Lutea Crown Imperial Bulbs

• Variety: Lutea
• Species: Fritillaria imperialis
• Colour: Clear yellow
• Height: 100cm
• Flowering: April–May
• RHS AGM: No
• Sold as: Premium-size dry bulbs, hand-graded
• Plant: September to November
• Delivered: Autumn by courier. Collection from Castle Cary also available

Lutea Crown Imperial – Yellow Bells on a Metre-Tall Spike

If Rubra is the fiery crown imperial, Lutea is the regal one. Clear yellow hanging bells beneath a pineapple-like crown of glossy leaves, carried on a stout stem to a full metre tall. It is the tallest spring-flowering bulb most gardeners will ever grow, and the architectural impact is extraordinary — a single group at the back of a border provides a focal point that nothing else in the April garden can rival.

Like all crown imperials, Lutea has a musky scent from the bulb and foliage that is thought to deter deer and moles. Plant the large bulbs on their side at 20cm deep in well-drained soil — the hollow top must not collect standing water. Once established, leave them undisturbed. They reward patience.

Planting Partners

Plant with Rubra (orange-red) for a crown imperial pair, or use as a towering backdrop to mid-season tulips.

Why Buy From Us?

We grade every batch of bulbs by hand. Undersized or soft bulbs get rejected. Premium-grade, Dutch-grown bulbs with energy to flower strongly. Delivered by courier, guaranteed, Which? Best Plant Supplier. Somerset team if you need advice. Browse all our flower bulbs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall does Lutea grow?

To 100cm — one of the tallest spring bulbs. The flower spike emerges quickly in April and the bells open beneath the leaf crown at the top. It needs no staking in sheltered positions.

Do crown imperials deter moles?

Anecdotally, yes — the musky scent of the bulbs and foliage is said to repel rodents and moles. It is not scientifically proven, but many gardeners swear by it. At the very least, nothing eats the bulbs.

Will Lutea crown imperials come back?

In well-drained soil, reliably for many years. They dislike wet feet — heavy clay without improvement may cause rot. Plant on their side at 20cm deep, and do not move them once established.