{"product_id":"crown-imperial-seeds-fritillaria-imperialis","title":"Crown Imperial Seeds | Fritillaria imperialis","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAustralian Grown · Organically Cultivated · Rare Ornamental Seeds\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eProduct Highlights\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePack Size:\u003c\/strong\u003e Standard Pack with 10 seeds or Best Value Pack with 30 seeds\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Australian Grown · Organically Cultivated\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlant Type:\u003c\/strong\u003e Deciduous bulbous perennial with a strong upright flowering stem\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMature Height:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 1 to 1.5 metres under suitable conditions\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlower Display:\u003c\/strong\u003e Large downward-facing orange to reddish-orange bells beneath an unmistakable crown of upright leafy bracts\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eAbout Crown Imperial\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are striking flowering plants, and then there is Crown Imperial.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA mature plant sends a powerful flowering stem more than a metre into the air, carrying tiers of glossy green foliage before finishing in an extraordinary ring of large, downward-facing flowers. Above them rises an unmistakable crown of upright leafy bracts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe result is almost architectural.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eFritillaria imperialis\u003c\/em\u003e is a bulbous perennial native to the mountain regions extending from eastern and south-eastern Türkiye through Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan and Pakistan towards the western Himalaya.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts annual growth cycle is strongly seasonal. New growth emerges rapidly during the cool growing period, energy is returned to the underground bulb through the foliage and the entire plant eventually disappears below ground as dormancy begins.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCrown Imperial is also famous for its distinctive musky or “foxy” scent. Research has identified the sulphur-containing compound 3-methyl-2-butene-1-thiol as the principal contributor to this characteristic aroma.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrowing Crown Imperial from seed is a genuinely long-term botanical project. Each young plant spends successive seasons enlarging its underground bulb until sufficient reserves have accumulated to support the spectacular flowering stem of a mature specimen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlants raised from seed are naturally individual. Vigour, mature size, flower colour, form and time to first flowering can vary from one plant to the next.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eDid You Know?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAccording to an old Christian legend, Crown Imperial once bore pure white, upright flowers in the Garden of Gethsemane.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen every other flower bowed its head in sorrow as Jesus passed before his arrest, the proud Crown Imperial remained upright. Overcome with shame, it blushed red, bowed its head forever and began to ‘weep’, a legend inspired by the heavy drops of clear nectar that collect inside its hanging bells.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eOrigins \u0026amp; Ethnobotanical History\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eA Flower of the Western Asian Mountains\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCrown Imperial is native across a broad mountainous region extending from eastern and south-eastern Türkiye through Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan and Pakistan towards the western Himalaya.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts underground bulb allows the plant to survive strongly seasonal conditions, storing energy beneath the soil while the visible growth disappears during dormancy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen favourable conditions return, the stored reserves support another rapid cycle of foliage and flowering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eTears Inside the Bells\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe remarkable nectaries inside Crown Imperial flowers have fascinated observers for centuries.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLarge clear droplets gather near the base of the floral segments, creating the appearance of pearls or tears inside each hanging bell.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIndividual flowers have been recorded containing approximately 200 to 350 microlitres of nectar, with depleted nectar capable of being replenished surprisingly quickly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Iran, one traditional name recorded for the species is \u003cem\u003eAshk-e Maryam\u003c\/em\u003e, meaning Tears of Mary.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAmong Lor communities, another name has been translated as Weeping Flower.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese names reflect the same extraordinary combination of hanging flowers and visible nectar droplets that later inspired European religious folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFrom Constantinople to Vienna\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCrown Imperial became one of the remarkable botanical introductions of sixteenth-century European horticulture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlants from the Ottoman world travelled west through the diplomatic and botanical networks connecting Constantinople with the Habsburg court.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy 1576 Crown Imperial was flowering in the imperial gardens of Vienna.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe influential botanist Carolus Clusius cultivated the newly introduced plant and helped distribute seeds and daughter bulbs through networks of botanists, collectors and European gardens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the time, such introductions were genuine botanical treasures. Their unusual forms were studied, illustrated and exchanged between botanists, physicians, diplomats and royal collections.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMore than four centuries later, Crown Imperial remains instantly recognisable by the same extraordinary combination of towering stem, hanging bells and leafy crown.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eGrowing Guide\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow to Grow Crown Imperial from Seed in Australia\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBest Time to Start:\u003c\/strong\u003e March to May.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAutumn sowing allows Crown Imperial seed to experience the cool seasonal cycle associated with germination.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGermination can be slow and staggered, so patience is an important part of growing this species from seed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e01 Prepare and Sow\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFill clean pots or seed trays with a fine, free-draining seed-raising mix.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEnsure the container has unrestricted drainage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMoisten the growing medium so that it is evenly damp but not saturated.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlace the seeds individually on the surface and press them gently into contact with the mix.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCover only very lightly with fine grit, sand or a thin layer of seed-raising mix.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDo not bury the seeds deeply.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLabel the container with the botanical name and sowing date.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e02 Provide Winter Cold\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCrown Imperial seed requires a cold seasonal period before reliable germination.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn cool Australian districts, autumn-sown containers can remain outdoors in a protected position where they experience natural winter temperatures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMaintain gentle moisture throughout this period without allowing the growing medium to become waterlogged.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhere winters are too mild to provide dependable chilling, controlled cold stratification can be used.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA practical guide is approximately 6 to 8 weeks at 2 to 5 °C.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse a refrigerator, not a freezer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e03 Return to Cool Growing Conditions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter controlled chilling, move the container to a cool, bright and unheated position.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTemperatures of approximately 10 to 20 °C provide a practical range for germination and early seedling growth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMaintain gentle, even moisture without keeping the growing medium continuously wet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e04 Allow Time for Germination\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCrown Imperial seed does not necessarily germinate all at once.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome seedlings may emerge following the first suitable cold cycle while other viable seeds can remain dormant considerably longer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDo not discard an apparently sound pot simply because every seed has not emerged together.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDormant seeds may respond to another seasonal cold cycle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e05 Grow the Seedlings\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProvide emerging seedlings with bright light, good airflow and moderate, consistent moisture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAvoid repeatedly disturbing young plants.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDuring their early growing seasons, each seedling gradually forms and enlarges its underground bulb.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAllow seedlings to establish strongly before unnecessary transplanting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e06 Allow Dormancy and Grow On\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs the foliage naturally yellows and dies back, gradually reduce watering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is normal seasonal dormancy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe developing bulb remains alive beneath the soil even when no growth is visible above ground.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAvoid keeping dormant pots continuously wet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAllow young plants to complete repeated cycles of active growth and dormancy as their bulbs increase in size.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs the plants mature, they can eventually be transferred to larger containers or a suitable permanent garden position.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSeed-grown Crown Imperial may require approximately 7 to 9 years to reach flowering maturity, although individual plants can mature sooner or later depending on genetics, climate and cultivation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eGermination Notice\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile we provide detailed growing instructions, successful germination depends on environmental factors such as cold exposure, temperature, moisture, growing medium, seasonal conditions and ongoing care.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBecause these conditions are outside our control, Sacred Plants Australia cannot guarantee germination outcomes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy purchasing our seeds, you acknowledge and accept these variables.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlant Care \u0026amp; Maintenance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLight:\u003c\/strong\u003e Grow in a bright position with plenty of sunlight. Full sun is suitable in cooler districts, while some protection from intense late-afternoon heat can be beneficial in warmer temperate areas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater:\u003c\/strong\u003e Maintain regular moisture during active growth without allowing the soil to remain permanently saturated. Reduce watering substantially as the foliage dies back and dormancy begins. Avoid prolonged wet conditions around dormant bulbs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil:\u003c\/strong\u003e Grow in fertile, humus-rich soil with excellent drainage. A deep, free-draining loam is ideal. Avoid persistently waterlogged soil and poorly drained heavy ground, particularly during dormancy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFeeding:\u003c\/strong\u003e Provide moderate nutrition during active growth. Compost or a suitable balanced fertiliser can support healthy bulb development. Avoid excessive feeding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCool Conditions:\u003c\/strong\u003e Crown Imperial is best suited to cool-temperate and temperate climates and cooler elevated districts. Winter cold forms an important part of its natural cycle. Growers in mild-winter regions may need controlled chilling when propagating from seed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMaintenance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Allow healthy foliage to yellow and die back naturally so the underground bulb can replenish its reserves for the following season. Avoid unnecessary disturbance of young bulbs. Slugs and snails can damage tender emerging growth, so inspect plants during active growth where these pests occur. The characteristic musky scent is a normal feature of the species. Seed-grown plants may take approximately 7 to 9 years to reach flowering maturity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eShipping \u0026amp; Biosecurity\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eACT\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAvailable\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNSW\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAvailable\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNT\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAvailable\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQLD\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAvailable\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSA\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAvailable\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTAS\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConditions apply\u003cbr\u003ePlease verify current Tasmanian small-weight seed import requirements before ordering.\u003cbr\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/nre.tas.gov.au\/biosecurity-tasmania\/plant-biosecurity\/small-weight-seed-imports\"\u003eView Tasmanian seed import requirements →\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVIC\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAvailable\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWA\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNot available\u003cbr\u003eSacred Plants Australia does not currently post this seed to Western Australia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eINTERNATIONAL\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConditions apply\u003cbr\u003ePlease confirm your destination's import requirements before ordering. International post is available where permitted. Sacred Plants Australia does not provide phytosanitary certificates.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003csmall\u003eLast Reviewed: 1 October 2026\u003cbr\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/pages\/biosecurity-import-information\"\u003eBiosecurity \u0026amp; Shipping Information →\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/small\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sacred Plants Australia","offers":[{"title":"Starter Pack • 10 Seeds","offer_id":53920140558630,"sku":"CIS-10","price":14.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Best Value Pack • 30 Seeds • Save 33%","offer_id":53920140591398,"sku":"CIS-30","price":29.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1035\/7656\/8102\/files\/sacred-plants-australia-crown-imperial-seeds-fritillaria-imperialis-flowering-colony.png?v=1791062950","url":"https:\/\/sacredplants.com.au\/products\/crown-imperial-seeds-fritillaria-imperialis","provider":"Sacred Plants Australia","version":"1.0","type":"link"}