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Tulipa

Common name: Tulip

Tulipa is a genus of about 75 species of spring-blooming bulbous perennials in the lily family (Liliaceae), native to a region stretching from Central Asia to the Mediterranean. Plants grow from a true bulb and typically produce a single cup-shaped flower with six petal-like tepals. Tulips were cultivated in the Ottoman Empire long before becoming an icon of Dutch horticulture.

Care summary

Sun Full sun to light shade
Water Water after planting; keep dry during summer dormancy
Soil Sandy, well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soil
Hardiness Zones 3–8
Mature height 15–70 cm (6–28 in) depending on variety
Pet safe Toxic to cats and dogs, especially the bulbs

Fun facts

  • During the 1630s "Tulip Mania" in the Netherlands, single rare bulbs sold for more than the price of a house.
  • The streaked patterns of the most prized historical tulips were caused by a virus, the tulip breaking virus.
  • Tulips continue to grow and bend toward light even after being cut — they can elongate several centimeters in a vase.
  • Tulips need 10–14 weeks of winter chill to bloom, so they are often pre-chilled or treated as annuals in warm climates.

The Tulipa Patch

1 on xylery

Chlorofilthy BB The kids named this one. Chlorofilthy BB Finally figured out its watering rhythm.
Browse all 1 plants

Common problems

    • Plant bulbs in free-draining soil
    • Raise beds or add grit
    • Discard soft moldy bulbs promptly
    • Remove and destroy infected plants
    • Avoid replanting tulips in affected soil
    • Buy certified disease-free bulbs
    • Cover beds with wire mesh
    • Plant bulbs deeper than usual
    • Remove bulb debris after planting
    • Choose perennial or species tulips
    • Let foliage die back naturally
    • Feed bulbs after flowering finishes