About
A sturdy, bulbous bulb to around 50cm in height, with broadly strap-shaped grey-green foliage. Flowers open to a dusky purple, before developing into peony-shaped lilac to dark purple blooms with a splash of dark blue at the base in April to May.
About the genus
Tulipa are bulbous perennials with characteristic flowers, in a wide range of colours, in spring
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeBulbs
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants
ToxicityHarmful if eaten, skin allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Harmful if eaten, skin allergen - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationPlant 10 to 15cm deep in fertile, well-drained soil in a sunny position. Protect from excessive wet and shelter from strong winds. See tulip cultivation
PruningDeadhead after flowering, and allow flower stem and foliage to die down naturally
PropagationPropagate by lifting and separating offsets. See bulb propagation for further advice
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs, aphids and stem and bulb eelworm; squirrels may eat the bulbs
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to tulip fire and bulb rot in poorly drained soil