Raddi's Tulip
tulipa raddii
Also known as: ["Raddi's Tulip"]
Overview
A species of tulip native to Central Asia, known for its vibrant flowers and hardy nature.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","cold hardy","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Liliales |
| Family: | Liliaceae |
| Genus: | Tulipa |
| Botanical Name: | Tulipa raddii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed in a sunny spot, or container with good drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–12–25°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; bulb-specific mix recommended.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; annually if foliage persists into summer.
- Pruning Intensity: Light (removing spent blooms only); foliage removal only after it dies naturally.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) during active growth; partial shade in extreme heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to full sun to prevent scorching; provide afternoon shade in hot climates; ensure good air circulation.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Avoid direct afternoon sun in summer; rotate pots for even light exposure; use sheer curtains for filtered light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in dormancy
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; cease watering during dormancy.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil 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/10–18°C) during growth; tolerate cold but avoid frost; heat stress above 75°F/24°C.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; monitor for heat stress signs.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth, none in dormancy
Fertilize sparingly to avoid bulb rot; stop feeding in summer; use bulb-specific fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Seed or division of bulbs.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide bulbs after flowering.
- Replant immediately at proper depth.
- Sow seeds in trays.
- Keep moist and cool.
Best Time: Divide bulbs immediately after flowering; sow seeds in late summer or early fall.
Environment
Cool temperatures (50–60°F/10–15°C) for bulbs; bright indirect light for seedlings; consistent moisture for seeds.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or bulb compost for seeds; clean, dry storage for divided bulbs.
Hormone
Not required for bulb division; optional for seedlings to encourage root development.
Timeline
Bulbs may flower in 1–2 years after division; seeds take 3–5 years to flower.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, bulb separator, seed trays, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Divide only when bulbs are crowded; store seeds in a cool, dark place; label divisions for tracking.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip flower stalks at the base; allow foliage to photosynthesize until it withers.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage bulb energy storage; cut foliage only after it has yellowed and died back.
Tools
Hand pruners or sharp scissors.
Checklist
Remove dead flowers; do not cut foliage prematurely; clean tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late summer or early fall after dormancy ends but before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Use a pot 2–3 inches larger in diameter than the current one; ensure depth for bulb planting.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; plant bulbs at 2–3 times their depth; ensure good drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot only when bulbs become overcrowded or every 3–4 years; avoid disturbing bulbs during dormancy.
Checklist
Check for overcrowding; use fresh soil; plant at correct depth; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce in dormancy.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain away completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during active growth (spring) and allow soil to dry between waterings; reduce watering significantly in summer dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or grit to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress); wilting or leaf burn (heat stress); stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root rot in poorly drained soil; leaves may turn yellow or brown.
Solution: Ensure well-drained soil; protect from frost; move containers to a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; bulbs may fail to flower; growth may cease.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water deeply but infrequently.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growth; avoid dormant period; water after feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly during active growth (spring); avoid fertilizing during dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicTulipa raddii is toxic to cats, with the bulbs being the most dangerous part. Ingestion can result in severe gastrointestinal and systemic effects due to the presence of toxic glycosides.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe bulbs and leaves of Tulipa raddii are toxic to dogs, containing compounds that can lead to gastrointestinal upset and other systemic issues. The bulbs are especially hazardous.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicTulipa raddii 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 raddii toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to both dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Tulipa raddii?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Tulipa raddii attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Liliaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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