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Tulipa humilis 'Persian Pearl'

miscellaneous group tulip bulbs

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The flowers of this diminutive species tulip are a bright shade of pinkish-purple. Initially bowl-shaped, they open to form stars, which is when the dazzling yellow eye becomes even more noticeable. This is a low-maintenance tulip that does not need to be lifted each year, and can be used to spread through gravel gardens, alpine beds and patio pots.

How to care for Tulipa humilis Persian Pearl:

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.
Eventual height:
0.1m
Eventual spread:
0.07m
Position:

Full sun

Rate of growth:

Average

Soil:

Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil

Hardiness:

Fully hardy

  • InformationHumans: Harmful if eaten; skin allergen; Pets: Ornamental bulbs - not to be eaten

Product options

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BU30001818
10 × bulbs
£6.99
available to order from summer
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BU30002648
20 + 10 FREE bulbs
was £20.97 now £13.98
available to order from summer
Delivery options (pick your preferred option at checkout)
Standard delivery Bulbs (only)£4.95

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