Tulip Tulipa 'Calgary Flames' (3)
ABOUT
The Tulipa 'Calgary Flames' is a distinctive variety with a striking color pattern that resembles the flickering flames of a fire. The blossoms of this tulip are cup-shaped and showcase a bold, two-toned color scheme. The petals primarily exhibit a bright yellow hue that is boldly accentuated with red streaks and flames, giving the bloom a dramatic and fiery appearance as though it's mimicking the vibrant colors of the Calgary Flames hockey team's jersey. The contrast between the red and yellow colors is sharp and eye-catching, drawing attention in any garden setting. The foliage is typically green, forming a complementary backdrop that enhances the visual impact of the tulip flowers.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Liliaceae
Synonyms
Calgary Flames Tulip, Flames Tulip
Common names
Tulipa 'Calgary Flames'
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as Tulip is generally not considered highly toxic to humans. However, if ingested, parts of the plant, particularly the bulb, can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain. In more severe cases, dizziness, irregular heartbeat, or difficulty breathing could occur. Contact with the bulbs may also cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals. It's important to keep in mind that children and pets may be more sensitive to the toxic effects of plants.
To pets
Tulips are toxic to pets like cats and dogs. If a pet ingests part of a Tulip, especially the bulb, they could experience symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, and depression. In severe cases, ingestion could lead to an increase in heart rate and changes in respiration. It's crucial to prevent pets from accessing any part of the plant and to seek veterinary attention if you suspect your pet has ingested Tulip material.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
1 foot 6 inches (45-50 cm)
Spread
6 inches (15 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Central Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: The vibrant flowers of the Tulip 'Calgary Flames' draw in bees and other beneficial insects which are essential for pollination.
- Easy to Grow: This tulip variety is well-adapted to a range of climates and soil types, making it easy to cultivate for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Garden Aesthetics: With its unique and striking coloration, this tulip variety contributes to the visual appeal and design of gardens and landscapes.
- Resilient: Tulips, including the 'Calgary Flames' variety, are generally hardy and can withstand cold winters with minimal care.
- Seasonal Interest: Blooming in the spring, they provide bright, early color to gardens after the winter months.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The petals of tulips can be used to create natural dyes for fabrics, offering a range of colors depending on the pH level of the dye bath and the color of the petals.
- Tulip petals can be incorporated into homemade potpourri mixtures, contributing color and a light floral scent to the mixture.
- International symbol: Tulips can be given as a diplomatic gift representing a gesture of goodwill, as they are globally appreciated for their beauty and variety.
- Educational tool: Tulips can be used in schools to educate children about plant biology, life cycles, and the importance of horticulture.
- Flower art: Dried tulip petals can be used to create botanical art, such as framed arrangements or decorative bookmarks.
- Culinary garnish: Although not commonly used, the petals of tulips can be used as an edible garnish on plates for an elegant presentation.
- Photography subject: Due to their vibrant colors and symmetry, tulips often serve as an excellent subject for photographers, both amateurs and professionals.
- Event decorations: The vibrant colors of tulips can be used to create stunning centerpieces or decorations for events such as weddings or parties.
- Ecological studies: Tulips can be used in ecological studies to understand the effects of climate change and seasonality on the flowering times of bulbous plants.
- Color therapy: The vibrant colors of tulips are sometimes used in color therapy to evoke specific emotions or to create an atmosphere in a room.
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 commonly associated with perfect love, representing a deep, unconditional affection.
- Declaration of Love: Giving a tulip, particularly a red one like the 'Calgary Flames', is often seen as a declaration of one's love.
- Renewal and Rebirth: As a herald of spring, tulips symbolize renewal and the rebirth that comes with the season.
- Fame: The vibrant and striking appearance of the 'Calgary Flames' tulip can symbolize one's desire for fame or being in the spotlight.
- Charity: In some cultures, the tulip represents charity, possibly due to its generous blooming and the joy it brings.
WaterTulips, including the 'Calgary Flames' variety, need to be watered thoroughly when they are first planted and during active growth, usually once a week if there hasn't been significant rainfall. It is important to provide them with about 1 inch of water per week, which equates to approximately 0.6 gallons for an area of 10 square feet. Overwatering can be detrimental, leading to bulb rot, so it's crucial that the soil is well-draining. Once the tulips have bloomed and the leaves start to yellow, watering should be reduced to help the bulb go dormant.
LightTulips such as 'Calgary Flames' thrive best in full sun to partial shade. They need at least six hours of direct sunlight each day to flower optimally. It is best to plant them in a spot that receives morning sun and is protected from the harsh afternoon sun, as it can cause the blooms to fade more quickly.
TemperatureThe 'Calgary Flames' tulip can survive temperatures as low as 35°F when dormant, but the ideal growing temperature is between 55°F and 65°F. During their growth period in the spring, daytime temperatures are usually perfect, but make sure to plant them where they are protected from harsh winds. In areas with hot summers, tulips can struggle, so it's essential to provide adequate shade or mulch to keep the bulbs cool.
PruningPruning 'Calgary Flames' tulips involves deadheading the flowers once they have faded to prevent seed production, which can deplete energy from the bulb. The foliage should be left intact until it has died back naturally, usually six weeks after blooming. This process allows the tulips to photosynthesize and gather energy for the next year. The best time to prune is immediately after the blooms have wilted.
CleaningNot needed
SoilThe Tulip 'Calgary Flames' thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of equal parts loam, sand, and organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure will promote healthy growth. Ensure proper drainage to prevent bulb rot.
RepottingTulip 'Calgary Flames' are typically grown from bulbs that do not require frequent repotting. Replant the bulbs annually in the fall before the ground freezes for best results.
Humidity & MistingTulip 'Calgary Flames' prefer outdoor conditions where they can thrive in the ambient humidity. They do not require specific humidity levels but should be planted in a location that emulates their natural temperate environment.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, cool temps, and plant in well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant bulbs in fall, full sun to partial shade, well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleTulipa 'Calgary Flames', commonly known as the Calgary Flames Tulip, begins its life cycle as a bulb planted in the fall, several weeks before the ground freezes. In the spring, the bulb sends up shoots, which develop into leaves and a single stem bearing the flower, characterized by its distinctive red and yellow flames-like petals. After blooming in mid to late spring, the flower is pollinated by insects, which may lead to the production of seed capsules if conditions allow; however, gardeners often remove the spent flowers to encourage the bulb to store energy. As summer progresses, the leaves yellow and die back as the plant enters a period of dormancy. The bulb remains in a dormant state throughout the summer and into the early fall, drawing on stored nutrients to survive and prepare for the next growing season. In the following spring, the cycle resumes as the bulb awakens and produces new growth, continuing its perennial life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
The most popular method of propagation for the Tulip 'Calgary Flames' is through bulb division. This variety of tulip, like others, propagates vegetatively by producing offsets, or bulblets, which are small bulbs that form at the base of the parent bulb. Propagation by division is usually carried out in the late summer or fall, after the foliage of the plant has died back and the bulb has entered a period of dormancy. Gardeners carefully dig up the bulbs and gently separate the bulblets from the mother bulb. These smaller bulbs can then be replanted immediately at a depth of around 6 to 8 inches (approximately 15 to 20 centimeters) and spaced about 4 to 6 inches (approximately 10 to 15 centimeters) apart, where they will grow into a new plant, blooming in the following spring.
