Batalin Tulip Tulipa linifolia (Batalinii Group) 'Apricot Jewel' (15)
ABOUT
The 'Apricot Jewel' is a stunning variety of tulip known for its gorgeous floral display. This particular tulip boasts cup-shaped flowers that have a warm, apricot hue, sometimes tinged with a soft rose at the edges. The outer petals may exhibit a more subdued color, often described as creamy or pale yellow, which beautifully complements the richer apricot tones when the flower is fully open. Inside, the base of the bloom reveals a different color, often a deeper yellow that highlights the reproductive parts of the flower. This creates a striking contrast that draws the eye and adds to the visual appeal of the blossom. Each flower is carried on a strong, straight stem that elegantly rises above the narrow, lance-shaped leaves. The leaves are typically a rich green and may have a slight glaucous or waxy coating that gives them a subtle sheen. They often grow in a clump, forming a neat, orderly appearance that contrasts attractively with the soft, romantic blooms above. This tulip is popular in gardens and flower arrangements for its delicate yet vibrant coloring. The rich, yet tender shades of apricot evoke a sense of warmth and evoke thoughts of a serene spring day. Its unique coloration adds a special touch to any planting scheme, making it a favorite among gardeners looking to create eye-catching displays in their spring gardens.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Liliaceae
Synonyms
Apricot Jewel Tulip, Batalin Tulip, Linifolia Tulip
Common names
Tulipa linifolia 'Apricot Jewel'
ToxicityTo humans
Tulip 'Apricot Jewel' is not widely recognized for its toxicity to humans, and it is generally considered to have low toxicity. However, it should be noted that tulips can cause allergic reactions or skin irritation in some individuals. Ingesting parts of the plant, particularly the bulb, may cause digestive upset, such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Contact with the skin, especially with bulb handling, can sometimes lead to dermatitis. It is always recommended to handle plants with care and keep them out of reach of children who may accidentally ingest plant parts.
To pets
Tulip 'Apricot Jewel', like other tulips, is toxic to pets, including cats and dogs. The bulb of the plant contains the highest concentration of allergenic lactones and other compounds that can be harmful if ingested. Symptoms of tulip poisoning in pets can include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and in severe cases, an increase in heart rate and changes in respiration. Typically, the gastrointestinal upset is the most common symptom. If a pet ingests a tulip bulb, immediate veterinary attention is advised to manage the symptoms and prevent more serious complications.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Apricot
Height
1 foot (30 cm)
Spread
6 inches (15 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Central Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Enhances Garden Aesthetics: Adds vibrant apricot-colored blooms to spring gardens.
- Attracts Pollinators: Invites beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies, supporting pollination.
- Easy to Grow: Suitable for novice gardeners due to its low maintenance requirements.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, it can withstand periods of dry weather, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Cold Hardy: Capable of surviving and thriving in cooler temperatures, making it suitable for various climates.
- Naturalizes Well: Can spread and propagate on its own over time, creating a fuller garden display.
- Long Blooming: Provides a long-lasting floral display, usually blooming for several weeks in the spring.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Artistic inspiration: Due to its striking color, Tulipa linifolia can serve as a muse for artists and can be found depicted in paintings, illustrations, and botanical drawings.
- Photography subject: The 'Apricot Jewel' tulip, with its unique shade, is a popular subject for photographers looking to capture the beauty of spring blooms.
- Educational tool: Horticulture programs may use Tulipa linifolia as part of their curriculum to teach about bulbous plant cultivation and care.
- Culinary decoration: Petals of the 'Apricot Jewel' may be used to garnish salads and desserts, although they are not commonly consumed.
- Seasonal festivals: This variety of tulip is often a highlight in spring festivals and garden shows due to its distinctive apricot color.
- Theme gardens: 'Apricot Jewel' can be incorporated into color-themed gardens to create a warm, monochromatic display or a contrasting color scheme.
- Wedding decor: The pastel color of the 'Apricot Jewel' makes it sought after for use in floral arrangements at spring weddings.
- Dye source: While not commonly used for this purpose, the pigments from the petals could theoretically be used to create natural dyes for art or fabric coloring.
- Perfumery: Although tulips are not a primary source for perfumes, the essence of Tulipa linifolia could be utilized in crafting unique floral scents.
- Local tourism: Tulip fields of the 'Apricot Jewel' variety can attract visitors and boost local tourism during the blooming season.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Tulip is not typically used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Tulip is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Love and Passion: Tulips, including 'Apricot Jewel', often symbolize deep love and passion, conveying a sense of warmth and affection.
- Perfect Love: The tulip's symmetrical form has been interpreted as a symbol of perfect love, where 'Apricot Jewel' can represent a refined version of this sentiment.
- Ephemeral Beauty: As a plant that blooms in the spring and then fades, tulips can represent the fleeting nature of beauty and life’s transient moments.
- Royalty: Tulips, particularly those with unique colors like the apricot hues of 'Apricot Jewel', can be associated with elegance and regal presence.
- Prosperity: Historically connected to a period of financial speculation in tulips, they can also symbolize abundance and prosperity.
- Charity and Support: In some cultural contexts, the giving of tulips is a gesture of caring and supportive intentions, suggesting community and shared strength.
WaterRed Hunter tulips should be watered deeply when the soil feels dry to the touch, which is typically about once a week during the active growing season. The amount of water can vary, but generally, a good soaking might range from 1/2 to 1 gallon per plant, depending on soil type and weather conditions. During the dormant period, after the leaves have yellowed and died back, watering should be reduced drastically to prevent bulb rot. It's best to water early in the morning to allow the foliage to dry out during the day, as wet foliage can lead to fungal diseases. Overwatering can be detrimental, as bulbs are prone to rot in soggy soil.
LightRed Hunter tulips require full sun to grow well, meaning they should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. The best spot for these tulips would be an area where they are exposed to the morning sun and protected from the intense heat of late afternoon sun, especially in hotter climates. Dappled sunlight might also be acceptable, but blooming might not be as prolific compared to full sun exposure.
TemperatureRed Hunter tulips thrive in a temperate climate with a significant difference between day and night temperatures, preferring daytime temperatures between 60°F and 70°F. They can tolerate temperatures down to around 20°F but should be protected from prolonged freezing conditions and winter wet. The ideal temperature for the flowering period is around the lower end of the daytime range, as cooler temperatures can enhance the longevity of blooms.
PruningRed Hunter tulips do not require traditional pruning, but spent flowers should be deadheaded after blossoming to prevent seed formation, which can deplete energy from the bulb. Leaves should be allowed to remain until they turn yellow and die back naturally, usually by early summer. This helps the plant to gather energy for the next season's growth. Dead leaves can then be gently removed from the soil surface.
CleaningNot needed
SoilRed Tulip 'Apricot Jewel' prefers well-drained sandy or loamy soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH of 6.0 to 7.0. Amend soil with compost or well-rotted manure and ensure good drainage to prevent water-logging.
RepottingRed Tulip 'Apricot Jewel' bulbs should be lifted and repotted every 3 to 5 years to avoid overcrowding and to refresh the soil.
Humidity & MistingRed Tulip 'Apricot Jewel' tolerates typical outdoor humidity levels but does not require specific humidity conditions as it is a hardy, outdoor plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure full sun, cool temperatures, and good air flow.
Outdoor
Plant in well-draining soil in a sunny location.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycle'Apricot Jewel' tulip, a cultivar within the Tulipa linifolia species, begins its life cycle as a bulb, which is a modified stem adapted to store food during dormancy. In early to mid-spring, the bulb breaks dormancy and sends up shoots, leading to the development of leaves and a single flower stalk, bearing the characteristically brightly colored bloom. After pollination, which can be aided by insects, the flower fades, and the plant focuses on seed production if the flower has been fertilized; otherwise, it proceeds to replenish the bulb's energy stores. The leaves photosynthesize, creating energy that is then transferred back down to the bulb, preparing it for the next season. As summer progresses, the above-ground parts of the plant wither and die back, returning the tulip to dormancy. The cycle repeats the following spring when conditions are again favorable for growth.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
The most popular method of propagating Tulipa linifolia 'Apricot Jewel', commonly known as tulips, is by dividing and replanting their bulbs. This is typically done in the fall when the plants are dormant. To propagate, carefully dig up the mature bulbs, gently separate any small offset bulbs that have formed around the base, and replant them immediately at a depth of about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters). The separated bulbs should be planted in well-drained soil with adequate sun exposure to ensure optimal growth and bloom in the spring. It's essential to allow the foliage to die back naturally after flowering, as this period of rest replenishes the bulb's energy for the next blooming cycle.
