Tulip Tulipa dubia 'Beldersai' (15)
ABOUT
Tulipa dubia 'Beldersai', commonly known as tulip, is a flowering plant that boasts a unique and striking appearance. The main feature of this variety is its blossoms, which are characterized by elegant cup-shaped flowers. These blooms typically come in a vibrant color palette, which may include bold shades such as reds, pinks, yellows, or even multi-colored patterns with different hues blending seamlessly into one another. The petals are smooth and may show a delicate sheen on their surface, sometimes possessing a slight curl at the edges, adding to their distinctiveness. The tulip's foliage is also noteworthy, comprising waxy, blue-green leaves that provide a lush background for the standout flowers. These leaves are generally strap-shaped or lanceolate, with a defined tip and may have a slight wave or curl to their form. The contrast between the verdant leaves and the vivid flowers creates a captivating visual display in any setting. Tulipa dubia 'Beldersai' displays a symmetrical growth pattern, with a central stem that supports the bloom, while the leaves emerge mainly from the base of the stem, creating a clump of greenery at the foot of the flower. The overall structure of the plant exudes elegance and poise, making it a desirable choice for gardeners and flower enthusiasts who wish to add a splash of color and sophistication to their landscapes.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Liliaceae
Synonyms
Beldersai Tulip
Common names
Tulipa beldersai, Tulipa affinis, Tulipa montana.
ToxicityTo humans
The Tulipa dubia 'Beldersai', commonly known as the tulip, contains compounds that can be toxic to humans if ingested. Specifically, tulips contain allergenic lactones and other substances that can cause dermatitis in sensitive individuals. If any part of the plant, particularly the bulb, is eaten, it may lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and dizziness. These symptoms could become severe depending on the amount consumed. Handling the bulbs can sometimes lead to skin irritation, so it is recommended to wear gloves when planting or handling tulip bulbs. If ingested, medical attention should be sought.
To pets
The Tulipa dubia 'Beldersai', known in its most everyday context as the tulip, can be toxic to pets if ingested. The plant, especially the bulbs, contains allergenic lactones and glycosides that can cause symptoms of poisoning in animals. These symptoms might include vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, and in severe cases, an increase in heart rate and changes in breathing. The gastrointestinal upset is common upon ingestion, and with a significant intake, more serious health issues could occur. It is advisable to keep tulips, particularly the bulbs, out of reach of pets and to contact a veterinarian immediately if ingestion is suspected.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1 foot (0.3 meters)
Spread
6 inches (0.15 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
Central Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Decorative Appeal: Adds vibrant color and aesthetic beauty to gardens and landscapes with its striking blooms.
- Pollinator Attraction: Attracts bees and other pollinating insects, supporting local ecosystems.
- Seasonal Interest: Offers a burst of spring color after a long winter, marking the change of seasons.
- Easy to Grow: Generally low maintenance and can thrive in a variety of soil conditions with adequate sunlight.
- Cultural Significance: Often associated with festivals and traditions, symbolizing the arrival of spring.
- Garden Design: Can be used effectively in garden borders, pots, and as cut flowers for indoor decoration.
- Durability: Bulbs can naturalize in the garden, leading to increased numbers and blooms over the years.
- Culinary Use: Certain parts of the tulip can be used in cooking and as garnishes, though it's not common for this specific species.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The petals of the Tulip can be used in salads to add a splash of color and a mild sweet flavor.
- Tulip petals can also be crystallized with egg whites and sugar to create edible decorations for desserts.
- The bulb of the Tulip can be ground to make a starchy flour substitute, which was historically used during times of scarcity.
- Due to their vibrant colors, Tulips are often used in natural dye making for fabrics and wool.
- The sturdy stems of Tulips can be used in flower arrangements to provide support to more delicate flowers.
- Tulips can play a role in companion planting, deterring certain pests in the garden.
- The plant's unique shape can inspire designs and patterns used in textile and fashion industries.
- Tulips can be a source of inspiration for artists and photographers, often being a subject for their works.
- The linear leaves of the Tulip can be used in crafts or as a natural adornment in gift wrapping.
- In some cultures, Tulip bulbs were historically used as a replacement for onions in cooking, although this is not widely recommended due to potential toxicity.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe tulip is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe tulip is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Perfect Love: The tulip is traditionally associated with perfect, deep, or enduring love, often connected to the legend of Farhad and Shirin in Persian culture, and its shape is evocative of a lover's cup.
- Declaration of Love: Gifting tulips can be a means of declaring one's love, with the flower serving as a symbol of the giver’s affection.
- Renewal: As a herald of spring, tulips symbolize rebirth and renewal due to their annual reemergence after the cold winter months.
- Royalty: Tulips carry connotations of elegance and grace, which is often associated with royalty and aristocratic bearing.
- Prosperity: In the 17th century, during the period known as Tulip Mania in Holland, tulips represented wealth and abundance because of the high prices they fetched.
- Briefness of Life: As tulips do not have a lengthy blooming period, they can remind us of the transient nature of life.
WaterEarly morning is the ideal time for watering Tulips to allow the moisture on the leaves to dry out over the course of the day, which helps to prevent fungal diseases. Water the 'Beldersai' Tulips deeply when the soil is dry to the touch, about once a week, with approximately one gallon of water per square yard. During active growth in the spring, they may need more frequent watering, especially if the weather is dry. As they enter dormancy after blooming, gradually reduce watering. Overwatering or waterlogging can cause bulb rot, so ensure good drainage.
LightThe 'Beldersai' Tulip thrives best in full sunlight to partial shade. An ideal spot is one that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day. Areas that offer morning sunlight are particularly beneficial as this helps to quickly evaporate dew from the leaves, reducing disease risk.
TemperatureTulips, including the 'Beldersai' variety, prefer cool springtime temperatures and can tolerate temperatures as low as 35 degrees Fahrenheit. They perform best when daytime temperatures are around 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit and nighttime temperatures are cooler. They may suffer if exposed to temperatures above 75 degrees Fahrenheit for extended periods.
PruningPruning is minimal for 'Beldersai' Tulips. Remove spent flowers after blooming to prevent the plant from using energy to produce seeds. This encourages the return of the tulip bulbs the following spring. Cut back the foliage only after it has yellowed and died down naturally, typically a few weeks after flowering.
CleaningNot needed
SoilFor the best soil mix for Tulips, combine equal parts of sand, fertile loam, and compost to ensure good drainage and nutrient content. The optimal soil pH for Tulips is between 6.0 and 7.0.
RepottingTulips are perennial bulbs and do not require frequent repotting. Repot them every 3-5 years to refresh the soil, or if the bulbs become overcrowded.
Humidity & MistingTulips prefer a moderate humidity level but are generally tolerant of the air moisture found in typical garden environments; they do not have specific humidity requirements.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Tulips in bright, indirect light with cool temperatures indoors.
Outdoor
Plant in well-drained soil; ensure full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleTulipa dubia 'Beldersai', commonly known as the Beldersai Tulip, begins its life cycle as a bulb, which undergoes a period of dormancy during the colder months before initiating growth in the spring. When temperatures rise, the bud within the bulb starts to develop, and shoots emerge from the soil, heralding the vegetative growth stage. The plant produces leaves and a single stem, which leads to the flowering stage, where the distinctive tulip blossom opens, showcasing the plant's reproductive organs. After successful pollination, the flower fades and the plant enters the fruiting stage, where a capsule containing seeds develops. Once the seeds are mature, they are dispersed into the environment, and the plant's foliage dies back, allowing the bulb to enter another period of dormancy until the next growing season. Throughout its life cycle, the Beldersai Tulip relies on periods of active growth and dormancy to survive in its native habitat's seasonal climate.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
For propagating tulips, the most popular method involves using their bulbs. The ideal time for propagation is in the fall, as cooler temperatures allow for root development before the ground freezes. To propagate tulips, one would need to carefully dig up the tulip bulbs from the ground after the foliage has died back and the tulip has entered dormancy. It's essential to handle the bulbs carefully to prevent damage. Once the bulbs are harvested, they can be separated by simply pulling apart the offsets from the mother bulb. These offsets, or daughter bulbs, should then be planted about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) deep in well-drained soil, spaced approximately 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) apart to ensure enough room for growth. The subsequent spring should see the emergence of new tulip plants, blooming as others in its variety.
