Red Hunter Tulip Tulipa linifolia 'Scarlet'
ABOUT
The Tulipa linifolia 'Scarlet' is a striking plant most commonly known as a type of tulip. It features vibrant scarlet-red flowers, which are a hallmark of this cultivar, adding a pop of color to any garden. The leaves of this tulip are narrow and elongated, presenting a greenish hue that contrasts elegantly with the bright flowers. The blossoms of the Scarlet tulip bear a classic shape associated with the tulip family, with petals that form a cup-like structure. During the bloom period, the flowers open up to reveal their full glory under the sun. This tulip variety makes a bold statement when planted in clusters due to its vivid red blooming. Moreover, it is characterized by its sturdy stems that firmly hold the flowers aloft, allowing them to sway gently in the breeze without bending over. This combination of striking color and firm poise makes the Scarlet tulip a favorite among gardeners looking to imbue their floral landscapes with an eye-catching element. Overall, the appearance of the Tulipa linifolia 'Scarlet' is one of vibrant beauty, with its intense red flowers standing out amongst the green foliage, providing a classic and sumptuous visual that is commonly associated with traditional tulip varieties.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Liliaceae
Synonyms
Bokhara Tulip, Scarlet Flax-Leaved Tulip
Common names
Tulipa linifolia 'Scarlet'.
ToxicityTo humans
Tulips, including the Tulipa linifolia 'Scarlet', are generally not highly toxic to humans. However, if ingested, they can cause mild symptoms. All parts of the plant contain compounds that can be irritating to the gastrointestinal system if consumed in large quantities. Symptoms of tulip poisoning may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Skin contact with tulip bulbs may also trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, leading to dermatitis.
To pets
Tulips, including the Tulipa linifolia 'Scarlet', can be toxic to pets, particularly dogs and cats, if ingested. The toxic principle is concentrated in the bulbs of the plant, but all parts can be harmful. Symptoms of tulip poisoning in pets may include gastrointestinal irritation, drooling, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, or even depression of the central nervous system in severe cases. If you suspect your pet has ingested part of a tulip plant, it’s essential to seek veterinary care promptly.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Scarlet
Height
0 feet 6 inches (15 cm)
Spread
0 feet 6 inches (15 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Central Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds vivid color and visual interest to gardens and landscapes with its scarlet-red flowers.
- Pollinator Friendly: Attracts bees and other beneficial insects, aiding in pollination of surrounding plants.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, making it an easy addition for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Seasonal Interest: Blooms in spring, providing seasonal variation and interest in garden designs.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it can tolerate periods of dryness, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Naturalizing: Capable of spreading and naturalizing in an area, which can create a stunning effect as they multiply each year.
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 as a natural dye: The vibrant colors of Tulipa linifolia 'Scarlet' can be used to dye fabrics and papers, creating beautiful red tones.
- Garden pest deterrent: Some gardeners plant Tulips among their vegetables to help deter certain pests that do not prefer the scent or taste of Tulip bulbs.
- Tulip glass inspiration: These Tulips can inspire designers and glassblowers in creating Tulip-shaped glasses, specifically designed to enhance the aroma and taste of certain beverages.
- Art and illustration: Artists may use Tulips as subjects in botanical illustration, harnessing their vivid color for visually striking artwork.
- Festivals and events: T. linifolia 'Scarlet' adds seasonal interest and can be the focal point in spring festivals or Tulip shows, celebrating its peak bloom time.
- Educational use: Schools and nature programs might grow Tulips to teach students about plant biology, reproduction, and the lifecycle of a bulbous plant.
- Wedding decor: The bright red flowers of the Tulip can be used in wedding bouquets and arrangements for a burst of natural color.
- Photography: The striking appearance of Tulipa linifolia 'Scarlet' provides an excellent subject for photographers, especially macro photography enthusiasts.
- Mood enhancement: The presence of vibrant red Tulips in a room or garden can improve mood by adding color and vibrancy to the environment.
- Gastronomy: Although not commonly consumed, some cultures historically used Tulip petals in culinary dishes for their color and mild flavor, after ensuring they are free from pesticides and safe for consumption.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Red Tulip is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Red Tulip is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Love: As a tulip variety, the Tulipa linifolia 'Scarlet' is often associated with love. Its vibrant red color is reminiscent of passionate emotions and an expression of deep affection.
- Perfect Lover: In Persian folklore, the tulip was considered a symbol of the perfect lover, and the deep scarlet hue of this variety might signify a burning and steadfast love.
- Royalty: The regal appearance of the Tulipa linifolia 'Scarlet', with its bold color and elegant shape, can represent nobility and a sense of refinement.
- Prosperity: Tulips in general have been symbolic of abundance and prosperity, possibly due to the 17th-century tulip mania in the Netherlands where they were highly valued and pricy.
- Springtime: As a species of tulip that blooms in the spring, this plant is often symbolic of new beginnings, rebirth, and the departure from winter.
- Charity: The tulip is the emblem of the International Red Cross, signifying charity, support, and humanitarian assistance.
WaterThe Bokhara Tulip should be watered sparingly, as it is susceptible to overwatering, which can lead to bulb rot. It’s crucial to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. During the active growth in spring, you might find yourself watering roughly every five to seven days, depending on the soil and climate conditions. Ideally, provide about one inch of water weekly, but adjust according to rainfall and temperature changes.
LightBokhara Tulips thrive in full sun to partial shade. They prefer a spot that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Avoid locations with very intense afternoon sun, which may be too harsh for the delicate petals. Ensuring adequate sunlight is crucial for robust growth and vibrant bloom production.
TemperatureBokhara Tulips favor cool temperatures, generally thriving in a range between 50°F and 65°F. They can withstand temperatures as low as the upper 20s during their dormant period in winter, but persistent temperatures below this can damage the bulbs. Ideal growing conditions are those that emulate the cool, temperate climates this tulip originated from.
PruningPruning the Bokhara Tulip is typically done after the flowers have faded and includes deadheading the spent blooms. This is to prevent the plant from diverting energy into seed production. Cut back the flower stalks to the base, but leave the foliage in place until it has died back naturally to allow photosynthesis to continue, which recharges the bulb.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Scarlet Tulip thrives best in well-draining, sandy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A mix combining sand, peat, and loam in equal parts can create an ideal growing medium for this plant.
RepottingScarlet Tulips, being perennial bulbs, do not require frequent repotting. They should be replanted every 3 to 5 years to refresh the soil and separate bulbs that have multiplied.
Humidity & MistingScarlet Tulips prefer moderate humidity levels; however, they are mostly tolerant of the ambient outdoor humidity in temperate climates.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light with cool temperatures.
Outdoor
Plant bulbs in autumn; choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleThe life of the Tulipa linifolia 'Scarlet', commonly known as the Scarlet Tulip, begins with dormancy as a bulb underground during the cold months. In early spring, it breaks dormancy, sprouting green leaves and a strong stem as temperatures rise. The plant then blooms, producing its distinctive scarlet-red flowers, which are a key stage for reproduction as they attract pollinators. Following pollination, the flowers fade and the plant sets seed, which can be dispersed to grow new plants. After the flowering stage, the foliage starts to yellow and wither as the plant enters a period of senescence. The bulb then goes into dormancy once again to survive the heat of the summer, completing its annual life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
The most popular method of propagation for the Tulip 'Scarlet' (Tulipa linifolia 'Scarlet') is by dividing and replanting its bulbs. This is ideally done in the fall before the ground freezes. Gardeners should carefully lift the mature bulbs from the soil after the foliage has died back and gently separate any small offset bulbs that have formed. These offsets can be replanted immediately at a depth of about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) and spaced roughly 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) apart to ensure proper growth. This method utilizes the natural reproductive strategy of the plant and usually results in a display of blooms the following spring.
