Johnny, the roots are from the bottom and you are correct there is never a stupid question you are only stupid when you don,t ask.
I grow Fritillaria sewerzowii in my normal potting compost and it also grows well in the garden so it is not too fussy.
I am writing this from the wonderful garden of Peter Korn - I am visiting him for a few days and gave two talks at thier Bulb day yesterday to an enthusiastic audience from Sweden, Norway and Denmark.