Tulipa Montana

Description

Deepest blood-red cup-shaped flowers on short stems open in earliest spring . Growing wild on the stony hills of North West Iran, it is happy in cold gardens, but like most wild tulips it is best kept in a well-drained spot in the summer. There is no need to lift it as it will happily grow, and indeed spread, in the same position for many years. Richard Wilford in his indispensible book "Tulips" writes “This really is one of the most alluring of the smaller tulip species.”

Sowing Advice

Sow seeds at any time covering them very thinly with compost or grit, and leaving some of the seed showing, as light can initiate germination, just as in the wild, and leave in a well-lit, warm spot. Sometimes, artificial heat may not be needed, and may prevent germination, as some species will only germinate in the spring after being chilled in the moist seed tray. Grow on in sharply draining compost in a pot, or the open ground.

Key Facts