Tulipa humilis ‘Alba Coerulea Oculata’ (Botanical Tulip)

Such a delicate beauty! Tulipa humilis ‘Alba Coreulea Oculata’ is refined with its goblet-shaped white flowers, pointed petals, and deep blue heart. A real delight in the garden with its starry flowers opening to expose their steel-blue heart in full sun! Quite short, this gem still makes a striking impact! Flowering in early-mid spring, this small but spectacular tulip is a member of the Botanical Tulips and is quite versatile in the garden.

Growing up to 4-6 inches tall (10-15 cm), this tulip naturalizes easily and will come back year after year!

Toxicity: Tulips contain toxic compounds if ingested. The bulbs are particularly toxic, containing alkaloids that can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea if eaten by humans or animals. Therefore, it is important to plant tulip bulbs in areas where pets and young children are unlikely to dig them up.

Deer and Rabbits: Unfortunately, tulips are quite popular with deer and rabbits. These animals may eat the foliage and flowers, especially in early spring when other food sources are scarce.

Growing and Caring for Tulip Flowers

Planting: Plant tulip bulbs in the fall, 6-8 weeks before the first hard frost. Plant bulbs 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) deep, with the pointed end facing up, and space them 2-3 inches (5-7 cm) apart.

Light: Tulips thrive in full sun, needing at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to produce the best blooms. They can tolerate partial shade, but flowering may be reduced.

Soil: Plant tulips in well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH (6.0-7.0). They prefer sandy or loamy soil that prevents waterlogging, which can cause bulb rot.

Watering: Water tulips immediately after planting in the fall to help establish roots. During the growing season, keep the soil moderately moist but avoid overwatering. Once the foliage dies back, reduce watering.

Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) when planting bulbs in the fall and again in early spring as shoots emerge. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can cause lush foliage at the expense of blooms.

Pruning and Maintenance: Remove spent flowers (deadhead) to prevent seed production and direct energy back to the bulb. Allow the foliage to die back naturally to nourish the bulb for the next season.

Propagation: Propagate by lifting and separating offsets.

Pests and Diseases: Watch for pests like aphids, slugs, and squirrels. May be susceptible to tulip fire and bulb rot in poorly drained soil.