Fritillaria
(Fritillaria sp.)

This purple and white checkered flower droops from thin stems like a Tiffany lamp. The six petals also look like an upside down tulip. Petals, about 2 inches long, appear in mid-spring on stems approximately 6 to 12 inches high. The thin, grasslike leaves are about the same length as the flower stem. 

Soil: Average 
Light: Full sun to part shade 
Planting Depth: 4 inches; F. imperalis, 8 inches 
Planting Distance: 5 inches 

Comments
The fritillaria should be thought of as a unique addition to the garden. It is not a plant for massing, but it is one to locate close to where you and passersby can appreciate it. A relative of fritillaria is the Crown Imperial (F. imperalis), which grows 4 feet high and is topped with a hanging orange flower with leaves atop.