No matter which cultivar you choose, it will bloom early, in February through March. This photo is by Debra Teachout-Teashon. Fritillaria meleagris , also known as the Checkered Lily or Snake's Head, is a plant I grow for its unique, delicate coloring. This photo shows the range of colour shadings. These bulbs prefer moist soil and partial shade, but can also be grown in full sun, as long as they get enough moisture during the growing season.
Good drainage is essential.
It naturalizes well if it's happy. Here's a magnificent photo of a drift of Squill. All four of these bulbs bloom reliably, naturalize well, and will get your garden off to an early start. Little bulbs truly bring big pleasure this time of year. Used under License.