Tulip Tulipa 'Mrs John T. Scheepers' (5)
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as 'Mrs John T. Scheepers' tulip is a cultivated variety notable for its striking appearance. This tulip typically boasts large, cup-shaped flowers that are known for their vibrant and eye-catching color. The petals display a rich, golden-yellow hue that can brighten up any garden setting. Inside the flower, the color may intensify towards the base, sometimes showing a deeper yellow or even orange tones. The tulip's petals have a smooth and somewhat waxy texture, giving them a lustrous sheen in the sunlight. They are arranged in an overlapping fashion that forms a symmetrical and elegant bloom, opening wide in full sun. The leaves are broad and lance-shaped, with a deep green color that provides a beautiful contrast to the vivid yellow of the flowers. This tulip variety is also known for its strong, sturdy stems which support the blooms well, making it a favorite choice for cut-flower arrangements where the focus is on the visual appeal rather than the dimensions of the stems. With its bright coloring and graceful shape, 'Mrs John T. Scheepers' tulip is a prominent addition to any springtime floral display or garden design, emanating cheerfulness without any reference to its size.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Liliaceae
Synonyms
Tulip, Garden Tulip
Common names
Tulipa 'Mrs John T. Scheepers'
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as tulip may cause mild irritation if ingested. Although not highly toxic to humans, parts of the tulip, especially the bulb, contain allergenic lactones and other compounds which can lead to symptoms if ingested, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Contact with the bulbs can also cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
To pets
For pets, especially cats and dogs, tulips are considered toxic. The bulb is the most toxic part. If ingested, tulips can cause gastrointestinal upset, drooling, loss of appetite, or even depression of the central nervous system. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to convulsions and changes in heart rate and respiration. Pet owners are advised to seek veterinary care if their pet consumes any part of a tulip plant, with particular concern for the ingestion of the bulbs.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
4-6 inches (10-15 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-8
Native area
Central Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Enhances garden aesthetics - Tulips bring vibrant color and beauty to gardens and landscapes.
- Easy to grow - They are generally easy to plant and require minimal upkeep.
- Attracts pollinators - Tulips can attract bees and other pollinators that are beneficial for the garden ecosystem.
- Seasonal interest - They mark the arrival of spring, providing seasonal interest and joy to gardeners.
- Versatile planting options - Tulips can be planted in flower beds, borders, containers, and can be used for cut flowers.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Tulip 'Mrs John T. Scheepers' petals can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics, providing a range of colors from soft yellows to deep oranges depending on the mordant used.
- The bulbs can be used in a "forcing" process to bloom tulips indoors during the winter to add color to indoor spaces and for winter flower arrangements.
- The sturdy stems of tulips can be used in floral crafts, such as making homemade wreaths or other decorations where dried flowers might be employed.
- Fallen tulip petals can be collected and used to make eco-friendly, biodegradable confetti for celebratory events such as weddings and parties.
- The shape of tulip flowers can inspire artistic designs and patterns in areas such as fashion, textiles, and home decor.
- Tulip petals can be incorporated into homemade potpourris for a subtle floral aroma and splash of color in a natural air freshener mix.
- The pollen of tulips, while not commonly used, can be collected by beekeepers as a source of nutrition for bees in regions where tulips are grown in abundance.
- Used as a subject in photography, tulips can provide a vivid, natural subject matter for still life or macro photography projects.
- During Tulip Festivals, which celebrate the blooming of tulips, the bulbs can be given as living souvenirs for visitors to plant in their own gardens.
- Scientific research can utilize tulips, including the 'Mrs John T. Scheepers' variety, to study the effects of climate change on flowering times and pollinator interactions.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Tulip is not specifically mentioned in classical Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Tulip is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Love: The tulip is widely recognized as a symbol of love, commonly associated with deep passion and perfect love.
- Declaration of Love: Gifting tulips, particularly red tulips, can be a way of declaring one's love to another person.
- Rebirth: Tulips bloom in spring, making them symbols of rebirth and new beginnings, heralding the end of winter and the arrival of freshness.
- Fame: Some tulip varieties are associated with fame and being a perfect or beautiful lover, due to their striking appearance and historically high demand.
- Charity: The tulip's elegantly shaped blossoms have also come to represent charity in floriography or the language of flowers.
WaterThe species tulip, also known as Mrs John T. Scheepers, prefers to be watered moderately. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which typically means watering once a week, with about half a gallon for outdoor plants and less for those in containers. Avoid overwatering, as tulips are susceptible to rot in soggy soil. During the dormant period after blooming and during the summer, watering should be reduced significantly or even stopped altogether until the fall.
LightTulips, including the Mrs John T. Scheepers variety, thrive best in full sunlight. They require at least six hours of direct sunlight per day, so a spot that provides ample morning sunlight with some protection from the intense afternoon sun is ideal. Planting them in a location with good early light promotes strong growth and vibrant blooms.
TemperatureTulips, such as Mrs John T. Scheepers, perform best in environments with cool winters and springs. The ideal temperature range for these tulips is between 35 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit during the growing season. They can survive winter cold down to about -20 degrees Fahrenheit and require a period of cold dormancy to bloom properly.
PruningPruning tulips, including the Mrs John T. Scheepers variety, is straightforward. After blooming, remove the spent flower heads to prevent seed formation, but leave the foliage in place until it turns yellow and dies back naturally. This typically occurs once or twice a year, depending on the blooming period. The best time for pruning is right after the flowers have faded.
CleaningNot needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Tulip 'Mrs John T. Scheepers' is well-draining, loamy soil with added sand or perlite for better aeration and drainage. The optimum soil pH range is between 6.0 and 7.0. Amend heavy clay soils with compost or peat moss to improve texture and fertility.
RepottingTulip 'Mrs John T. Scheepers' bulbs should be planted in the fall and do not require repotting as they are typically treated as annuals. After flowering, bulbs can be lifted, stored, and replanted the following fall.
Humidity & MistingTulip 'Mrs John T. Scheepers' prefer outdoor conditions and do not have specific humidity requirements. They are adaptable to the natural humidity levels found in springtime when they typically bloom.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Plant bulbs in pots with well-draining soil; place in cool, sunny spot.
Outdoor
Plant bulbs 4-6 inches deep in fertile soil; full sun to part shade.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleTulipa 'Mrs John T. Scheepers', commonly referred to as Tulip 'Mrs John T. Scheepers', begins its life as a bulb planted in the fall before the first frost. The bulb undergoes a period of dormancy during the cold winter months, which is crucial for its development. With the onset of spring, warmer temperatures and increased daylight stimulate the bulb to sprout, producing leaves and a stem. The plant then blooms, typically showcasing vibrant yellow flowers, which are pollinated by insects, leading to the development of seeds. After flowering, the plant's foliage dies back and the bulb enters a period of rest during the summer. The cycle repeats when the bulb is triggered to grow again by the cooling temperatures of the approaching fall season.
PropogationPropogation time
Early Autumn
Propogation: Tulipa 'Mrs John T. Scheepers', commonly known as tulips, are typically propagated through division of their bulbs, which is the most popular method. The best time to propagate tulips by bulb division is in the fall, when the bulbs are dormant. After the foliage has died back and the ground is not frozen, carefully dig up the bulbs, gently brushing off any excess soil. You'll often find that the main bulb has produced several offsets, or 'daughter' bulbs. These can be carefully detached and replanted immediately at a depth of approximately 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) in well-draining soil with the pointy end facing upward. It is important to allow enough space between the bulbs, about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters), to ensure they have enough room to grow. This not only helps maintain the health and vigor of the tulips but also increases your stock of these beautiful flowers for the following spring.
