Tulipa Tarda

Description

This little gem is a dwarf, clump-forming species, bearing star-shaped, deep orange flowers with the petals tipped with cream and marked on the back red and green. Its main value is its very late flowering period, whilst it is also probably the best, most long-lived tulip species for rock gardens. This lovely archetype of tulips is the one most often found in the wilds of the Turkish mountains.

Sowing Advice

Sow seeds at any time, covering them very thinly with compost or grit, keeping the seed pot in a cool, well-lit spot outdoors. Artificial heat is not needed and can prevent germination so be very patient as many species will only germinate in the spring after chilling or freezing in the moist seed pot in the winter. Grow on individual seedlings in small pots until of sufficient size to be potted on or planted out into the open ground.

Key Facts