Water Lily Tulip
tulipa kaufmanniana
Also known as: [" Kaufmann's Tulip","Waterlily Tulip"]
Overview
A species tulip known for its early bloom and distinctive water lily-like flowers that open wide in sunlight.
Benefits & Perks
["early blooming","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","disease resistant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Liliales |
| Family: | Liliaceae |
| Genus: | Tulipa |
| Botanical Name: | Tulipa kaufmanniana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden beds or containers in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent bulb rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added sand or perlite for bulb health.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; annually in late spring/early summer.
- Pruning Intensity: Light (removal of flowers only; foliage removal only after complete dieback).
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) during active growth; partial shade in hot climates to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; provide shade during peak midday hours in hot regions; ensure proper ventilation indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate pots for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in dormancy
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for texture.
Temperature
Cool temperatures (50–65°F or 10–18°C) during growth; tolerate frost but protect from extreme cold.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 weeks during active growth, none in dormancy
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding in late summer; use a low-nitrogen formula.
Propagation
Methods
Division of bulbs after foliage dies back in late spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Dig up clumps.
- Separate bulbs.
- Discard damaged ones.
- Replant at proper depth (2–3 times bulb height).
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when bulbs are dormant but viable for division.
Environment
Cool, dry conditions for storage before planting; well-drained soil post-planting.
Medium
Well-draining bulb mix or sand with a bit of compost.
Hormone
Not required for bulb division.
Timeline
Immediate planting after division; bulbs will establish in the current season and flower the following spring.
Tools Needed
Garden fork, sharp knife, gloves.
Quick Tips
Divide bulbs every 3–4 years to prevent overcrowding; store bulbs in a cool, dry place if not planting immediately.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip flower stalks at the base; allow foliage to photosynthesize until it naturally withers.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers after blooming to redirect energy to bulb development; cut foliage only after it yellows and dies back naturally.
Tools
Hand pruners, scissors.
Checklist
Remove spent blooms; do not cut foliage until yellowed; clean tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late summer or early fall, after dormancy but before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Use a pot 2–3 inches larger in diameter than the bulb cluster.
Method
Gently lift bulbs; remove old soil; replant at proper depth in fresh, well-draining mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot only if bulbs become overcrowded or every 3–4 years to refresh soil.
Checklist
Check for overcrowding; use fresh soil; ensure proper depth; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage. Water until it drains from the bottom, then allow the soil to dry before the next watering.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the soil surface is dry to the touch, typically every 7–10 days during active growth (spring) and reduce frequency to monthly in dormancy (summer).
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or grit to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf yellowing or browning; stunted growth; bud drop; wilting.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage if below freezing.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location; use frost cloth for protection.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause foliage scorch, premature dormancy, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity; water early morning or late evening to reduce evaporation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growth; avoid dormant period.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring); avoid fertilizing in dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to toxicity from Tulipa kaufmanniana, particularly if they ingest the bulbs, which contain concentrated toxic glycosides. Symptoms can range from mild gastrointestinal upset to more severe systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Tulipa kaufmanniana can lead to significant gastrointestinal upset and potential systemic toxicity due to the plant's glycoside content. The bulbs pose the highest risk.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicTulipa kaufmanniana contains toxic glycosides that can cause gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects upon ingestion. The bulbs are particularly concentrated in these compounds, making them the most hazardous part of the plant.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When does Tulipa kaufmanniana bloom?
A: It blooms early in the spring, typically in March or April.
Q: Is Tulipa kaufmanniana toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How should I care for Tulipa kaufmanniana?
A: Plant bulbs in well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade; water moderately during growth and allow bulbs to dry out after flowering.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Liliaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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