Tulipa turkestanica
Tulipa turkestanica
A multi-headed species tulip producing clusters of 5-8 small star-shaped cream flowers with an orange-yellow centre from February to March. One of the earliest tulips to flower. Delicate and graceful on slender stems. Perennialises well and increases by self-seeding. An elegant choice for naturalistic UK gardens.
Where to plant
Best aspect
Border position
When to plant and expect flowers
Plant
Flowers
How to grow tulipa turkestanica
Plant 8cm deep in November. One of the earliest tulips, flowering from February. Multi-headed with up to 8 flowers per stem. Self-seeds gently to form natural-looking colonies. Excellent in gravel gardens and raised beds.
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
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