These bulbous perennials form a small clumping habit with basal light green lanced-shape leaves. The fragrant goblet-shaped single or double flowers are avalable in a wide range of colours and appear above the foliage from mid to late spring.

Hardiness zones 5 to 9

Tulipa species originated from species in Asia across to the Mediterranean region and range in size from 150 mm (6in) to 600 mm (24in) tall.

Generally tulips prefer a hot dry summer and a cold winter and grow in a well-drained fertile sandy to light clay soil that is neutral tending acidic. When planting out select a wind protected sunny to partially shaded position and keep the soil moist during the growing period and are drought tender but frost tolerant.

Tulips are grown for their flowers and are commonly mass planted in bedding displays in parks and public places. They are also planted in small or cottage gardens along perennial borders for colour and grown in patio pots or tubs. The flowers are used in floral arrangements and when potted plants are in flower they are used as an indoor plant. There are many cultivars and they flower well in the first season.ID 312

Tulipa(TEW-li-pa) species

Liliaceae (lil-ee-AY-see-ee)
Lily Family