Red Tulip Tulipa linifolia (15)
ABOUT
Tulipa linifolia, commonly known as the red tulip or Bokhara tulip, is a bulbous perennial characterized by its vibrant flowers and narrow foliage. The plant produces a single upright stem which is topped by a striking flower. The flower typically boasts a bold red hue which can vary in intensity from one specimen to another. This red is often accented with a contrasting base color, usually black or yellow, that adds to the visual appeal of the bloom. The leaves of the red tulip are slender and elongated, with a grey-green color that can sometimes appear to be bluish-green. These leaves generally form a rosette at the base of the stem and have a smooth, glossy texture which can sometimes be described as glaucous, giving them a slight sheen. The overall appearance of this tulip is elegant and symbolic of traditional tulip forms, standing out predominantly during the blooming period which brings a splash of color to the environment where it grows.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Bokhara Tulip, Red Tulip, Wild Tulip
Common names
Tulipa biebersteiniana, Tulipa borszczowii, Tulipa suaveolens.
ToxicityTo humans
The Tulipa linifolia, commonly known as the Red Tulip, has a level of toxicity to humans. If ingested, the bulb, which is the most toxic part, may cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and may lead to dizziness and palpitations if consumed in large quantities. The toxicity is primarily due to allergenic lactones or similar alkaloids present in the plant. Skin contact with the bulbs can also cause irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals. As with any toxic plant, it is important to seek medical attention if any part of the Red Tulip is ingested or if a skin reaction develops upon contact.
To pets
The Red Tulip (Tulipa linifolia) is also toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. Ingestion, particularly of the bulbs, can lead to symptoms such as gastrointestinal irritation, drooling, loss of appetite, central nervous system depression, convulsions, and cardiac abnormalities. The alkaloids and glycosides found in the plant are the primary cause of its toxicity. If you suspect your pet has consumed any part of a Red Tulip, it's crucial to contact a veterinarian promptly to mitigate the effects of the poisoning and to receive appropriate care.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
0.5 feet (15 cm)
Spread
0.5 feet (15 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Central Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Tulipa linifolia, commonly known as the Bokhara Tulip, offers bright red, cup-shaped flowers that can beautify gardens and landscapes.
- Low Maintenance: This species is known for being hardy and requiring minimal care once established, making it an excellent choice for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Cold Tolerance: Being native to mountainous regions, the Bokhara Tulip can withstand cold temperatures, making it suitable for temperate climates.
- Drought Resistance: Once established, Tulipa linifolia can tolerate periods of drought, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Attracts Pollinators: The vibrant flowers of the Bokhara Tulip attract bees and other pollinators, aiding in the health and productivity of your garden.
- Spring Interest: Blooming in the spring, this plant can provide an early splash of color after a long, dreary winter, signifying the arrival of warmer weather.
- Naturalizing: The Bokhara Tulip can naturalize over time, spreading and creating more dense displays of color with each passing year.
- Container Gardening: Due to its moderate size, it is well suited for container gardening, allowing those with limited space to enjoy its beauty.
- Versatility: This tulip species can be planted in flower beds, borders, and rock gardens, showcasing its versatility in various garden designs.
- Almost-Deer Resistance: While no plant is completely deer-proof, the Bokhara Tulip is not a preferred food source for deer, reducing the likelihood of it being eaten.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Tulipa linifolia bulbs can be used as a source of glue; the sticky juice can act as an adhesive for small-scale domestic repairs.
- As a natural dye, the petals of Tulipa linifolia may be boiled to extract red pigments for fabric dyeing.
- The fibers from the plant stems of Red Tulip can be worked into a rough textile material useful for crafting purposes.
- Sometimes, the Red Tulip is used in educational settings to demonstrate botanic principles and the life cycle of a bulbous plant.
- Red Tulip petals may be pressed and included in artisanal paper making for decorative accents in handmade paper products.
- The durable nature of Red Tulip leaves can be useful in garden arrangements, where they provide a contrasting texture.
- Individual Red Tulip flowers are occasionally used as natural containers for small servings of appetizers at eco-conscious events.
- Red Tulip blooms may be floated in bowls of water as a decorative element in centerpiece designs for tables and events.
- During spring festivals or celebrations, Red Tulip flowers might be woven into garlands or wreaths symbolizing the arrival of spring.
- The shape and structure of Red Tulip flowers make them suitable subjects for botanical illustration and photography projects.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Red Tulip is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Red Tulip is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Perfect Love: Tulips are often associated with perfect love, and by extension, the Tulipa linifolia shares this symbolic meaning, showcasing an undying and passionate love.
- Ephemeral Beauty: With their brief blooming season, Tulipa linifolia symbolizes the transient nature of beauty and life, reminding us to cherish each moment.
- Renewal: As a herald of spring, this tulip signifies rebirth and new beginnings, embodying the cycle of life and nature’s renewal.
- Charity: In some cultures, the tulip's generous bloom is a symbol of charity and supporting others with its abundance.
- Determination: The Tulipa linifolia often grows in harsh conditions and thus stands for determination and resilience in the face of adversity.
WaterThe Bokhara Tulip (Tulipa linifolia) should be watered regularly during its growing season, generally in the spring, with a reduction in watering after the foliage begins to die back post-bloom. Aim to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy while the plant is actively growing. Water with approximately 1 inch of water per week, taking into consideration rainfall, to ensure the soil is hydrated but not waterlogged, as tulips are prone to rot in overly wet conditions. During dormancy in the summer and fall, watering should be minimal to dry as the bulbs are in their rest period.
LightBokhara Tulip thrives in full sun, which means at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. The ideal spot for planting these bulbs is in an area that receives unobstructed sunlight, such as a south-facing garden bed. While they can tolerate some partial shade, too much shade can result in weak stems and poor flowering.
TemperatureThe Bokhara Tulip prefers cooler temperatures and will bloom in the spring when daytime temperatures are typically between 50 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive winter cold down to about -40 degrees Fahrenheit and requires a period of chill to bloom properly. The ideal temperature range ensures vigorous growth and optimal flowering.
PruningPruning, for the Bokhara Tulip, mainly consists of deadheading the spent flowers after blooming and removing the foliage only after it has yellowed and died back naturally. This usually occurs in late spring or early summer. Pruning is essential to prevent the tulip from expending energy on seed production and to encourage the bulb to store energy for the next growing season.
CleaningNot needed
SoilBatalinii tulips like Tulipa linifolia thrive in well-draining, sandy soil with slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A soil mix incorporating sand and compost supports strong growth.
RepottingBatalinii tulips such as Tulipa linifolia typically don't require frequent repotting and are best repotted only when the bulbs become crowded, every 3 to 5 years.
Humidity & MistingTulipa linifolia, or Batalinii tulips, prefer moderate humidity levels typical of outdoor environments and do not require special humidity adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow in well-lit area with cool temps and good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant bulbs in autumn in well-draining soil in full sun.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleTulipa linifolia, commonly known as Bokhara tulip, begins its life cycle as a bulb, lying dormant underground during the summer. As temperatures drop in autumn, roots start to grow from the base of the bulb. In late winter to early spring, foliage emerges from the ground, followed by the characteristic red, cup-shaped flowers with a yellow center. After pollination, which is primarily by bees, the flowers will produce seed capsules if conditions are suitable. Once the seeds mature, they are dispersed, potentially giving rise to new plants, while the existing plant's foliage dies back, and the bulb enters a period of dormancy until the next growing season. The bulb can also reproduce asexually via daughter bulbs (offsets) which develop around the original bulb.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
Propogation: The most popular method of propagation for the Tulipa linifolia, commonly known as Red Tulip, is by dividing the bulbs. This is ideally done in the fall, just as the temperatures start to decrease but before the ground freezes. Gardeners should gently dig up the bulbs, taking care not to damage them, and then carefully separate any bulblets that are attached to the mother bulb. These smaller bulbs can be replanted immediately, at a depth that is about three times the height of the bulb, typically 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters), ensuring they are placed with the pointed end facing upwards. The bulbs should be spaced about 4 to 6 inches apart to ensure adequate space for growth. Adequate watering following planting is crucial to help establish the bulbs, but the soil should be well-draining to prevent rot.
