The chocolate lily, Fritillaria biflora var. biflora, is a perennial bulb native to coastal California. It has strap-like green leaves and unique purple-brown bell-shaped flowers that bloom early spring. It grows 6-18 inches tall and is a sensible substitute for non-native lilies and bulbs in gardens. It attracts hummingbirds and insects when in bloom. It requires full sun to light shade, well-drained soil, and summer dry periods after being watered during its winter/spring growth period.

1. Chocolate Lily – Fritillaria biflora var. biflora
(frit-il-AR-ee-uh by-FLOR-uh)
Family: Lilliaceae (Lily Family)
Native to: Coastal Ca from Mendocino to San Diego Counties; uncommon on grassy slopes, mesas,
openings in sage scrub, chaparral, perennial grasslands, usually within several miles of coast.
perennial bulb
mature height: 6-18 in. mature width: 9-12 in.
Bulb-forming perennial with shiny, pale- to medium green strap-like leaves clustered at the base.
Plant dies back to the ground in summer/fall.
Growth characteristics:
Usually blooms in early spring (Feb-Apr) but may be later depending on rainfall.
Flower cluster on stalks above the foliage. Flowers bell-shaped (this plants is sometimes called
‘Mission Bells’), purple-brown with a unique scent. Flowers quite unique among S. CA natives.
Blooms/fruits:
Uses in the garden: Often grown as a pot plant, to feature unique blooms and control soil moisture.
A unique addition to rock gardens, woodland gardens or dry cottage gardens. Great with native
grasses in a dry ‘prairie’ or natural ‘lawn’. Good on the edges of dry shady areas under trees.
Sometimes known as Fritillaria roderickii. 'Martha Roderick' cultivar (from England) has deep redpurple flowers with white patch.
Sensible substitute for: Non-native lilies and other bulbs.
Attracts: Nectar-source for hummingbirds, insects.
Requirements:
Element
Sun
Soil
Water
Fertilizer
Other
Requirement
Full sun to light shade.
Does best in clay soils; well-drained soils of normal pH
Zone 1; needs water during growth period (winter/spring) but requires summer dry
period.
Light dose of fertilizer several times during growth season if grown in container only
Reputation for being difficult to grow. Susceptible to bulb rot if over-watered.
Repot container-grown bulbs in fresh soil every other year.
Management:
Propagation: from seed: fresh seed in fall; cold-treat stored seed
Plant/seed sources (see list for source numbers): 1, 8, 13, 20
by bulb divisions: yes
11/29/07
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