Tulip Tulipa 'Capri' (4)
ABOUT
Tulipa 'Capri' is a tulip variety known for its striking and vibrant blooms. The petals of this tulip are substantial, showcasing a rich, saturated color that can range from deep reddish hues to bright, fiery oranges. The cup-shaped flowers are perched atop sturdy stems, gracefully presenting the blooms which radiate a sense of warmth and energy. The vividly colored petals may exhibit a slight sheen, catching the sunlight to create a subtle glimmer. These tulips typically flower in the spring, forming an eye-catching floral display. The leaves of the Tulipa 'Capri' are sword-shaped, providing a lush green backdrop that complements and contrasts with the brilliance of the flowers. The foliage tends to have a slightly wavy or rippled texture, adding to the overall aesthetic appeal of the plant.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Liliaceae
Synonyms
Tulip
Common names
Tulipa 'Capri'
ToxicityTo humans
The Tulipa 'Capri', more commonly known as Tulip, is considered to have low toxicity for humans. However, all parts of the tulip can contain allergenic lactones or similar alkaloids. If ingested in large quantities, tulip bulbs, in particular, may cause stomach upset, dizziness, or diarrhea. It is important to handle tulip bulbs with care, as the dust from them can also cause skin irritation.
To pets
The Tulip is considered toxic to pets, especially cats and dogs. The bulb of the tulip contains the highest concentration of toxins, but all parts of the plant can be harmful if ingested. Symptoms of tulip poisoning in pets may include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and in severe cases, an increase in heart rate and difficulty breathing. If you suspect your pet has ingested tulip, it is important to contact your veterinarian immediately.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
0-1 feet (0-30 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-8
Native area
Central Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Enhances Garden Aesthetics: Tulipa 'Capri' adds vibrant color and visual interest to gardens and landscapes with its striking flowers.
- Attracts Pollinators: Its blooms provide nectar and attract beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies, aiding in the pollination of surrounding plants.
- Seasonal Interest: Its spring bloom adds seasonal charm and a splash of color after the cold winter months.
- Versatile Planting: Can be planted in flower beds, borders, or containers, offering versatility in garden design.
- Cutting Garden Plant: The flowers are suitable for cutting and can be used in floral arrangements to enjoy indoors.
- Low Maintenance: Tulips are generally easy to care for and do not require much maintenance once they are established.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, they can be relatively drought-tolerant, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Symbolism and Meaning: Tulips are often associated with love and happiness, making them a thoughtful choice for gardens and as gifts.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Tulips can be crushed to make natural dyes for fabrics, offering a variety of colors depending on the part of the plant used and the mordant applied.
- The petals of Tulips can be used in the art of potpourri, providing a pop of color and a light scent to the mix.
- Because of their unique shape and structure, Tulip petals can be used in crafts for creating ornaments or decorative additions to gift wrappings.
- Tulip bulbs can be used as a replacement for onions in some recipes, lending a slightly different, sweeter taste to dishes.
- The sturdy stems of Tulips may be woven or braided into small baskets or eco-friendly jewelry items like bracelets.
- Pressed Tulip flowers can be incorporated into paper making, to create a botanical paper with imprints or inclusions of the flowers.
- With their vibrant colors, Tulips are a source for photography projects, often used in macro photography to explore texture and color.
- Petals of the Tulip can serve as natural confetti for outdoor celebrations that require biodegradable materials.
- In the perfume industry, although not common, the sweet fragrance of some Tulip varieties can be used in crafting bespoke fragrances.
- Tulip flowers can be presented as an eco-friendly alternative to bubble wrap, where their petals can cushion small, delicate items during shipping.
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: Tulips often symbolize perfect, deep love. The 'Capri' tulip, with its appealing form and color, signifies this enduring romantic sentiment.
- Rebirth: As flowers that bloom in the spring, tulips are associated with new beginnings and rebirth, making them a fitting symbol for the start of new ventures or a fresh start in life.
- Royalty: The striking appearance of the 'Capri' tulip can denote a sense of royalty and an air of regality, reflecting its stately beauty.
- Wealth and Prosperity: Since tulips were once the subject of a financial bubble in the Netherlands and were considered extremely valuable, they are sometimes associated with wealth and prosperity.
WaterTulips, including the Tulipa 'Capri', should be watered deeply and infrequently. Aim to provide about 1-2 gallons of water per square foot every week during the active growing season. Overwatering can lead to bulb rot, so ensure the soil is well-draining. After the tulips have bloomed and the leaves begin to yellow, you can reduce watering as the plant enters dormancy. During the dormant period, watering can be withheld entirely.
LightThe Tulipa 'Capri' tulip thrives best in full to partial sunlight. They need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day, so positioning them in a spot that receives plenty of morning light with some afternoon shade is optimal. Avoid areas with full shade as this can hinder their growth and flowering potential.
TemperatureTulips, such as the Tulipa 'Capri', prefer cool temperatures and are hardy in environments where the ground does not freeze too deeply. They can survive winter lows of around 14°F, but the ideal growing temperature during the day is between 60°F and 70°F. Night temperatures should be cooler, around 50°F to 55°F, to ensure the best growth and flowering.
PruningPruning of Tulipa 'Capri' tulips is mainly to remove spent flower heads, which encourages the plant to store energy for the next season rather than seed production. After blooming, cut back the flower stalks but leave the leaves to die back naturally. The best time for pruning is once the foliage has turned yellow and dies back, which is typically a few weeks after flowering.
CleaningAs needed
SoilTulips, including the 'Capri' variety, thrive in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A soil mix containing equal parts loam, sand, and compost is ideal for ensuring good drainage and nutrient content.
RepottingTulips generally do not require repotting as they are perennial bulbs. After flowering, the bulbs can be left in the ground where they will bloom annually.
Humidity & MistingTulips, such as 'Capri', prefer average humidity levels and do not have specific humidity requirements.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright indirect light, cool temps, and proper planting depth.
Outdoor
Plant bulbs in fall in well-draining soil; full or part sun.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleTulipa 'Capri', commonly known as the 'Capri' tulip, begins its life cycle when a bulb is planted in well-drained soil in the fall before the winter freeze. In the spring, as temperatures rise and days lengthen, the bulb breaks dormancy and sends up a shoot that develops into a stem and leaves, followed by the distinctive colorful flower. After blooming, which occurs typically in mid to late spring, the flower will wither and the plant enters a period of photosynthesis to replenish the bulb's energy reserves. Once the leaves yellow and die back in early summer, the tulip enters a dormant phase where it remains underground as a bulb. During dormancy, the bulb may also divide, producing offsets or "daughter bulbs" that can be separated and grown into new plants. The cycle repeats the following spring when environmental conditions once again favor growth.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
The most popular method of propagating the Tulip 'Capri' (Tulipa 'Capri') is through division of the bulb offsets. This usually takes place in the fall, when the foliage has yellowed and died back, typically around September to October. Gardeners should carefully dig up the tulip bulbs and gently separate the small bulbs, known as offsets or bulblets, which have formed at the base of the mother bulb. These offsets are then planted immediately at a depth of about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) apart from each other to allow room for growth. It's important to plant them with the pointed end up and to ensure the location has good drainage and sufficient sunlight. After planting, the bulbs should be watered in to help establish roots before the winter. This method of propagation helps to expand your collection of tulips effectively and maintain the health and vigor of the flowering plants.
