Tulipa 'Negrita'
Tulipa 'Negrita'
A triumph tulip in rich beetroot-purple with a satin sheen. Sturdy stems and reliable flowering make it one of the most dependable purple tulips. Flowers in April. Excellent for formal bedding, borders, and containers. Holds its colour well even in hot weather. Widely available and reasonably priced for UK gardens.
Where to plant
Best aspect
Border position
When to plant and expect flowers
Plant
Flowers
How to grow tulipa 'negrita'
Plant 15-20cm deep in November. One of the most reliable and affordable purple tulips. Strong stems resist wind and rain. Good for formal and informal planting. The satin purple colour intensifies in cool weather.
Soil requirements
Soil type
loam, sand, chalk
Moisture
well drained
pH
neutral, alkaline
Aftercare
Allow foliage to die back naturally after flowering. Remove spent flower heads to prevent self-seeding.
Propagation
- Offsets in autumn
- Seed
Wildlife value
Toxicity
All parts toxic, especially bulbs. Contains tulipalin A and B causing skin irritation and gastrointestinal upset.
Common problems
- Tulip fire (Botrytis tulipae)
- Squirrels digging up bulbs
- Slugs on young shoots
- Bulb rot in waterlogged soil
Similar bulbs to grow
Related guides
The 70-30 Rule for Better Garden Borders
The 70-30 planting rule explained: 70% structure and foliage, 30% seasonal flowers, measured by area, so your UK border looks full in every month.
Air-Purifying Houseplants: What They Really Do
Do air-purifying houseplants work? The honest answer, the ten easiest plants to grow anyway, which are pet-safe, and what actually freshens indoor air.
Allotment Planner: Month-by-Month
A friendly month-by-month allotment planner for the UK: what to sow, plant, pick and tidy each month, plus a handy sowing and harvest chart.