Ferula communis subsp. glaucaA whopper of a plant, it forms dramatic stands of finely divided blue-grey foliage and after a few years of building up energy it produces an exuberance of acid-yellow umbels on stout pithy stems. Said to be monocarpic, meaning it flowers once then dies. (Although we have found it to be a true perennial, flowering each year for the last 10 in our own garden). 2.4-3m (8-10ft).
Filipendula rubra ‘Venusta’ AGM.A lovely perennial with fragrant, deep rose-pink frothy flowers in summer. Attractive jagged cut leaves. The species originates from the damp meadows of North America and it excels here in a moist or boggy border. 1.5-1.8m (5-6ft).
Fritillaria acmopetala AGM.For a well-drained rock garden position. Grey-green foliage, flowers subtle shades of green and brown with recurved tips. 30-45cm (12-18”).
Fritillaria camschatcensisWhorled lanceolate leaves on stems 30-60cm (1-2ft) high. Purple-black or bonze purple flowers in May-June.
Fritillaria meleagris Snake’s Head FritillaryA native species of great charm, with pendant nodding bells, prettily marked with a checkerboard effect of pale purples, crimsons, pinks and white, occasionally pure white. Foliage is discreet, dying back cleanly once the show is over, so ideally placed for the early spring border or naturalising in grass. 30cm (12”).
Fritillaria ponticaA native of woods and scrubs in Eastern Europe, greenish flowers in April & May.
Fritillaria pyrenaica AGM.From mountain meadows comes this charming species with flowers of brownish-red with glossy greenish-yellow interiors. Flowering at 30cm (12”) in height during April-May it is ideal for the rock garden.
