Fritillaria is a genus of plant that includes about 100 different species. Most species are found in warm regions of the Northern Hemisphere. The plants have bell-shaped flowers and often an unpleasant smell, but often are still used in gardens. Typically, species of Fritillaria need rich soil in order to grow effectively, but can survive in a variety of conditions. In England, the plants are known as fritillaries, while in America some species are called missionbells.
The distinguishing feature of Fritillaria plants is the flowers, which are shaped like upside-down cups. Most species flower during the spring, which is why the plants are sometimes said to herald the end of the winter months. The plants are bulbous species, which means that they have short stems and thick leaves.
Some species of Fritillaria are poisonous. Most are harmless to humans if exposed in very small quantities, but larger doses can be fatal. There are, however, some species of Fritillaria that are edible, as long as they are prepared by an experienced chef. Even these species may be dangerous if consumed in large quantities, though.
Not all species require the same growing conditions. For example, certain species such as F.minima, grow well in cold conditions, while others require a warmer climate. Gardeners who wish to glow the plants need to be aware of the conditions in which each species thrives.
A common example of a Fritillaria species is the Fritillaria meleagris, also known as the Snake’s head. This particular species grows to around 12 inches (30 cm) in height and has attractive, pink flowers. The plant is often found in wild areas of the UK, although it is becoming less common as its habitat is being destroyed. Like other plants of the genus, the Snake’s head blooms during spring and is a perennial plant, which means that it flowers for more than two seasons.
Fritillaria plants also are used in Chinese medicine for several different purposes, but most commonly as a cough medicine. Certain species are also used to treat an overactive thyroid. Whether or not the plants have a medicinal effect on these conditions has not been well studied.
Several species have historical significance as well. The attractive appearance and interesting colors of certain plants have resulted in them being used as emblems. For example, the county of Oxfordshire, England, uses the Snake’s head as its official flower.