Lilac Wonder Tulip Tulipa saxatilis (Bakeri Group) 'Lilac Wonder' (15)
ABOUT
The 'Lilac Wonder' is a charming plant known for its delightful spring display. It produces eye-catching, cup-shaped flowers that have a soft lilac hue with a hint of pink. Each blossom features six petal-like segments, with a distinctive deeper yellow base at the center, creating a beautiful contrast against the lighter petals. The leaves are narrow and long, giving the plant an elegant and slender profile. This variety is appreciated for its ornamental value, bringing a splash of color to gardens and landscapes when it flowers. The Lilac Wonder is a delightful sight when in bloom, with its flowers often attracting pollinators such as bees.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Liliaceae
Synonyms
Candia Tulip, Lilac Wonder Tulip
Common names
Tulipa bakeri, Tulipa saxatilis, Tulipa saxatilis subsp. bakeri.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as 'Lilac Wonder' tulip is not considered highly toxic to humans. However, as with many plants, ingesting parts of the tulip, particularly the bulb, can potentially cause mild stomach upset, nausea, dizziness, or skin irritation in some individuals. It is typically not life-threatening but consuming any part of tulips should be avoided.
To pets
'Lilac Wonder' tulip is toxic to pets, especially cats and dogs. If ingested, the bulb, which contains the highest concentration of toxic compounds, can cause symptoms including vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and even depression of the central nervous system. In severe cases, ingestion may lead to increased heart rate and changes in breathing. It is important to prevent pets from accessing and ingesting any part of the tulip plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Lilac
Height
1 foot (30 centimeters)
Spread
6 inches (15 centimeters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
Crete
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental value: Adds vibrant lilac-pink flowers with a sunny yellow base to gardens in spring.
- Attracts pollinators: Provides nectar and pollen for bees and other beneficial insects, supporting biodiversity.
- Low maintenance: Once established, requires minimal care beyond regular watering and occasional feeding.
- Tolerant of different soil types: Can thrive in a range of soils from sandy to loamy, provided they are well-draining.
- Drought resistance: Once established, has a good tolerance for dry conditions, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Naturalizing: Capable of spreading and naturalizing in suitable climates, creating a self-sustaining display over time.
- Container gardening: Well-suited for pots and containers, excellent for balconies or small gardens.
- Forcing: Can be forced to bloom early indoors, providing a splash of color during late winter or early spring.
- Deer and rodent resistance: Tolerated poorly by deer and rodents, reducing the risk of damage from these pests.
- Seasonal interest: Its blooming time in spring adds seasonal interest to gardens after long winters.
- Cold hardy: Resistant to cold temperatures and frost, making it suitable for cooler climates.
- Easy to propagate: Can be propagated by division, allowing gardeners to easily increase their stock.
- Compact growth: Its relatively small size and neat growth habit make it a good choice for rock gardens and front of border displays.
- Versatile planting: Can be planted in groups for a dramatic effect or interspersed with other spring bulbs for variety.
- Cultural significance: Tulips have symbolic meanings in many cultures, often associated with perfect love and prosperity.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Tulip petals have historically been used as a source for natural dyes, and 'Lilac Wonder' can provide a soft lilac color for fabrics or crafts.
- The sturdy stems of 'Lilac Wonder' can be used in fine basket weaving, adding a touch of color to the finished product.
- Candied 'Lilac Wonder' tulip petals can serve as an edible decoration on cakes and desserts for a unique culinary twist.
- During certain festivals, 'Lilac Wonder' bulbs have been used as a biodegradable alternative to balloons or lanterns for eco-friendly celebrations.
- Petals of the 'Lilac Wonder' can be used in potpourri mixtures to add a soft color and delicate shape.
- 'Lilac Wonder' tulip blooms can be pressed and used in botanical art or to create natural bookmarks.
- Children’s craft projects can utilize fallen 'Lilac Wonder' petals for creating fairy-themed art pieces, due to the delicate and whimsical appearance of the petals.
- By floating 'Lilac Wonder' blooms in a bowl of water, you can create a simple yet elegant centerpiece for springtime tables.
- The bulbs of 'Lilac Wonder' can be used in temperature studies by planting them at different depths to see how they are affected by soil temperature variations.
- 'Lilac Wonder' petals can be frozen in ice cubes to add a floral touch to drinks at a garden party or a spring event.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Tulip is not traditionally used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Tulip is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Love: As a member of the tulip family, the Tulipa saxatilis often symbolizes perfect or deep love.
- Beauty: With its striking lilac-pink color, 'Lilac Wonder' represents beauty and admiration.
- Rebirth: Blooming in the spring, tulips, including 'Lilac Wonder', are commonly associated with new beginnings and rebirth.
- Royalty: The regal hue of this tulip can signify royalty and an air of nobility.
- Confidence: The bold presence of the Tulipa saxatilis in a garden can be a symbol of confidence and strength.
WaterThe Candia tulip prefers consistently moist but well-drained soil during its growing season in spring. Water it thoroughly whenever the top inch of soil feels dry, typically once a week, with about 1 to 2 gallons, depending on the size of the plant and environmental conditions. Reduce watering after the foliage begins to die back following blooming and during the dormant period in the summer, when the bulbs are resting. Overwatering can cause bulb rot, so it's essential to ensure the soil is not waterlogged.
LightThe Candia tulip requires full to partial sunlight to thrive, so placing it in a spot where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day is ideal. A south or west-facing garden or window is typically the best spot, ensuring the plant gets ample light throughout the day while avoiding the harshest midday sun, which might damage the foliage and flowers.
TemperatureThe Candia tulip is tolerant of a range of temperatures but thrives best when daytime temperatures are between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit and nighttime temperatures do not drop below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive temperatures as low as 40 degrees Fahrenheit but should be protected from hard frosts. Ideal growing conditions include cool spring weather, typical of the tulip's natural growing season.
PruningPruning of the Candia tulip is not necessary for the health of the plant, but removing spent flowers after blooming encourages bulb strength. Cutting back the foliage is not recommended until it has yellowed and died back naturally, which indicates that the bulb has stored enough energy for the next growing season. This usually occurs several weeks after flowering has completed.
CleaningNot needed
SoilLilac Wonder tulips thrive best in a well-draining soil mix with a pH range from 6.0 to 7.0. Use a mix composed of two parts garden soil, one part sand, and one part compost to ensure proper drainage and fertility. Amend soil with bone meal to promote strong bulb development and flowering.
RepottingCandia tulips generally do not need frequent repotting. They can be left undisturbed for several years. It's best to repot or divide the bulbs once they become overcrowded and flowering diminishes, typically every 3-5 years.
Humidity & MistingCandia tulip prefers moderate humidity conditions, similar to typical outdoor environments. They are tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels as long as they are not exposed to prolonged dampness, which can promote fungal diseases in the bulbs.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light with cool temperatures.
Outdoor
Plant in well-drained soil, full sun to part shade.
Hardiness zone
5-8 USDA
Life cycleTulipa saxatilis 'Lilac Wonder' starts its life cycle as a bulb, planted in the fall, where it remains dormant below ground level in winter. In early to mid-spring, the bulb breaks dormancy and sprouts, producing lance-shaped leaves and a flower stalk. The single flower stalk grows and tops with typically one large, cup-shaped, lilac-colored flower with a yellow center. After blooming, the plant enters a phase of seed production, where if pollinated, the flower will produce seeds. Following seed set or when the petals drop, the above-ground parts of the plant begin to yellow and die back as the plant enters a summer dormancy phase. The bulb rests until the next fall, when the life cycle begins anew with the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
The Tulipa saxatilis, commonly known as the Lilac Wonder tulip, is typically propagated by dividing and replanting its bulbs. The best time for this is in the fall, when the bulbs are dormant after the foliage has died back. To propagate, carefully lift the mature bulbs from the soil and gently separate any small offset bulbs that have formed. These offsets, also known as daughter bulbs, can be replanted immediately at a depth of about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters), spaced about 4 to 5 inches (10 to 13 centimeters) apart, in well-draining soil with good exposure to sunlight. Over time, these offsets will grow and mature into flowering plants, thus multiplying your Lilac Wonder tulips. This method is both simple and effective, ensuring that the garden will be graced with their beautiful lilac blooms for seasons to come.
