Cape tulip, Lady Tulip
tulipa clusiana
Also known as: ["Cape tulip","Lady Tulip"]
Overview
A species of tulip native to Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, known for its graceful, slender flowers that bloom in early spring.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Liliales |
| Family: | Liliaceae |
| Genus: | Tulipa |
| Botanical Name: | Tulipa clusiana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock garden, border, or container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–12–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent bulb rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; annually in late spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning (removal of flower stalks only).
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust for intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun; protect from harsh midday sun; ensure good air circulation.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate pots for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid deep shade.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in dormancy
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overhead watering.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure soil dries between waterings; amend with grit if needed.
Temperature
Cool temperatures (40–60°F or 4–15°C) during dormancy; moderate warmth (60–70°F or 15–21°C) during growth.
Protect from frost; avoid placing in drafty areas; maintain consistent temperatures during growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring growth
Apply fertilizer at half strength; fertilize just before flowering; avoid nitrogen-heavy formulas.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation or division of offsets.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate offsets from parent bulb.
- Plant at the correct depth.
- Water lightly.
- Provide consistent conditions.
Best Time: Divide offsets in late summer; sow seeds in autumn.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions for seeds; full sun for offsets; protect from extreme weather.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with sand or perlite for seeds; offsets can be planted directly in garden soil.
Hormone
Not required for offsets; optional for seeds to encourage germination.
Timeline
Offsets may flower in 1–2 years; seeds take 3–5 years to flower.
Tools Needed
Garden trowel, sharp knife, labels, watering can.
Quick Tips
Plant offsets immediately after division; keep seeds moist but not waterlogged; protect young plants from pests.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut flower stalks at the base; do not cut foliage until it dies back naturally.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage bulb development; allow foliage to yellow naturally before removal.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Remove dead flowers; do not cut leaves; allow foliage to photosynthesize.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late summer or early autumn after dormancy ends.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches if repotting in containers.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; plant bulbs at twice their depth; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot only when bulbs become crowded or every 3–4 years; avoid disturbing bulbs during dormancy.
Checklist
Inspect bulbs for damage; use fresh soil; plant at correct depth; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce watering in dormancy.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth in spring; reduce watering in summer dormancy; avoid waterlogged soil.
Soil Improvement
Add sand or perlite for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or premature bulb sprouting in winter; wilting or leaf burn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause root damage or inhibit growth if not properly protected during dormancy.
Solution: Mulch bulbs heavily in winter; plant in well-drained soil to prevent frost heave; protect from extreme cold.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, flower bud abortion, or premature dormancy.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; water deeply during dry spells; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use bulb-specific fertilizer; apply in early spring; water after fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced bulb fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing; discontinue feeding during dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicTulipa clusiana is toxic to cats, with the bulbs being the most dangerous part. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal irritation and other systemic effects due to the presence of toxic glycosides.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe bulbs, leaves, and flowers of Tulipa clusiana are toxic to dogs, containing compounds that can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset and other systemic effects. The bulbs are the most toxic part.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicTulipa clusiana contains toxic compounds, primarily glycosides, which can cause gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects upon ingestion. The bulbs are particularly toxic due to higher concentrations of these compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Tulipa clusiana toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: When does Tulipa clusiana bloom?
A: It typically blooms in early spring.
Q: Does Tulipa clusiana require much maintenance?
A: No, it is a low-maintenance plant once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Liliaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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