Garden tulip (Tulipa gesneriana) is an ornamental bulbous plant native to southwest Asia. Ottomans brought it to Europe in the 16th century, and it almost instantly became popular, especially amongst Dutchmen. Garden tulip’s showy flowers are usually red or orange, but there are also varieties with purple, pink or yellow flowers.
Garden tulip is native to the fields and meadows of Turkey, and has been naturalized in many Western European countries for several hundred years. It is a popular ornamental flower around the world that has escaped cultivation to gain a foothold in several other temperate nations around the northern hemisphere.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Introduced
No species reported
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Habitat
Cultivated land
Hemisphere Trend Curve
Northern
Sorthern
Flowering
Fruiting
Culture
Garden Use
The garden tulip is a perennial flower commonly found throughout the Balkans region of Europe. Its upright and sweetly scented bright flowers make it perfect as a specimen piece in cottage, city, or courtyard gardens. Growing garden tulip plants together in a group, or with other bulbous flowers, makes for a lovely display in the springtime. Plants such as brunneras or hostas would also accent the lovely colors of its blooms.
Garden tulip flowers are like lotuses. They are rich in color and gorgeous. They are world-famous flower bulbs. In European and American novels and poems, garden tulip flowers are seen as symbols of victory, beauty, and grace.
Name Story
Garden tulip: The word, tulip was derived from "دلبند", pronounced as "delband" in the Persian language with the meaning of turban, in Ottoman Empire around 1554, by diplomat Ogier Ghiselin de Busbecq. This name is chosen because of the similarity in the appearance of a tulip flower to that of a turban. It may have been due to the lost in translation during the time when wearing tulips on turbans was considered fashionable. Possibly, the translator may have been confused with the wording of both the flower and the turban. Also, it also commonly grown in the garden as an ornamental plant, it is then called garden tulip.
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Cultivars
There are several recognized cultivars of Garden tulip, including the following common varieties :
Garden tulip is toxic to cats and dogs. Ingestion, particularly of flowers or bulbs, can lead to symptoms like gastrointestinal upset, drooling, and vomiting. Immediate veterinary care is crucial if poisoning is suspected, ensuring the best recovery for the pet.
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Water:
Garden tulip is a drought-tolerant plant from arid regions, preferring well-drained soil and moderate moisture. Watering once every 1-2 weeks is ideal, allowing soil to dry slightly. Less water is needed during dormancy in colder months, supporting its natural growth cycle.
Fertilize:
For optimal growth, garden tulip benefits from balanced fertilizers, especially high phosphorus types pre-bloom. Apply during active growth and post-bloom every 4-6 weeks, adjusting in dormant phases. Water soil before application, ensure even distribution, and use gloves for safety.
Pruning:
Garden tulip features vibrant, cup-shaped flowers. Prune in early spring by removing spent blooms and yellowing leaves to enhance future blooms and prevent mold. Use sterile tools for disease control. Regular pruning supports overall plant health and encourages robust flowering.
Propagation:
To propagate garden tulip, divide overcrowded bulb clumps after leaf dieback. Separate offsets ensuring each has one growing point, then replant at the correct depth and spacing in well-drained soil. This promotes healthy clones and vibrant blooms.
Repotting:
Repot garden tulip every 2-3 years in the fall after leaves die back. Use a slightly larger pot with well-draining soil and drainage holes. Water sparingly until new growth appears, then continue regular care for vibrant spring blooms.
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