Yellow Jewel Tulip Tulipa linifolia (Batalinii Group) 'Yellow Jewel' (15)
ABOUT
Tulipa linifolia 'Yellow Jewel', commonly known as the wild tulip, is a bulbous perennial adorned with eye-catching, bright yellow flowers. Each flower emerges on a solitary stem, boasting a classic tulip shape with six pointed petals that open wide to display their full glory. The petals are often described as having a waxy or glossy appearance, catching the sunlight and drawing the gaze of onlookers. Inside, the flower's center reveals a contrasting black base, framed by stamens with dark or black anthers. The bright yellow color of the petals gives the plant its distinct 'Yellow Jewel' nickname, resembling precious stones scattered across the landscape. The leaves of the wild tulip are likewise intriguing, typically elongated and narrow, with a glaucous or blue-green hue that sometimes can appear almost silvery. These leaves are often described as lance-shaped, and they grow in a basal rosette from the underground bulb. The foliage provides a striking backdrop to the vibrant blooms and adds to the overall aesthetic of the plant. During its flowering season, this wild tulip catches the eye with its brilliant color, making it a popular choice for gardeners looking to add a splash of sunshine to their garden palettes.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Liliaceae.
Synonyms
Batalin Tulip, Wild Tulip, Species Tulip.
Common names
Tulipa linifolia 'Yellow Jewel'
ToxicityTo humans
The common name of the plant in question is 'Yellow Jewel' tulip. Tulips, in general, are considered to have low toxicity for humans. However, they do contain allergenic lactones and other chemical compounds that can be mildly poisonous if ingested in large quantities. Parts of the plant, particularly the bulb, can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea if ingested. Handling tulip bulbs can also cause allergic reactions in some people, resulting in skin irritation.
To pets
For pets, the 'Yellow Jewel' tulip can also be harmful if ingested. All parts of the tulip, especially the bulb, contain compounds that can be toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. Symptoms of tulip poisoning in pets may include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and depression. In severe cases, ingestion of tulip bulbs can lead to an increased heart rate and changes in respiration. If you suspect your pet has eaten any part of a tulip plant, it is important to consult a veterinarian promptly.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
6 inches (15 cm)
Spread
6 inches (15 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Central Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Adds a bright splash of color to gardens and landscapes.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, making it suitable for casual gardeners.
- Drought Tolerance: Able to withstand periods of low water, making it suitable for dry climates.
- Attracts Pollinators: Flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.
- Seasonal Interest: Provides an early burst of color in spring when many other plants are just emerging.
- Compact Size: Ideal for smaller gardens or containers due to its relatively small stature.
- Bulb Perennial: Can be left in the ground to naturalize and propagate, providing years of enjoyment.
- Cold Hardy: Capable of enduring cold winters, making it suitable for a range of climates.
- Ease of Propagation: Bulbs can be easily divided to create more plants and spread throughout the garden.
- Resistant to Deer: Typically not preferred by deer, which helps to maintain its ornamental beauty.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The petals of Tulip can be used to create natural dyes for fabrics, providing a range of colors from yellow to green depending on the mordant used.
- Crushed Tulip petals can serve as a colorant for artisanal soaps, giving them a delicate hue and a light floral scent.
- Dried Tulip petals can be incorporated into homemade potpourris to add color and a subtle fragrance to a room.
- The sturdy stems of Tulip can be used in floral crafts such as wreath making, providing support and structure to the creation.
- Whole Tulip blooms can be pressed and used in botanical art, capturing their unique form and color in a permanent display.
- Tulip flowers can be floated in bowls of water as a simple yet elegant table centerpiece for events and gatherings.
- Empty Tulip bulb casings can be repurposed as tiny planters for succulents or other small plants, creating an interesting display.
- The bright Yellow Jewel Tulip petals can be used to decorate cakes and desserts for a natural and edible garnish.
- Tulip petals can be laminated to create decorative bookmarks, preserving their beauty in a functional form.
- The bulbs of Tulip can be carved into stamps for craft projects, using the base of the bulb to imprint designs onto various surfaces.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe 'Yellow Jewel' tulip is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe 'Yellow Jewel' tulip is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Perfect Love: The tulip, including the 'Yellow Jewel', often represents perfect, enduring love between partners or family members.
- Cheerfulness: The bright yellow color of the 'Yellow Jewel' tulip is commonly associated with happiness and cheerfulness, embodying a sense of joy and sunshine.
- Thoughtfulness: Gifting tulips can express thoughtfulness, conveying a considerate and caring message to the recipient.
- Optimism: The vibrant hue of yellow tulips, in particular, is symbolic of optimism and the anticipation of good things to come.
- New Beginnings: Tulips are often associated with spring and thus symbolize rebirth and new beginnings.
WaterTulip 'Yellow Jewel' bulbs should be watered thoroughly at planting time. After planting, water them occasionally, only if the weather is very dry. They typically require about 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall. During their active growth in spring, keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Once the foliage begins to die back after flowering, reduce watering as these bulbs prefer drier conditions during dormancy. A total of about 2-3 gallons of water per square foot over the course of the entire growing season is usually sufficient.
LightTulip 'Yellow Jewel' prefers full sun to light shade. The ideal spot for planting these tulips is a location where they will receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. The morning sun is especially beneficial, providing the light they need without the intense afternoon heat, which can sometimes be too harsh.
TemperatureTulip 'Yellow Jewel' can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it performs best when spring temperatures are between 60°F and 70°F. These bulbs require a cold period of several weeks with temperatures below 55°F to initiate blooming. They can survive winter temperatures as low as -40°F and summer temperatures as high as 70°F.
PruningPruning Tulip 'Yellow Jewel' is not necessary for the health of the plant but removing spent flowers after blooming encourages the plant to store energy in the bulb instead of setting seeds. The best time for pruning is shortly after the blooms fade, but leave the foliage intact until it dies back naturally to allow photosynthesis to replenish the bulb.
CleaningAs needed
SoilBatalinii Tulips thrive in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of loam, sand, and organic matter like compost will create the ideal environment. Adding sharp sand improves drainage, crucial for preventing bulb rot.
RepottingBatalinii Tulips, being perennial bulbs, don't require frequent repotting. They can be left undisturbed in the ground for several years, but it's advisable to lift and separate the bulbs every 3-5 years to prevent overcrowding and to rejuvenate the soil.
Humidity & MistingBatalinii Tulips prefer an outdoor climate and do not require specific humidity conditions. They are adaptable to the natural humidity levels of temperate climates and do not thrive in overly humid environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Batalinii Tulip bulbs in cool, bright area; minimal care needed.
Outdoor
Plant in well-drained soil; full sun to partial shade; autumn planting.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleThe life of Tulipa linifolia 'Yellow Jewel', commonly known as the Red Tulip, begins with a dormant bulb which breaks dormancy in late winter or early spring. The bulb sends up a shoot that develops into a stem and leaves, absorbing nutrients and energy through photosynthesis. In spring, the plant flowers, producing a characteristic yellow bloom, after which the flower will be pollinated, potentially leading to seed formation. Once flowering is complete, the plant begins to die back, with the foliage turning yellow and withering away, signaling the end of the growing season. Throughout summer, the bulb remains dormant underground, conserving energy for the next growth cycle. The cycle restarts when the cooler temperatures of autumn signal the bulb to prepare for the upcoming spring growth.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
The most popular method of propagating Tulipa linifolia 'Yellow Jewel', commonly known as the yellow tulip, is through bulb division. This process is best performed in the fall when the plant is dormant. After the foliage has died back, carefully dig up the bulbs from the ground, taking care not to damage them. Gently separate the small offset bulbs, which are clones of the parent plant, from the base of the main bulb. Replant these offsets immediately at a depth of around 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) in well-draining soil that receives full sun to partial shade. Water the newly planted bulbs well to help establish them. With proper care, these offsets will grow and mature into flowering plants over the course of the next few seasons.
