Tulip Tulipa humilis var. pulchella Albocaerulea Oculata Group (15)
ABOUT
The plant in question is a variety of tulip known by the common name "tulip." This particular group of tulips is visually striking, characterized by their eye-catching flowers. The blooms exhibit a rich color palette, primarily in shades of blue and violet. The center of each flower, often referred to as the eye, is distinguished by a contrasting hue, which gives the appearance of depth and complexity within the flower. The petals are arranged in a classical tulip shape, broad at the base and then tapering to a point at the tips. The overall aesthetic of the flowers is one of elegance and bold coloration, presenting a dramatic display that makes this tulip stand out among other varieties. The foliage is typical of tulips, with green leaves that may have a glaucous or waxy surface, providing a complementary backdrop to the vivid blossoms.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Liliaceae
Synonyms
Tulipa humilis var. pulchella Albocaerulea Oculata Group does not have common names due to its specific cultivar status; it is generally referred to by its botanical name.
Common names
Tulipa humilis var. pulchella Albocaerulea Oculata Group.
ToxicityTo humans
Tulips, including the variety Tulipa humilis var. pulchella, are known to contain allergenic lactones and alkaloids, particularly in the bulb. If ingested, these compounds can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and dizziness. The most severe reactions are typically associated with consuming the bulb, as it has the highest concentration of these compounds. In general, exposure to the plant can also result in skin irritation or an allergic reaction in some people. It is advisable for humans to avoid ingesting any part of tulips and to handle them with care if they have sensitive skin.
To pets
Tulips, including the variety Tulipa humilis var. pulchella, are toxic to pets like dogs and cats. The toxic principles are allergenic lactones and alkaloids, mostly concentrated in the bulbs. If a pet ingests part of a tulip, especially the bulb, they may exhibit symptoms such as gastrointestinal upset, drooling, loss of appetite, or even more serious effects like central nervous system depression and cardiac abnormalities. It's important to keep these plants out of reach of pets and seek veterinary care if ingestion is suspected.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
4-6 inches (10-15 cm)
Spread
3 inches (7.5 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
4-8
Native area
Central Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds vivid color and unique beauty to gardens with its striking blue-eyed flowers.
- Pollinator Attraction: Provides nectar and pollen for bees and other beneficial insects.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Cold Hardiness: Can survive in colder climates, returning each spring when planted as bulbs.
- Compact Growth: Well-suited for rock gardens, borders, or container gardening due to its small size.
- Ease of Propagation: Can be propagated easily through bulb division, allowing gardeners to spread the plant around their garden.
- Seasonal Interest: Blossoms in early to mid-spring, providing early color to the garden after winter.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The crushed petals of the Tulipa can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, granting a subtle color that can vary from pink to yellow, depending on the mordant used.
- Tulip petals are edible and can be used to add a colorful flair to salads or as edible decorations on cakes and pastries, provided they are free of pesticides.
- The sturdy stems of Tulipa humilis can be used in small-scale floral arrangements, adding unique charm to table settings and bouquets.
- Its bulbs can be used in "forcing" techniques to make them bloom indoors during winter, bringing a splash of color to indoor spaces during the darker months.
- When dried and pressed, Tulipa petals can be used in crafting, for example in making bookmarks or in scrapbooking to add natural elements to the design.
- The vibrant blooms can be photographed and used in botanical art, adding aesthetic appeal to nature-themed galleries and exhibits
- Tulip petals, when floated in water, can create serene and decorative water features for garden parties or peaceful home environments.
- The blooming cycle of Tulipa humilis can be used by educators to teach students about plant growth and seasonal changes in hands-on science classes.
- Intricately designed tulip flowers can be a source of inspiration for artists and designers, influencing patterns in textiles and wallpaper.
- Planting Tulipa humilis var. pulchella can function as an indicator plant in a garden, as its bloom time can signal the start of the spring season for other planting activities.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Tulip is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Tulip is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Love: Tulips in general are often associated with perfect or deep love. They are commonly given to convey affection from one person to another.
- Royalty: Tulips, especially those with unique colors or patterns like the Tulipa humilis var. pulchella Albocaerulea Oculata Group, can symbolize regality and an air of nobility.
- Rebirth: As spring-blooming flowers, tulips are symbols of rebirth and new beginnings, which align with their emergence after winter's end.
- Forgiveness: Gifting tulips can also be a gesture of seeking forgiveness or expressing regret, suggesting a desire to mend relationships.
WaterLady Tulip requires moderate watering, especially during its growth and blooming period. Water the soil thoroughly when the top inch feels dry, which typically equates to once every week or two. Ensure the plant receives about half a gallon of water at each watering session, but adjust according to weather conditions. Overwatering can lead to bulb rot, so it's important to let the soil dry out between waterings. During dormancy, after the leaves yellow and die back, reduce watering significantly to prevent the bulbs from rotting.
LightLady Tulip thrives in full sunlight to partial shade, with a preference for the morning sun and afternoon shade in particularly hot climates. The ideal spot for this plant would be a location that receives at least five to six hours of direct sunlight daily. Avoid deeply shaded areas, as this can impede blooming and reduce the vibrancy of the flowers.
TemperatureLady Tulip performs best in a climate with cool to moderate temperatures, favoring spring-like conditions. It can withstand brief periods of frost and is hardy down to about 20°F, with an optimal growing range between 60°F to 70°F during active growth. High temperatures above 80°F may induce dormancy or stress the plant, so it's best grown in seasons with cooler weather or in a climate-controlled environment if excessive heat is a concern.
PruningLady Tulip typically requires little pruning, but spent flowers should be cut back after blooming to redirect energy into bulb strengthening rather than seed production. Simply snip off the faded blooms and any wilted leaves. However, let the foliage die back naturally to allow the plant to gather energy for the next season. The best time for this minimal pruning is late spring or early summer, once the flowers have faded.
CleaningAs needed
SoilTulips require well-draining, sandy loam soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A good mix for the Lady Tulip would be one-third garden soil, one-third sand or grit, and one-third compost or well-rotted organic matter to provide nutrients.
RepottingLady Tulips, being perennial bulbs, do not require frequent repotting and can be left undisturbed for several years. They should be repotted or divided only when they become overcrowded, typically every 3-5 years.
Humidity & MistingLady Tulips prefer a dry resting period post-flowering and do not require high humidity. They thrive in average humidity levels typical of temperate climates, with humidity levels around 30-50% being satisfactory.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, cool temps, and plant in well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant in autumn, full sun to partial shade, in well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleTulipa humilis var. pulchella Albocaerulea Oculata Group, also known as the Botanical Tulip, begins its life cycle as a bulb, lying dormant under the soil during the heat of the summer. In the autumn, cooler temperatures and rainfall signal the bulb to develop roots and send up shoots. Throughout the winter, the plant continues to grow slowly, with foliage emerging from the soil. Come spring, the Botanical Tulip produces its distinctive flowers, which can range in color and often have a contrasting eye, attracting pollinators. After flowering, the plant goes into a period of senescence; the foliage dies back, and the bulb stores energy from photosynthesis. The cycle is completed when the bulb enters another dormant phase, awaiting the next autumn to start the growth cycle anew.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating the plant commonly known as Lady Tulip is by dividing its bulb offsets. Typically, this is done in late summer or autumn after the foliage has died back, which is the period when the plant is dormant. During this time, the bulbs can be carefully lifted from the ground, and the offsets that form around the base of the parent bulb can be gently detached. These offsets, when replanted at a depth of around 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) in well-drained soil and at a spacing of approximately 4 inches (10 centimeters) apart, will develop into flowering bulbs over the course of a few seasons. It is essential to ensure that the planting area receives full sun to partial shade and that the soil is kept relatively dry during the summer dormancy period to promote successful propagation.
