Scarlet Fritillary
Fritillaria recurva
Last reviewed: July 2026
Scarlet Fritillary (Fritillaria recurva) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
part sun
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 4"–8" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
CA, NV, OR
Pollinators
hummingbirds
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Fritillaria recurva, commonly known as Scarlet Fritillary, is a striking native bulb with distinctive nodding bell-shaped red and yellow flowers. It grows 1-3 feet tall with narrow leaves and blooms in spring, creating a delicate woodland accent in gardens.
In an HOA neighborhood
Scarlet Fritillary is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, foundation.
- Goes dormant in summer, leaving bare spots
- Limited visual impact due to narrow growth habit
- Requires careful placement in designed beds rather than as standalone
Wildlife value
The bright red and yellow flowers are particularly attractive to hummingbirds, providing a valuable nectar source during spring months.
Common questions
- How much sun does Scarlet Fritillary need?
- Scarlet Fritillary grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Scarlet Fritillary bloom?
- Scarlet Fritillary blooms in April, May, and June.
- Where is Scarlet Fritillary native?
- Scarlet Fritillary (Fritillaria recurva) is native to CA, NV, OR, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Scarlet Fritillary toxic to dogs?
- Scarlet Fritillary is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Scarlet Fritillary toxic to cats?
- Scarlet Fritillary is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- What pollinators does Scarlet Fritillary attract?
- Scarlet Fritillary draws hummingbirds.
- Is Scarlet Fritillary HOA-friendly?
- Scarlet Fritillary is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Scarlet Fritillary? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz