Marjollet's Tulip
tulipa marjolleti
Also known as: []
Overview
A species tulip native to Turkey, known for its vibrant flowers and relatively compact growth habit.
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 marjolleti |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden beds or containers in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°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 organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; annually if foliage becomes overcrowded.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning (removal of spent flowers); minimal foliage removal until it dies back naturally.
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 full sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot regions; ensure adequate light indoors if grown as a container plant.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate pots for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid deep shade.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in dormancy
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; focus on root zone during active growth.
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 overwatering; use a soil mix designed for bulbs or cacti.
Temperature
Cool temperatures (50–65°F or 10–18°C) during active growth; tolerate cold winters but require a period of dormancy in warmer climates.
Avoid placing in drafty areas; protect from extreme heat or cold; maintain consistent temperatures during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring growth
Apply fertilizer after planting bulbs; stop feeding when foliage starts to yellow; water before and after fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
By seed or division of bulbs; division is faster and more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide bulbs after flowering.
- Replant immediately at the correct depth.
- Water lightly.
- Protect from extreme temperatures.
Best Time: Divide bulbs immediately after flowering; sow seeds in late summer or early fall.
Environment
Warm (60–70°F or 15–21°C), humid environment with bright indirect light for seedlings; bulbs require a cool period for dormancy.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for seedlings; use clean, sharp sand for bulb division.
Hormone
Not necessary for bulb division; optional for seedlings to encourage root development.
Timeline
Bulbs can be divided and replanted immediately; seeds may take 1–3 years to flower.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, clean trowel, bulb separator, potting mix.
Quick Tips
Ensure each divided bulb has roots; plant at the same depth as the parent bulb; label new plantings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip flower stalks at the base; do not cut foliage until it turns yellow and withers.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage bulb development; allow foliage to yellow and die back naturally before removing.
Tools
Sharp, clean scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Remove dead flowers promptly; avoid cutting green foliage; wait for natural dieback before trimming.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late summer or early fall after dormancy ends; or immediately after flowering if necessary.
Pot Size
Use a pot that is 2–3 inches wider than the bulb cluster; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently lift bulbs; remove old or damaged ones; replant at twice their own depth in fresh, well-draining soil.
Suggestions
Repot only when bulbs become overcrowded or every 3–4 years; best done after flowering when bulbs are dormant.
Checklist
Use fresh soil mix; plant bulbs at correct depth; ensure good drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at base; ensure drainage; reduce watering in dormancy.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
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 perlite, sand, or grit to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (too hot); stunted growth (too cold); premature bulb splitting (fluctuating temperatures).
Cold Stress
Slows growth and can cause root damage if temperatures drop below freezing without protection.
Solution: Mulch bulbs in winter; provide frost protection in cold climates; ensure good drainage to prevent rot.
Hot Stress
Can lead to premature flowering, shorter bloom duration, and reduced vigor if temperatures exceed 80°F (27°C) for extended periods.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; water deeply to keep roots cool; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during growth; cease during dormancy.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth; avoid fertilizing during dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to toxicity from Tulipa marjolleti, particularly if they ingest the bulbs, leaves, or flowers. The toxic glycosides can cause significant gastrointestinal and systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Tulipa marjolleti by dogs can lead to gastrointestinal upset and other toxic effects due to the presence of toxic glycosides. The bulbs are especially hazardous.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicTulipa marjolleti contains toxic glycosides that 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 marjolleti toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Tulipa marjolleti?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings, especially during dormancy.
Q: Does Tulipa marjolleti attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Liliaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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