Fritillaria meleagris - The Guinea Hen Flower with Checkered Bell-Shaped Blooms (Pre-Order for Fall Planting) Introducing Fritillaria meleagris, also known as The Guinea Hen Flower, The Checkered Lily, or The Snake’s Head Fritillary. This heirloom species, dating back to 1575, is a charming addition to any garden, featuring pendant, bell-shaped flowers with a unique checkered and veined pattern. The blooms come in shades of maroon or ivory-white, accompanied by grass-like foliage intermittently spaced on its slender stems. Fritillaria meleagris is a deer- and rodent-resistant naturalizer that thrives in rich, well-draining soil with neutral pH, and it flourishes in light shade or dappled sunlight. Why Choose Fritillaria meleagris? Unique Checkered Blooms: The distinctive checkered and veined patterns on the maroon or ivory-white flowers make Fritillaria meleagris a truly unique and eye-catching addition to your garden. Heirloom Species: Dating back to 1575, this historical plant adds a touch of timeless beauty and charm to any landscape. Deer and Rodent Resistant: As a naturalizer, Fritillaria meleagris is resistant to deer and rodents, making it a reliable choice for gardens with wildlife concerns. Versatile and Hardy: Native to the western Himalayas and Asia Minor, this species thrives in rich, well-draining soil and prefers a bit of light shade or dappled sunlight. Elegant Naturalizer: Fritillaria meleagris is perfect for naturalizing in woodland gardens, borders, or mixed plantings, where it adds a graceful and understated beauty. Planting Information: Bulb Size: 6 cm/up Bloom Time: April/May Height: Grows to a height of 10” to 12” Sunlight: Thrives in full to partial sunlight Soil Requirements: Prefers rich, well-draining soil with neutral pH Planting Depth: Plant bulbs 5” to 6” deep and 5” to 6” apart Hardiness Zones: Suitable for zones 3-8 Pre-Order Information: Pre-order your Fritillaria meleagris bulbs now to ensure they arrive in time for fall planting. Add the timeless beauty and unique charm of Fritillaria meleagris to your garden. With its distinctive checkered blooms and reliable performance, this plant promises to be a standout feature in your landscape for years to come.