Tulip Tulipa humilis (15)
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as Tulipa humilis is a type of wild tulip that is admired for its beautiful and striking flowers. The plant typically bears one flower per stem, displaying a cup or star-shaped bloom that is quite captivating. The petals of this tulip can come in a range of hues, including shades of pink, purple, violet, or even a stunning red. The flower's interior often reveals a different color, sometimes with a bright yellow base that may also feature attractive markings or mottling, adding to its ornamental appeal. The leaves of Tulipa humilis are narrow and lance-shaped, presenting a greyish-green color that provides a subtle backdrop for the vivid flowers. These leaves emanate from the base of the stem, forming a complementary rosette shape around it. Moreover, the plant's overall aspect during its flowering season is particularly striking due to the contrast between the richly colored flowers and the understated elegance of its foliage.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Liliaceae
Synonyms
Aladag Tulip, Dwarf Tulip, Humble Tulip, Persian Pearl Tulip
Common names
Tulipa humilis var. pulchella, Tulipa pulchella, Podonix humilis, Podonix pulchella.
ToxicityTo humans
Tulipa humilis, commonly known as the tulip, has parts that can be considered toxic if ingested. Tulips contain allergenic lactones and other compounds that can cause adverse reactions. In particular, tulip bulbs contain a higher concentration of these toxic substances. If humans ingest tulip bulbs, they may experience symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and dizziness. In some cases, skin contact with tulip bulbs can also cause allergic reactions, such as rashes or irritation. It is generally advised to handle tulip bulbs with care and avoid ingestion.
To pets
Tulipa humilis, more commonly known as the tulip, poses toxicity risks to pets if ingested, particularly dogs and cats. The tulip contains compounds that can cause gastrointestinal upset in pets. Symptoms of poisoning from ingesting parts of the tulip, especially the bulbs, may include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and in severe cases, increased heart rate and difficulty breathing. It is important to keep tulips out of reach of pets to prevent any accidental ingestion. If a pet does consume any part of a tulip, seeking immediate veterinary care is recommended.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
4-6 inches (10-15 cm)
Spread
3 inches (7.5 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Central Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental value: Tulipa humilis, commonly known as "Tulip," adds aesthetic appeal to gardens and landscapes with its vibrant and colorful flowers.
- Pollinator attraction: The bright flowers attract bees and other pollinators, which are essential for the ecosystem and help in the pollination of other plants.
- Symbolism: Tulips often symbolize perfect love and are used in various cultural events and celebrations, adding emotional and cultural value.
- Seasonal interest: Tulips bloom in spring, providing a seasonal interest and marking the transition from winter to spring in temperate regions.
- Educational use: As a recognizably iconic flower, the Tulip can be used for educational purposes in botany and horticulture.
- Ecosystem diversity: By planting tulips, gardeners can contribute to biodiversity by adding a species that provides variety to the local flora.
- Cultural heritage: Tulips have a rich history and are associated with certain cultures, particularly the Dutch, who have been cultivating them since the late 16th century.
- Gardening skill development: Growing tulips can help gardeners develop their skills as they learn to plant, care for, and propagate bulbs.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Tulipa humilis bulbs can be crushed to create a natural glue used for repairing pottery and small artifacts in subtle restoration projects.
- The petals of Tulipa humilis can be used as natural food coloring in dishes for vibrant yellow, red, or pink hues depending on their pigmentation.
- Flower enthusiasts use Tulipa humilis as a natural dye for fabrics, providing a range of colors from the vibrant to pastel shades when mixed with mordants.
- The plant can be part of educational tools in botany courses, demonstrating traits of monocotyledonous plants and bulb growth cycles.
- Tulipa humilis, due to its compact size, is used in miniature gardening, making it an excellent choice for small-scale landscapes and fairy gardens.
- Illustrators and artists can use the varied and striking colors of Tulipa humilis as a real-life reference for botanical artworks.
- The sturdy stems of Tulipa humilis can be used in floral crafts, such as making homemade wreaths or other decorative items.
- Gardeners propagate Tulipa humilis for selective breeding, aiming to produce unique color variations or hybrid tulip species.
- Tulipa humilis flowers are used in perfumery for scent inspiration, especially as a subtle note in spring fragrances.
- As a symbol of spring, Tulipa humilis is often used in cultural festivals and events to signify renewal, particularly in floristry and decorations.
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 often associated with perfect or deep love. Because of its graceful appearance and various colors, it embodies the idea of a love that is both pure and unconditional.
- Rebirth: As tulips are one of the first flowers to bloom in spring, they symbolize rebirth and new beginnings. Their growth from bulbs that have been dormant through winter represents coming into being or renewal.
- Forgiveness: The tulip, especially the purple-colored varieties, can represent an offer of forgiveness or a request for forgiveness, signifying the flowering of an apology or reconciliation.
- Charity: In some cultural contexts, tulips are synonymous with charity and support for the less fortunate, suggesting the flower's role in philanthropic traditions.
WaterThe Persian pearl tulip should be watered moderately during its growing season, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Typically, this means watering once a week with about half a gallon of water per square foot of soil, depending on the local climate and weather conditions. During the dormant period, after the foliage has died back, watering should be reduced drastically to prevent bulb rot. It is essential to provide a well-draining soil to avoid standing water, which could be detrimental to the bulbs.
LightPersian pearl tulips prefer full sunlight to partial shade for optimal growth. The best spot would be an area that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. While they can tolerate some light shade, too much shade can lead to weak stems and poor flowering.
TemperatureThe Persian pearl tulip thrives in a temperature range between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit during its growing season. It can survive winter temperatures down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit. These tulips require a period of cold dormancy, which is typically provided by the winter months.
PruningPersian pearl tulips do not require traditional pruning, but spent flowers should be deadheaded after blooming to prevent seed formation. Leave the foliage to die back naturally, as this helps the plant to gather energy for the next flowering season. Typically, deadheading can be done once the flowers have faded in late spring.
CleaningAs needed
SoilPersian tulip thrives in well-draining, sandy loam soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH, ranging from 6.5 to 7.5. A mix of two parts loam, one part sand, and one part compost would suit its growth. For container growth, ensuring proper drainage is critical.
RepottingPersian tulip bulbs should be lifted and divided every 3-5 years to prevent overcrowding and to maintain plant vigor. It's best to repot them after the foliage dies back in late spring or early summer.
Humidity & MistingPersian tulip prefers low to average humidity levels, typical of outdoor conditions in temperate climates. No special humidity requirements are needed for this plant to thrive.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and cool temps.
Outdoor
Plant bulbs 4-5" deep in autumn, full sun or part shade.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleTulipa humilis, commonly known as the dwarf tulip, begins its life cycle as a bulb, a storage organ that remains dormant during the winter. In early spring, the bulb sends up a shoot above the ground, which will produce narrow, lance-shaped leaves, and a solitary, bell-shaped flower usually appearing in various shades of pink with a yellow center. After pollination, typically by insects attracted to its vibrant colors, the flower produces a capsule containing numerous seeds. The leaves photosynthesize to produce energy, which is stored in the bulb for the next season's growth. Once the flower has faded and the seed is mature, the plant enters a period of dormancy, with the foliage dying back and the bulb resting underground until the return of favorable conditions for growth in the subsequent spring. The cycle repeats annually, with the bulb potentially producing offsets or daughter bulbs, allowing the plant to spread and form small clusters over time.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
Tulipa humilis, commonly known as botanical tulip or wild tulip, is typically propagated by separating and replanting its bulbs. The best time to do this is in the fall when the plant is dormant. To propagate, one should carefully lift the bulbs from the ground after the foliage has died back, usually a few weeks following blooming. The offsets, which are smaller bulbs attached to the main bulb, can be gently detached and replanted at a depth approximately three times the height of the bulb, which is generally about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) deep, depending on the size of the bulb. The bulbs should be spaced about 4 inches (10 centimeters) apart in well-drained soil with adequate sunlight to ensure the best chances of growth in the following season.
