Lily-flowered Tulip Tulipa 'Aladdin' (6)
ABOUT
The Tulipa 'Aladdin' is known for its strikingly beautiful flowers, making it a popular choice in gardens and floral displays. The flower is characterized by a classic tulip shape with a slight flare at the tips, appearing as a series of pointed petals that create a star-like silhouette when viewed from above. The petals exhibit a rich, fiery red color that captivates the eye, often with a glowing, luminous quality in sunlight. A distinctive feature of this tulip variety is the contrasting edges of the petals, which are finely lined with a golden-yellow margin, adding to its allure. The interior of the Tulipa 'Aladdin' reveals a deep and vibrant base color that may look like a burning flame. The center of the flower often contains a contrasting black or dark blue marking, surrounded by a yellow halo, which further accentuates the warm tones of the petals. When in full bloom, the blossoms create a dramatic and eye-catching display that can add an exotic touch to any setting. The foliage of the Tulipa 'Aladdin' is equally appealing, with broad, lance-shaped leaves that have a rich green color. The leaves typically have a slightly wavy or undulating margin, providing a lush backdrop for the magnificent blooms. The overall appearance of this tulip variety is one of elegance and fiery color, with a powerful presence that can make it the focal point of a spring garden.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Liliaceae
Synonyms
Aladdin Tulip, Aladdin's Lily-flowering Tulip
Common names
Tulipa 'Aladdin'
ToxicityTo humans
Tulips, including the Tulipa 'Aladdin', contain compounds that can be toxic when ingested. These compounds include glycosides and alkaloids such as tulipalin A and B. Ingesting tulip bulbs, which are the most toxic part, can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and dizziness. Skin contact with the bulb can also cause dermatitis in sensitive individuals. It is important to handle tulips with care and to avoid ingesting any part of the plant to prevent these negative health effects.
To pets
Tulips are toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. Ingesting any part of the plant, particularly the bulbs, can lead to symptoms of toxicity in pets. These symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and increased heart rate. In more severe cases, ingestion may lead to central nervous system depression, difficulty breathing, and can even be fatal if left untreated. It is crucial to prevent pets from accessing and chewing on tulip plants or bulbs to avoid these harmful consequences.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
1 foot 6 inches (45 cm)
Spread
6 inches (15 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Central Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Visual Appeal: Tulip 'Aladdin' adds vibrant color and beauty to gardens with its striking red and yellow petals, enhancing the visual appeal of any landscape.
- Pollinator Attraction: This variety of tulip can attract bees and other pollinators, supporting biodiversity and aiding in pollination of surrounding plants.
- Easy to Grow: Tulips, including the 'Aladdin' variety, are known for being relatively easy to grow, making them suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Seasonal Interest: Tulips mark the arrival of spring and provide seasonal interest, as they are among the first flowers to bloom after the winter season.
- Adaptable: The tulip 'Aladdin' can adapt to a range of soil types and garden conditions as long as it is provided with adequate drainage and light.
- Cut Flower Use: Due to their long stems and attractive blooms, these tulips make excellent cut flowers for arrangements and bouquets.
- Cultural Symbolism: Tulips are often associated with perfect love and abundance, and they carry cultural significance in many traditions, adding an element of depth to their planting.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography Props - The striking colors of the Tulip 'Aladdin' can be used by photographers to create vibrant and appealing spring-themed photoshoots.
- Eco-Friendly Dye - Petals of the Tulip 'Aladdin' can be boiled down to produce natural dyes for fabrics or artisanal craft projects.
- Wedding Decorations - Because of their bright and joyful color, these tulips can be used in floral arrangements to add elegance to wedding venues.
- Edible Garnishes - The petals of Tulip 'Aladdin', while not commonly consumed, can be used as an edible garnish for gourmet dishes, provided they are free from pesticides.
- Thematic Gardening - This tulip variety can be planted in a garden as part of a larger theme, such as "Arabian Nights" due to its name, to create a story-driven landscape.
- Floristry Education - The Tulip 'Aladdin' can be used by floristry students to practice their skills in flower arrangement and handling techniques.
- Artistic Inspiration - The unique appearance of the Tulip 'Aladdin' can serve as inspiration for artists looking to capture the essence of spring and renewal in their artwork.
- Culinary Classes - These tulips can be utilized in culinary classes to educate students on the use of flowers in cooking, such as crystallizing petals for desserts.
- Bookmark Crafting - Dried Tulip 'Aladdin' petals can be pressed and laminated to create handmade bookmarks for flower enthusiasts and readers alike.
- Seasonal Festivals - The tulips can be incorporated into float decorations or venue designs during festivals that celebrate spring and flower blossoming.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Tulip is not specifically used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Tulip is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Passionate Love: The vibrant red color of Tulip 'Aladdin' is often associated with strong emotional love and desire, making it a symbol of deep affection.
- Perfect Love: Tulips in general have been purported to represent "perfect love," thanks to a Turkish legend that connects the flower to the love story of Farhad and Shirin.
- Prosperity: Tulips were once the most expensive flower, leading to a period known as "Tulip Mania" in the Netherlands; thus, they are sometimes associated with wealth and prosperity.
- Declaration of Love: Giving a Tulip 'Aladdin' is considered a way to declare one's love with its bold presence and color.
- Springtime: As a spring-blooming flower, the Tulip 'Aladdin' represents rebirth and the possibility of new beginnings.
WaterTulip 'Aladdin' should be watered thoroughly when the soil feels dry to the touch, typically once a week during its growing season. Provide enough water to soak the soil around the bulbs, using approximately half a gallon for each plant, ensuring even moisture distribution. During the dormant period after the foliage has died back, reduce watering significantly. It’s crucial to avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot.
LightTulips, including the 'Aladdin' variety, prefer full sun to light shade, thriving in areas that receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. The best spot for these tulips is in an area that is well-lit in the morning with some afternoon shade to protect them from the intense heat of late-day sun.
Temperature'Aladdin' tulips perform best in cooler climates with temperatures ranging between 35 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive winter temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit but should not be exposed to prolonged periods of temperatures over 70 degrees during their growing period. Ideal planting time is in the fall when temperatures are between 40 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure a spring bloom.
Pruning'Aladdin' tulips don't require traditional pruning, but spent flowers should be deadheaded after blooming to prevent seed formation. Prune off the flower heads but leave the foliage until it has died back naturally, which typically happens in late spring or early summer. This allows the plant to gather energy for the next blooming season.
CleaningNot needed
SoilTulip 'Aladdin' thrives in well-draining soil mixed with compost or well-rotted manure; a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal. Use equal parts garden soil, peat, and perlite to create an optimal mix.
RepottingTulip 'Aladdin' bulbs should be lifted and separated every 3 to 5 years, replanted in autumn to ensure vigor and flower production.
Humidity & MistingTulips, including 'Aladdin', prefer moderate humidity but are adaptable; avoid overly humid environments that encourage fungal disease.
Suitable locationsIndoor
For indoor growth, use bright light, cool temps.
Outdoor
In beds with full sun to partial shade, plant in autumn.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA.
Life cycleTulipa 'Aladdin', commonly known as the Aladdin Tulip, begins its life cycle as a bulb, which is planted in the fall before the first frost. As winter ends, the bulb breaks dormancy and the shoot emerges from the soil, with leaves and a flower bud developing in the early spring. The plant enters its flowering stage in late spring, where the distinct, brightly colored blooms open up to attract pollinators. After pollination, the flowers fade and the plant focuses energy on seed production if conditions allow; otherwise, the foliage will die back as the plant enters dormancy. Throughout the summer, the bulb remains underground in a dormant state, storing energy for the next growth cycle. In the following fall, the cycle recommences, with the bulb producing new shoots, leaves, and flowers.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
Propogation: Tulip 'Aladdin' is commonly propagated through the separation of its bulbs. The best time for propagating this tulip variety is in the fall, once the temperatures drop but before the ground freezes. To propagate, gently dig up the mature bulbs without damaging them. You'll often find smaller bulbs, or offsets, attached to the base of the mother bulb. These offsets can be carefully separated by hand and then planted immediately in well-draining soil at a depth of around 6 to 8 inches (approximately 15 to 20 centimeters), spaced about 4 to 6 inches apart (10 to 15 centimeters). This method of propagation allows the new bulbs to establish roots before the winter comes and then bloom in the following spring.
