This species tulip blooms in mid- to late spring with fire-engine-red flowers that look like open, pointed stars with purple centers. It reaches 4-6 inches tall and not quite as wide. Species tulips prefer sharp drainage and plenty of room to grow; they will often naturalize. Most do well in rock gardens, small displays, and containers.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsTulips originate from Central Asian regions with cold winters and dry summers, and they require a cold treatment in order to bloom. They are invaluable for early spring color in bedding schemes, parterres, cottage gardens, and mixed borders. This speices is also suitable for rock gardens.
CareProvide fertile, well-drained soil in full or afternoon sun. In autumn, plant to a depth of two and a half times the height of the bulb; in regions warmer than zone 8, bulbs will need a cold treatment (40° to 45°F for 8-10 weeks).
PropagationImpractical for home gardeners.
ProblemsBulb and root rot, gray mold, slugs, snails, aphids, nematodes, voles.
- Genus : Tulipa
- Zones : 4, 5, 6, 7
- Plant Width : 6 to 12 inches
- Plant Type : Bulbs
- Moisture : Dry to Medium
- Light : Full Sun to Partial Shade
- Uses : Ground Covers
- Bloom Time : Late Spring, Spring
- Growth Rate : Moderate
- Maintenance : Moderate
- Flower Color : Red
- Characteristics : Self Seeds
- Plant Seasonal Interest : Spring Interest
- Plant Height : Under 6 inches
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