Lady Tulip Tulipa clusiana var. chrysantha 'Tubergen's Gem' (15)
ABOUT
The plant known commonly as Lady Tulip 'Tubergen's Gem' is notable for its striking flower appearance. The flowers have a cup-shaped form, possessing a beautiful blend of colors. The outer petals are a vivid yellow, while the interior petals exhibit a warm, orange-gold hue. These interior petals may also display a mottled or variegated pattern, contributing to the plant's overall aesthetic appeal. The leaves of Lady Tulip 'Tubergen's Gem' are slender and elongated, with a greyish-green tone that provides a subtle backdrop, allowing the vibrant blooms to stand out significantly in any garden setting. The plant typically flowers in the spring, presenting a visual spectacle when the cheery blossoms open to greet the season.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Liliaceae
Synonyms
Lady Tulip, Candlestick Tulip, Clusius' Tulip, Tubergen's Gem
Common names
Tulipa clusiana 'Tubergen's Gem', Tulipa urumiensis 'Tubergen's Gem'.
ToxicityTo humans
Lady tulip, or Tulipa clusiana var. chrysantha, is considered to have a low level of toxicity to humans. If ingested, it can potentially cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The bulb is the most toxic part and can also cause irritation to the mouth and throat. Handling the bulbs may also cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals. It is advisable to exercise caution and prevent ingestion, especially in children and pets, as well as wearing gloves during handling to minimize skin contact.
To pets
Lady tulip, when ingested by pets, can cause gastrointestinal upset including symptoms such as vomiting, drooling, or diarrhea. The bulb of the lady tulip is considered to be the most toxic part, and consuming large quantities could potentially lead to more severe symptoms including increased heart rate and changes in respiration. It is recommended to keep pets away from the plant and to seek veterinary attention if ingestion is suspected.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1 feet (30 cm)
Spread
6 inches (15 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Central Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Enhances Garden Aesthetics: 'Lady Tulip' adds vibrant colors and unique patterns to a garden landscape, making it visually appealing.
- Attracts Pollinators: The bright flowers of 'Lady Tulip' tend to attract bees and other beneficial pollinators that are vital for the ecosystem.
- Easy to Grow: This particular tulip variety is known for being hardy and low maintenance, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, 'Lady Tulip' can withstand periods of dryness, which is beneficial for water conservation efforts.
- Seasonal Interest: Blooming in spring, 'Lady Tulip' provides seasonal interest and marks the arrival of warmer weather.
- Adaptable: It can adapt to a variety of soil types, although it prefers well-drained conditions.
- Container Gardening: Suitable for containers, 'Lady Tulip' is ideal for balconies and patios where ground space may be limited.
- Longevity: With proper care, 'Lady Tulip' can return year after year, making it a perennial favorite in gardens.
- Cutting Garden: Its stems and blooms are excellent for cutting and creating floral arrangements.
- Naturalizing: 'Lady Tulip' has the ability to naturalize in an area and spread over time, creating a fuller garden bed.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography Subject - Lady Tulip's unique coloration provides a fascinating subject for photographers, especially those specializing in macro and plant photography.
- Artistic Inspiration - Artists may use the striking appearance of the Lady Tulip as a model for botanical illustration or as inspiration for various forms of artwork.
- Educational Tool - Botany teachers can use the Lady Tulip to demonstrate plant biology, such as bulb growth or petal anatomy.
- Dye Source - The brightly colored petals of the Lady Tulip may be used to create natural dyes for fabrics or crafts.
- Floral Arrangement Classes - Lady Tulip can be a feature flower in floral design workshops, teaching students how to arrange flowers aesthetically.
- Garden Design - Landscape designers often use Lady Tulip to add a splash of color to early spring gardens.
- Motif in Design - The distinctive shape and color of Lady Tulip make it an interesting motif for designers in fashion, textiles, and home decor.
- Potpourri Ingredient - Dried Lady Tulip petals can be included in potpourri mixes for a subtle scent and decorative appearance.
- Culinary Garnish - Although not commonly consumed, the petals of Lady Tulip may be used to garnish dishes in high-end culinary presentations.
- Ephemeral Jewelry - Temporary jewelry such as rings or necklaces can be crafted with Lady Tulip petals for special occasions like weddings.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiTulips can be used in Feng Shui to promote positive energy and love within a home. Their bright colors and pleasing appearance are thought to bring good luck and happiness when placed in the right area, such as the Love and Marriage gua or in living areas to stimulate social interactions.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe tulip is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Perfect Love: Tulips are often considered a symbol of perfect love, with this variety's vibrant colors possibly symbolizing the passionate aspect of love.
- Rebirth: As harbingers of spring, tulips symbolize rebirth and new beginnings, aligning with the season's theme of renewal.
- Charity: The tulip's graceful form can represent charitable feelings and acts of kindness.
- Hope: The bright, cheerful appearance of the 'Tubergen's Gem' can evoke a sense of hope and optimism.
- Fame: In some cultures, tulips are associated with fame and being the center of attention, perhaps due to their showy and distinct appearance.
WaterLady Tulip should be watered deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, typically every 7-10 days, depending on weather conditions and soil drainage. Ideally, watering should be done in the morning to allow leaves to dry out during the day, reducing the risk of fungal diseases. Provide approximately half a gallon per square foot around the plant's base, focusing on the root zone and avoiding wetting the foliage or flowers directly.
LightLady Tulip thrives best in full sunlight conditions, which means it should receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Place it in an area where it can enjoy unfiltered light throughout the day for optimal growth and bloom production. If planted indoors, a south-facing window is an ideal spot.
TemperatureLady Tulip prefers temperate conditions and can generally withstand temperatures between 35°F and 70°F. However, it will bloom most vigorously when nighttime temperatures are between 40°F and 50°F, and when daytime temperatures are below 65°F.
PruningPruning Lady Tulip involves deadheading spent flowers to encourage more blooms and prevent the plant from spending energy on seed production. Prune after flowering, but leave the foliage in place until it dies back naturally to allow energy to return to the bulb for next year's growth. This typically needs to be done once yearly.
CleaningAs needed
SoilLady Tulip thrives in well-draining sandy or loamy soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH of around 6.0 to 7.5. The ideal soil mix can be created by combining two parts garden soil, one part sand, and one part compost for nutrition and improved drainage.
RepottingLady Tulips are typically grown from bulbs and do not require frequent repotting. Repot the bulbs every 3 to 5 years or when they become overcrowded in their current container to promote healthy growth.
Humidity & MistingLady Tulip prefers average to dry humidity conditions and does not require high humidity levels. It's best suited for typical indoor ambient humidity levels, avoiding excessively humid environments which can lead to bulb rot.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Plant bulbs in fall, in light, cool room with indirect sun.
Outdoor
Plant bulbs in fall in well-drained soil; full sun.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleTulipa clusiana var. chrysantha 'Tubergen's Gem', more commonly known as Lady Tulip, begins its life cycle as a bulb planted in the fall prior to the frost setting in. During late winter to early spring, following a period of dormancy and chilling requirement fulfilled, the bulb breaks dormancy and sends up shoots, which develop into leaves and a single flower stalk. By mid to late spring, the flower blooms, showcasing its distinct yellow petals often streaked with red on the outside. After flowering, the plant goes into a phase of photosynthesis and nutrient storage, and as temperatures rise in late spring to early summer, the foliage yellows and withers, signaling the end of the growth season. The bulb enters a period of dormancy throughout the summer and fall, conserving its resources underground. The cycle repeats annually, with the bulb producing offsets occasionally, which can develop into new plants.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
Tulipa clusiana var. chrysantha 'Tubergen's Gem', commonly known as Lady Tulip, is usually propagated by dividing the bulbs. The optimal time for this method is in the fall, when the plant is dormant. To propagate, one would carefully dig up the bulbs after the foliage has died back, which typically happens by late summer. The offsets, which are smaller bulbs growing at the base of a mature bulb, should be gently separated. These offsets can be immediately replanted in well-draining soil at a depth of about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) and spaced approximately 4 inches (10 centimeters) apart. This method is popular because it helps to maintain the genetic characteristics of the cultivar and results in flowering plants in a shorter period compared to starting from seeds.
