Tulipa cretica 'Hilde'
miscellaneous group tulip bulbs
A petite yet resilient gem, 'Hilde' stands at a modest 20-25cm tall (8-10in), adorned with slender strap-like leaves. Its fluted pink-flushed, white flowers gradually unfold with delicate darker pink stripes and tips as they mature, revealing vibrant yellow throats. With the capacity to produce up to three blossoms per stem, this dainty tulip is perfect for rock gardens or as a front border highlight. Whether nestled in small pots within an alpine house or flourishing in a cold greenhouse, 'Hilde' prefers well-drained, gritty soil over peat-free general-purpose compost.
How to care for Tulipa cretica Hilde:
These species tulips are adaptable for pot and border culture, as well as naturalising in meadows and wildflower schemes. Using fresh, good-quality compost, plant bulbs in pots from September to November. For borders, these tulips have some resistance to Tulip Fire and can be planted earlier in the autumn than other species, though a later planting after the first frosts (October) will reduce any risk. Plant bulbs 15-20cm (6-8in) deep and 10-15cm (4-6in) apart in fertile, well-drained soil. Alternatively, allow 7-9 bulbs per 30cm sq or 60-75 bulbs per m². If you’re unable to plant your bulbs immediately, they can be stored in a cool environment with good air circulation. Remove all the packaging and place them in a loose-weave jute sack before labelling and hanging up in a dry, unheated garden shed or well-ventilated greenhouse.
In spring, when the potted or border tulips are in active growth, apply a high-potash fertiliser (like Tomorite) each week until the leaves start to die back. Pinch off the spent flower heads as the petals fall, and let the stem and foliage die back naturally. Unlike border/bedding tulips, species tulips tulips can be left in the ground to flower in situ year after year.
If planting in a meadow in order to naturalise, make sure the grass is not cut until the foliage has completely died back.
In spring, when the potted or border tulips are in active growth, apply a high-potash fertiliser (like Tomorite) each week until the leaves start to die back. Pinch off the spent flower heads as the petals fall, and let the stem and foliage die back naturally. Unlike border/bedding tulips, species tulips tulips can be left in the ground to flower in situ year after year.
If planting in a meadow in order to naturalise, make sure the grass is not cut until the foliage has completely died back.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
0.2m
Eventual spread:
0.1m
Position:
Full sun / light shade
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil, or peat-free general purpose compost
Hardiness:
Fully hardy
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This bulb dies back after flowering each year and enters a period of rest ahead of regrowth the following season.
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Humans: Harmful if eaten; skin allergen; Pets: Ornamental bulbs - not to be eaten
Unavailable
Bulbs (only)£4.95
