The Snake's Head Fritillary is an attention grabbing bulb which is classed as native, although Gerard (1597) says it was introduced by his friend Jean Robin. It flowers in March and April and can be cut for the vase. Although mostly purple, occasionally you may get a white version. 

The plants are extremely hardy and trouble-free, and are ideal for growing in a variety of situations including containers, sunny spring borders and in wildflower meadows or areas of long grass.

Called the Chequered Daffodil by Gerard because the flowers are "like the board at which men play at chesse". Also known as the Ginny hen flower because the markings are like those of a guinea fowl. Another name is Leopard Lily, a corruption of leper lily, because the bell-shaped flowers were reminiscent of lepers' bells.