Tulip Tulipa humilis 'Odalisque' (15)
ABOUT
Tulipa humilis 'Odalisque' is known by the more common name of tulip. This particular variety is known for its striking appearance. It generally displays a cup-shaped flower that is cherished for its vibrant color palette and alluring patterns. The blooms of this tulip showcase a rich, deep hue, often a shade of pink, with a captivating gradient that can transition to a lighter color towards the edges of the petals. A distinctive feature of 'Odalisque' is its petals, which can sometimes exhibit a lovely, satiny sheen and may even have a delicate, fringed or feathered look that adds to its elegance. The interior of the flower is equally impressive, typically displaying a contrasting color base or center, which could be yellow or a different shade, adding depth and complexity to the bloom. The center may also have prominent stamens that stand out against the petals’ color. The foliage of 'Odalisque' is also worth noting. The leaves are generally elongated, with a slender and sleek silhouette, and a rich green color that forms a beautiful backdrop to the dramatic blooms. The overall appearance of this tulip variety is one of refined beauty, with a blend of color, texture, and form that makes it a standout in any garden setting. It's a flowering plant that exudes a sense of classic charm and it is often planted for its decorative appeal during its blooming season.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Tulipa Humilis 'Odalisque', Dwarf Tulip, Humilis Tulip, Lady Tulip.
Common names
Tulipa humilis 'Odalisque'.
ToxicityTo humans
Tulip 'Odalisque', like other tulips, is considered mildly toxic to humans if ingested. It contains allergenic lactones and other compounds which can lead to symptoms if eaten in quantity. These symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and dizziness. Significant consumption could lead to more severe reactions and it's particularly important to ensure that children do not consume parts of this plant.
To pets
Tulip 'Odalisque' is also toxic to pets, including cats and dogs. The bulb is the most toxic part of the plant. If a pet ingests a part of a tulip, especially the bulb, it could experience symptoms of poisoning which include gastrointestinal irritation, drooling, loss of appetite, or even central nervous system depression. If large volumes are ingested, it could lead to more serious consequences such as cardiac abnormalities or respiratory difficulties. It's important to keep tulips out of reach of pets and seek veterinary attention if you suspect your pet has ingested any part of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
4-6 inches (10-15 cm)
Spread
2-3 inches (5-8 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Central Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Enhances Garden Aesthetics: Tulipa humilis 'Odalisque', commonly known as the Persian tulip, adds vibrant color and visual interest to gardens during its blooming season.
- Low Maintenance: Persian tulips require minimal care once established, making them a good choice for gardeners of all levels.
- Attracts Pollinators: They are known to attract bees and other beneficial insects, which are important for pollination in the garden.
- Container Gardening: These tulips can thrive in pots or containers, offering flexibility in garden design and space utilization.
- Spring Bloom: The Persian tulip blooms in early spring, providing one of the first bursts of color after winter, filling gardens with life and cheer.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it has a level of drought tolerance, making it suitable for regions with less rainfall.
- Compatible with Other Plants: It can be easily combined with other spring flowers in beds and borders for a layered garden effect.
- Multiplies Over Time: Persian tulips can naturalize and reproduce under the right conditions, expanding their presence in the garden without extra effort.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Tulip petals are edible and can be used in salads for a colorful addition or candied for desserts.
- Tulip bulbs can be used as a substitute for onions in cooking when properly prepared.
- The vibrant colors of Tulip 'Odalisque' can be used as a natural dye for fabrics or in crafting.
- Dried tulip petals can be incorporated into homemade potpourri blends for a subtle fragrance.
- Pressed or dried Tulip 'Odalisque' flowers can be used in bookbinding, scrapbooking, and other paper crafts.
- Floral water infused with tulip petals can be used for fragrance or as a skin-refreshing toner.
- Tulip petals can be frozen in ice cubes to add an elegant touch to drinks for special events.
- Tulip flowers are used in wedding ceremonies, either in bridal bouquets or as decoration due to their deep symbolism and variety of colors.
- The shape and structure of tulip flowers can inspire designs in art, fashion, and home décor.
- Used in photography and still life arrangements as a subject due to their visually appealing and distinctive appearance.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Tulip is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Tulip is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Love: Tulips are commonly associated with deep love and affection. The intense colors of the 'Odalisque' variety further emphasize the strong emotional connotations.
- Perfect Lover: The Tulip 'Odalisque', with its attractive form and hue, is often seen as representing the idea of a perfect lover, perhaps due to its elegance and charm.
- Royalty: The richness of the 'Odalisque' tulip's color can symbolize nobility and regal splendor, attributing a sense of majesty to the flower.
- Prosperity: Historically, tulips have been a sign of wealth, especially during the Tulip Mania in the Dutch Golden Age, and 'Odalisque' being a variety with luxurious appearance perpetuates this symbolism.
- Fame: The standout beauty of the 'Odalisque' tulip denotes fame or the desire for recognition, as its striking presence can hardly go unnoticed.
- Rebirth: Tulips, and specifically the early-blooming varieties like 'Odalisque', are symbols of spring and thus of new beginnings and rebirth.
WaterWhen caring for the 'Odalisque' Tulip, also known as Tulipa humilis 'Odalisque', watering should be done cautiously to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, water the plant thoroughly once a week, providing about 1 gallon per square yard of soil. Adjust the amount depending on rainfall and check soil moisture regularly, as overwatering can lead to bulb rot. During dormancy, after the foliage has died back, cut back on watering and allow the soil to dry out before the next watering cycle.
LightThe 'Odalisque' Tulip thrives in full sun to light shade. It is essential to plant it in a spot where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Sufficient light is crucial for the development of strong stems and vibrant blooms. Avoid deeply shaded areas, as insufficient light can lead to poor flowering and weak growth.
Temperature'Odalisque' Tulips prefer cool to moderate temperatures, thriving best when daytime temperatures are between 50 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit and nighttime temperatures don't drop below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive brief periods of more extreme temperatures, but for optimal growth, maintaining this cooler temperature range is ideal. Bulbs should be planted in the fall for spring blooms when the soil temperature is about 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
PruningPruning 'Odalisque' Tulips involves deadheading spent flowers to encourage the bulbs to store energy for the next growing season. It's not necessary to prune the foliage until it has completely yellowed, which usually occurs a few weeks after blooming. This allows the plant to photosynthesize and gather nutrients. Prune the foliage only when it has died back naturally, typically by late spring or early summer.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Tulip 'Odalisque' thrives best in a well-draining soil mix with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A mixture of loamy soil with added sand and organic matter, such as compost or aged manure, will provide the ideal growing conditions for this plant.
RepottingTulip 'Odalisque' bulbs should be lifted and divided every 3-5 years to maintain vigor and flower production. Repotting is typically done after the foliage has died back in late spring or early summer.
Humidity & MistingTulip 'Odalisque' prefers average outdoor humidity levels and does not require any special humidity considerations, as long as typical outdoor conditions are met.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect sunlight, cool temperature, water sparingly.
Outdoor
Plant in well-draining soil, full sun, water moderately.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleTulip 'Odalisque' begins its life cycle as a bulb, which undergoes a period of dormancy typically during the summer. In the fall, roots start to develop and the bulb prepares for growth, utilizing stored nutrients. Throughout the winter or in early spring, the bulb sends up shoots that develop into leaves and a single flower stem. By mid-spring, the plant blooms, displaying its colorful petals, which is its reproductive phase involving pollination by insects. After flowering, the plant sets seed while the foliage dies back, and the bulb enters another period of dormancy, conserving energy for the next growing season. This cycle repeats annually, with the bulb dividing and producing offsets, gradually forming larger clumps over the years.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
Tulipa humilis 'Odalisque', commonly known as the species tulip or Humilis tulip, is typically propagated by dividing the bulbs. The best time to propagate this plant by bulb division is in the late summer to early fall, after the foliage has died back and the plant is dormant. To propagate, carefully lift the bulb clumps from the ground using a trowel or garden fork, being cautious not to damage the bulbs. Separate the smaller offset bulbs, which are attached to the base of the mother bulb, by gently twisting or pulling them apart. These offsets can then be replanted immediately in well-draining soil at a depth of approximately 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters), ensuring that the pointed end of the bulb is facing upwards. Space these offsets about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) apart to give them enough room to grow. Water the newly planted bulbs lightly to settle the soil around them and wait for them to emerge in the following spring.
