Tulipa orphanidea 'Flava'
miscellaneous group tulip bulbs
- Position: full sun or partial shade
- Soil: fertile, well-drained soil
- Rate of growth: average
- Flowering period: April to May
- Hardiness: fully hardy
- Bulb size: 6
This exquisite species tulip will come back year after year, slowly spreading to form a naturalised cluster. It looks sublime in mid- to late spring, when its slender stems start to emerge from amongst the grey-green foliage, each topped with a teardrop-shaped bud, which unfurls to lightly scented, star-like flowers, which are a blend of golden yellow, orange and lime. A must for alpine beds, gravel gardens or pots, it also looks wonderful when allowed to form generous swathes in borders or naturalised planting schemes. - Garden care: From September to December plant bulbs 10cm deep and 10cm apart in fertile, well-drained soil. Alternatively, allow 7-9 bulbs per 30cm sq. While actively growing, keep them moderately well watered and remove the flowers after they have faded. At that stage a balanced liquid fertiliser can be applied each week for 4 weeks before they die down.
- Humans: Harmful if eaten; skin allergen; Pets: Ornamental bulbs - not to be eaten