Tulip Tulipa 'Kiev' (14)
ABOUT
Tulipa 'Kiev' (14) is a variety of tulip with a striking appearance that is sure to catch the eye. This plant produces elegant flowers that are characterized by their vibrant coloration and classic tulip shape. The blooms have a strong, upright stance that showcases their cupped form, which gradually opens into a star shape as the flowers mature. The petals of Tulipa 'Kiev' are smooth and have a polished look, with colors that can range from deep purples to striking pinks, often with a hint of lighter tones near the petal edges, creating a delicate contrast. The color may also have a gradient effect, with the intensity of the hue deepening towards the base. The inside of the flower usually reveals a different shade or a contrasting color pattern that becomes more prominent when the flower is fully opened. These tulips commonly have a central cluster of stamens that are topped with pollen-covered anthers, which stand out against the background of the petals. Surrounding the flower, the foliage is typically a fresh, vibrant green, forming a clump of lance-shaped leaves that provide a lush backdrop for the blooms. Overall, the Tulipa 'Kiev' exudes elegance and simplicity. Its beauty lies in the traditional tulip form combined with the eye-catching coloration that makes it a favorite for gardens and floral displays alike. Its well-defined blooms and charming colors are a herald of spring and are often associated with the renewal that the season brings.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Liliaceae.
Synonyms
Tulip, Kiev Tulip.
Common names
Tulipa 'Kiev'
ToxicityTo humans
The Tulip 'Kiev', commonly known as Tulip, can be considered mildly toxic if ingested by humans. The plant contains compounds like glycosides and alkaloids that can lead to symptoms if consumed in large amounts. Symptoms of tulip poisoning may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and irritation of the mouth and throat. Contact with the bulb can sometimes cause allergic reactions or dermatitis in sensitive individuals. It is generally unlikely that touching or handling tulips would cause poisoning, but ingesting parts of the plant, particularly the bulbs, can potentially result in discomfort and digestive upset.
To pets
Tulips are toxic to pets, especially cats and dogs. The plant contains compounds such as glycosides and alkaloids which, when ingested, can cause symptoms. Symptoms of tulip poisoning in pets may include vomiting, depression, diarrhea, and hypersalivation. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to central nervous system depression and cardiac abnormalities. The most toxic part of the plant is the bulb. If a pet ingests any part of a tulip, especially the bulb, it is important to seek veterinary help promptly.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
6-8 inches (15-20 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Central Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Tulips bring striking colors and shapes to gardens, enhancing the visual beauty of the landscape.
- Easy to Grow: They are relatively easy to plant and maintain, suitable for gardeners at all skill levels.
- Attracts Pollinators: Tulips attract bees and other pollinators, which are essential for the health of gardens and ecosystems.
- Seasonal Interest: They provide early spring blooms, offering one of the first signs of spring and adding seasonal interest to gardens.
- Cutting Flower: Tulips are excellent for use in cut flower arrangements and can bring the beauty of the garden indoors.
- Variety of Uses: They can be planted in flower beds, borders, and containers, offering versatility in garden design.
- Symbolism and Gifting: Tulips are often associated with perfect love and rebirth, making them a popular gift in many cultures.
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 used to create natural dyes for fabrics, with the petals of 'Kiev' tulips offering vibrant hues.
- Eco-friendly art supplies such as tulip petal-tinted watercolors can be crafted using the pigment from 'Kiev' tulip petals.
- Petal confetti made from dried 'Kiev' tulip petals can be a biodegradable alternative to traditional paper confetti.
- 'Kiev' tulip petals can be incorporated into hand-made paper, adding color and texture to the finished product.
- Livestock such as sheep and goats can occasionally graze on tulip foliage as part of a varied diet, though care should be taken due to potential toxicity.
- 'Kiev' tulips can be used as a natural pest deterrent in gardens due to certain compounds that are unappealing to some pests.
- Used in molecular gastronomy, 'Kiev' tulip petals can be an edible decoration on avant-garde dishes, adding a splash of color and a mild flavor.
- 'Kiev' tulips can be used in floral perfumery, capturing a soft, spring-like scent note in artisanal fragrances.
- The sturdy stems of 'Kiev' tulips can be used in small-scale plant support structures for other, more delicate flowers in gardens.
- 'Kiev' tulip petals can be incorporated into soaps and bath bombs for their color and subtle, pleasant aroma.
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 often associated with perfect deep love, like many other types of tulips. 'Kiev' can symbolize someone's ideal and unending love.
- Declaration of Love: Tulips are traditionally used to declare one's love with their bold shape and colors. 'Kiev', with its striking appearance, can be used to make a strong statement of love.
- Hope & Cheerfulness: The vibrant blooms of the tulip can represent cheerfulness and hope, offering a sense of joy and optimism to the recipient.
- Renewal & Springtime: As a spring-blooming flower, the tulip, including 'Kiev', stands for new beginnings and the renewal that comes with the spring season.
WaterTulips, being hardy spring bloomers, need to be watered regularly during their growing season. For Tulipa 'Kiev', water thoroughly when the soil is dry to the touch, typically once a week, allowing the soil to dry between waterings. During active growth in the spring, aim for about 1 inch of water each week, which equates to roughly 0.623 gallons for a square foot of soil. Be cautious of overwatering as this can lead to bulb rot, and decrease watering once the leaves start to yellow and die back after blooming.
LightTulips prefer full sunlight to thrive, so Tulipa 'Kiev' should be planted in a spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. Areas that offer morning sunlight are particularly beneficial, as the cooler morning temperatures can help extend the bloom period. While they can tolerate some partial shade, too little light may result in weaker stems and reduced flowering.
TemperatureTulips are cold-hardy plants and Tulipa 'Kiev' is no exception. It requires a period of winter chilling to bloom, with temperatures between 35 and 55°F. They can survive winter temperatures as low as -20°F, but the ideal growing temperature during the spring is between 60 and 70°F. Avoid planting in areas that heat up quickly in the spring, as high temperatures can shorten the bloom time and reduce vitality.
PruningPruning is not typically required for Tulipa 'Kiev' while it's flowering; however, after the tulips have bloomed, deadheading the spent flowers is recommended to prevent seed production. Cut back the flower stems close to the base but leave the foliage in place until it has died back naturally, usually by late spring or early summer, to allow the bulbs to store energy for the next year.
CleaningNot needed
SoilTulips prefer well-draining soil mixed with compost and sand to improve drainage. The best pH for tulips is between 6.0 and 7.0.
RepottingTulips, being perennial bulbs, do not require repotting. Plant bulbs in autumn and leave them to naturalize.
Humidity & MistingTulips tolerate a wide range of humidity levels and do not require specific humidity conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Plant tulip bulbs in pots with drainage and place in a sunny spot.
Outdoor
Plant bulbs in fall, full sun to part shade, in well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA.
Life cycleTulipa 'Kiev', commonly known as the Kiev Tulip, starts its life as a bulb, which undergoes a period of dormancy typically in the summer. As temperatures cool in autumn, the bulb roots develop in preparation for the winter. During the winter, the bulb remains dormant and conserves its energy, waiting for spring. Come spring, the bulb sprouts and produces a stem, leaves, and finally a single flower, completing the vegetative growth stage. After flowering, the plant sets seeds and then the foliage dies back, marking the end of the generative growth stage as the plant reenters dormancy. This cycle repeats annually as long as the bulb remains healthy and conditions are favorable for growth.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating Tulipa 'Kiev', commonly known as the Kiev tulip, is through bulb division. This is typically done in the fall, when the foliage has died back and the bulbs have entered dormancy. Gardeners will carefully dig up the tulip bulbs and gently separate the smaller offset bulbs, which are attached to the base of the main bulb, from the parent. These offsets can be replanted immediately at a depth of about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm), spaced about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) apart to allow for adequate growing space. The offsets will usually flower after one or two seasons, depending on their size and growing conditions. This method leverages the plant's natural reproductive cycle and ensures a true-to-type propagation, maintaining the characteristics of the Kiev tulip.
