Tulip Tulipa 'Oxford' (4)
ABOUT
Tulipa 'Oxford', commonly known as the 'Oxford' tulip, is a striking plant known for its bold, showy flowers. The appearance of this tulip cultivar is characterized by its cup-shaped blooms that are large and eye-catching. The petals are typically a vivid red color, often with a slight orange undertone, giving the flowers a fiery appearance that can add a splash of brightness to any garden space. Inside the bloom, the base of the petals may exhibit a darker color, sometimes appearing as a black or yellow blotch, providing a beautiful contrast to the red petals. The leaves of the 'Oxford' tulip are broad and lance-shaped, with a rich green color that complements the dramatic flowers. The foliage may sometimes have a glaucous or waxy coating, adding to the lush appearance of the plant. Overall, the 'Oxford' tulip is prized for its vibrant, colorful blooms that make a statement in springtime displays.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Liliaceae
Synonyms
Oxford Tulip
Common names
Tulipa 'Oxford'.
ToxicityTo humans
The common name of Tulipa 'Oxford' is tulip. Tulips are generally not highly toxic to humans, but they can cause discomfort if ingested. Depending on the part of the plant consumed and the amount, symptoms of tulip poisoning may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and irritation of the mouth and throat. In particular, the bulb of the tulip, which is sometimes mistaken for an onion, contains the highest concentration of toxic substances and can cause more pronounced symptoms if ingested. It's important to seek medical attention if a significant amount of any part of the tulip plant is consumed, especially by children or by individuals with sensitivities.
To pets
The common name of Tulipa 'Oxford' is tulip. Tulips can be toxic to pets if ingested, with the bulb being the most dangerous part. Symptoms of tulip poisoning in pets may include gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting and diarrhea. Pets might also experience excessive drooling, depression, and, in more severe cases, an increased heart rate or changes in breathing. It is important to keep tulips, particularly the bulbs, out of reach of pets and to contact a veterinarian promptly if you suspect your pet has ingested any part of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
3-6 inches (7.5-15 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-8
Native area
Central Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Enhances Aesthetic Appeal: Tulip 'Oxford' adds vibrant color and beauty to gardens and landscapes with its striking red flowers.
- Attracts Pollinators: The blooms attract bees and other beneficial pollinators, supporting local ecosystems.
- Easy to Grow: Tulip 'Oxford' is relatively easy to cultivate and is suitable for beginner gardeners.
- Seasonal Interest: It provides a burst of spring color after a long winter, marking the change of seasons.
- Versatility: This tulip can be planted in flower beds, borders, and containers, providing flexibility in garden design.
- Cut Flower Use: The sturdy stems and attractive blooms make Tulip 'Oxford' an excellent choice for cut flower arrangements.
- Breeding Potential: Tulip 'Oxford' can be used in breeding programs to develop new varieties and hybrids.
- Symbolism and Gift Giving: Tulips often symbolize love and happiness, making them a thoughtful gift for various occasions.
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 as an exotic garnish on desserts and dishes.
- The sturdy stems of tulips can be used in floral arrangements to provide height and structure.
- Tulip flowers can be used to make natural dyes for fabric, with different colors producing different dye shades.
- Crushed tulip petals can add fragrance to homemade potpourris.
- Tulip bulbs can be used as a natural pest repellent in the garden by planting them among other plants that are often attacked by pests.
- During the Ottoman Empire, tulip petals were sewn onto garments for decorative purposes as a sign of affluence.
- In art and photography, tulips can be a subject to practice still-life techniques due to their vibrant colors and distinct shapes.
- Tulip bulbs, when properly hollowed out, have been historically used as replacement for onions in cooking during times of scarcity.
- The pattern and colors of tulip flowers are inspiration for textile designs, including fabrics, wallpapers, and home decor.
- Tulip festivals and shows often utilize the flowers for landscape art, creating large, colorful displays that attract tourists.
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 "Oxford" tulip represents the concept of perfect love, a notion deeply rooted in Turkish and Persian legends where the flower originated.
- Declaration of Love: Giving a tulip, particularly the bright red "Oxford" variety, is a way to declare one's love with the flower's bold presence.
- Enduring Passion: The robust nature of the "Oxford" tulip signifies an enduring passion in relationships, often used to convey long-lasting connections.
- Charity: In the Victorian language of flowers, tulips, in general, are associated with charity, and the "Oxford" tulip continues that symbolism with its generous bloom.
- Royalty: The rich, regal colors of the "Oxford" tulip suggest a connection to royalty and the elegance associated with monarchies.
- Prosperity: Historically, tulips were a sign of prosperity, especially during the Tulip Mania in the 17th century when they were worth a fortune; the "Oxford" tulip can symbolize wishes for wealth and success.
- Spring Joy: As a tulip, the "Oxford" variety heralds the arrival of spring and is often associated with the joy and rejuvenation that the season brings.
WaterTulips, including the Tulipa 'Oxford', should be watered thoroughly when the soil feels dry to the touch. During the growing season, particularly in dry weather, this may mean watering with about 1 inch of water weekly, which is approximately 0.6 gallons per square yard, to moisten the soil to a depth of about 6 inches. Avoid watering the foliage directly to prevent fungal diseases. After blooming, reduce watering as the foliage begins to yellow and die back, signaling the end of the growing season. It's important not to over-water, as tulips are prone to rot in waterlogged soil.
LightTulipa 'Oxford', commonly known as the tulip, thrives in full sun to partial shade. The ideal spot is one that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. They perform best when they are planted in a location where they can soak in the morning sun, as it helps to evaporate dew quickly and reduces the risk of fungal diseases. However, in hot climates, some afternoon shade can help protect the flowers from intense heat.
TemperatureTulips prefer cool to cold winters and temperate springs. The best temperature range for Tulipa 'Oxford' is between 35°F and 70°F. They can often withstand temperatures down to 14°F but should be protected or moved indoors if it gets colder. Ideal spring growth conditions are when daytime temperatures are moderately cool, between 50°F and 65°F, which will also help to prolong their blooms.
PruningPruning tulips, including the Tulipa 'Oxford', is about deadheading and removing spent flowers to prevent seed formation, which can divert energy from the bulb. Pruning is not typically necessary during the flowering season except for removing faded flowers. The best time to prune is right after the blooms have faded. Do not cut back the foliage until it has died back naturally, which is usually late spring or early summer, as this period allows the bulbs to store energy for next year's growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilTulips, including the 'Oxford' Tulip, prefer well-drained soil rich in organic matter. A mix containing equal parts garden soil, compost, and sharp sand or perlite is ideal to promote drainage and fertility. The ideal pH for growing 'Oxford' Tulips is between 6.0 and 7.0, which is slightly acidic to neutral.
Repotting'Oxford' Tulips, like other tulips, don't need to be repotted. They are perennial bulbs that should be planted in the ground or in outdoor containers. After flowering, the bulbs can be lifted and stored in a cool, dry place, then replanted the following autumn.
Humidity & Misting'Oxford' Tulips require outdoor ambient humidity and do not have specific humidity needs. They are well-suited to the natural fluctuations in outdoor humidity levels and do not thrive in indoor humidity conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow 'Oxford' Tulips indoors only in containers with ample light.
Outdoor
Plant 'Oxford' Tulips in fall, full sun or partial shade, fertile soil.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleThe Tulip 'Oxford' begins its life cycle as a bulb, typically planted in the fall a few inches beneath the soil surface. During the winter, the cold temperatures help to break the bulb's dormancy and prepare it for spring growth. In early to mid-spring, the tulip bulb sends up a shoot, leaves, and eventually a single, bright-red flower atop a sturdy stem. After flowering, the petals drop off and the plant enters a foliage period during which it stores energy in the bulb for the next year's growth. Once the leaves yellow and die back in late spring or early summer, the plant goes into a dormant state throughout the summer and early fall. The cycle resumes again with the next cycle of cooling temperatures, readying the bulb for the next bloom season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
The most popular method of propagation for the Tulip 'Oxford' is by dividing the tulip bulbs after the foliage has died back, which typically occurs in late summer to fall. The process involves carefully digging up the tulip bulbs and gently separating the smaller bulblets that have formed around the base of the mother bulb. These bulblets can then be replanted immediately at a depth of about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) apart in well-drained soil. It is important to ensure that the pointed end of the bulb, where the growth will sprout from, is facing upwards. Once planted, the tulip bulblets require minimal care and should bloom in the following spring, given that they have had enough time to root and acclimate before the onset of winter.
