first time
8steps
Start with Snakehead Fritillary bulbs to ensure success in your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
Snakehead Fritillary bulbs, a small trowel or shovel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in autumn, about 6-8 weeks before the first frost.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with moist, well-draining soil. Ensure pH is between 7 and 7.5.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Plant bulbs about 10-12 cm deep and 15-20 cm apart in the prepared soil.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly to avoid rotting the bulbs. Keep the area free of weeds.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly during dry spells, especially when leaves appear. Fertilize lightly once in spring.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead foliage after flowering to help the bulb store energy for next year.
- 8
Common mistakes
Planting too deep, not providing enough moisture, and over-fertilizing are common issues.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Bulb
Edible uses: The Snakehead Fritillary's bulb is edible and can be prepared in various ways. Typically, it is cooked or dried before consumption. SKIP
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
1 native · 18 introduced
Distribution
1 native · 18 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 1 native· 18 introduced
Europe12 regions
introduced (12)AustriaBelarusFranceGermanyHungaryItalyNetherlandsPolandRomaniaRussiaSwitzerlandUkraine
Asia1 region
native (1)Kazakhstan
Broader regions
introduced:Altay, Czechoslovakia, Yugoslavia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Liliaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Liliaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
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