Tulipa greigii 'Red Riding Hood'
Tulipa greigii 'Red Riding Hood'
A compact greigii tulip prized for its vivid scarlet flowers and distinctive purple-striped foliage. Only 20cm tall, making it perfect for containers and the front of borders. Flowers in April. The mottled leaves are attractive even before the flowers open. Perennialises better than most tulips in well-drained UK gardens.
Where to plant
Best aspect
Border position
When to plant and expect flowers
Plant
Flowers
How to grow tulipa greigii 'red riding hood'
Plant 10-15cm deep in November. Greigii tulips are among the best for perennialising. The decorative striped foliage adds interest before and during flowering. Compact habit is perfect for containers, window boxes, and rock gardens.
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
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