Lady tulip (Tulipa clusiana)

Lady tulip

Lady tulip (Tulipa clusiana) is a species of tulip that is native to the Middle East. It is often cultivated as an ornamental plant and has become naturalized in many European countries. In the mid-spring, it produces bi-colored blooms of creamy white and red. It has earned the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit.

Scientific classification

Species

Lady tulip (Tulipa clusiana)

Lilies, supplejacks and allies

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial, Annual, Biennial

Lifespan

15 cm to 23 cm

Spread

Green, Silver, Blue, Gray

Leaf Color

10 cm

Flower Size

White, Yellow, Pink, Cream, Purple, Red

Flower Color

Green, Gray, Silver

Stem Color

Summer dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Images of Lady tulip

Distribution of Lady tulip

Distribution Map

Lady tulip is a plant naturally found in the mountainous regions of the Middle East, Central Asia and the western parts of South Asia. Outside its natural range, lady tulip has been introduced and cultivated in various parts of southern and central Europe. Its ability to adapt to diverse climates has facilitated its cultivation beyond its indigenous territories.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Cornfields, rocky slopes, forest openings, dry savannah slopes

Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Lady tulip, including the following common varieties :

Lady tulip 'Peppermint Stick'Lady tulip 'Lady Jane'

Quickly Identify Lady tulip

Graceful tender stems reach 3/4 to 1 foot (22-30 cm) in height.

Bowl-shaped flowers have white/cream inner parts and pink/red outer edges.

Distinctive purple blotch at base of each flower and purple stamens.

Linear leaves are 6-10 inches (15-25 cm) long, grayish-green, and smooth.

Leaves typically appear in groups of 2 to 5 with wavy margins.

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Care Guide for Lady tulip

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from rocky slopes and grasslands, lady tulip thrives in semi-arid conditions and exhibits drought tolerance. Water lady tulip weekly, allowing soil to dry out in between; it requires more moisture during active growth for flowering and less during dormancy to prevent rot.

Fertilize: Lady tulip requires balanced nutrition during growth, with fertilizers applied at planting and as foliage emerges. Use a high-phosphorus formula during flowering, fertilizing every 4-6 weeks. Avoid over-fertilization and withhold during dormancy. Incorporate fertilizers into the soil, avoiding contact with leaves and stems.

Pruning: Lady tulip features star-shaped flowers and thrives with early spring pruning. Remove dead foliage and spent flower stems to boost growth and bulb strength. Preserve green leaves for photosynthesis. Pruning improves air circulation, lowers disease risk, and ensures vibrant blooms for the following season.

Propagation: Originating from rocky slopes, lady tulip thrives in well-drained soils and sunny spots. Propagation is achieved through division, typically in late summer. Careful separation of bulblets is essential for successful replanting, maintaining the original planting depth and allowing space for root development.

Repotting: Repot lady tulip every 2-3 years at the end of dormancy using a deep pot. Provide fast-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot, promoting vibrant spring blooms and allowing lady tulip's unique patterned petals to flourish.

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