About

This bulbous perennial, to 45cm tall, with strap-shaped green leaves. Stunning serrated flowers appear in April to May and are green at the base, turning into crimson red through the remainder of the petals.

About the genus

Tulipa are bulbous perennials with characteristic flowers, in a wide range of colours, in spring

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH6

Plant details

Plant typeBulbs
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Coastal, 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 full sun, protect from excessive wet and shelter from strong winds; see tulip cultivation
PruningDeadhead after flowering
PropagationPropagate by lifting and separating offsets; see bulb propagation
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