The quintessential spring bulb, opening to chalices of every colour after a cold winter chill. In warm Australian climates bulbs need pre-chilling and are best treated as annuals; toxic if eaten.
At a glance
- Plant type: Bulb
- Mature size: 40 cm H × 15 cm W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Tulip
Tulipa gesneriana is a moderate-growing bulb in the Liliaceae family. It reaches around 40 cm tall and 15 cm wide at maturity, with deciduous foliage. Red, yellow, pink, purple, white and orange flowers appear in spring.
Where to grow Tulip
Tulip suits cool-temperate and warm-temperate climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Tulip provided drainage is reasonable. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Tulip does best with regular, moderate watering. Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to support healthy growth. New plantings need closer moisture checks in hot or windy weather, with watering tapered once strong new growth appears.
Pruning & care
Prune Tulip after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Its ongoing care level is moderate maintenance.
Using Tulip in the garden
Tulip earns its place for cut flowers for the vase, pots and courtyard containers and a feature or specimen planting. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
Build the planting around neighbours suited to the same regular, moderate watering and cool-temperate climate as Tulip. Repeating the foliage or flower colour nearby will make the composition feel deliberate.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew. All parts can be toxic if eaten, so keep it away from small children.
Buying Tulip
Plant Sale lists Tulip as bulbs. Use the interest form above to check current sizes, pricing and availability before ordering.
