PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Requires full sun for optimal flowering; tolerate partial shade in hot Mediterranean climates to prevent petal scorch
Watering
Water thoroughly when the top 2 cm of soil is dry; avoid waterlogging to prevent bulb rot
Temperature
Hardy to -10°C; requires 12–16 weeks of cold stratification for spring blooming; avoid prolonged temperatures above 20°C during summer dormancy
Characteristics
- Leaf: Narrow, linear to lanceolate grey-green leaves, up to 20 cm long
- Flower: Cup-shaped blooms 5–7 cm wide, crimson petals with a distinct golden-yellow basal eye
- Bulb: Ovoid brown tunicated bulb, 2–3 cm in diameter
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist during active growth; reduce watering as foliage begins to yellow
Fertilization
Apply diluted phosphorus-rich feed once when shoots emerge. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers that promote leafy growth over bulb development
Eggshell powder topdress：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1 tbsp per bulb in early spring; avoid direct contact with young shoots to prevent burningPruning
- Deadhead spent flowers promptly to redirect energy to bulb growth
- Wait until foliage turns completely yellow before trimming to avoid weakening the bulb
- Remove damaged or diseased leaves immediately to prevent fungal spread
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; bulb ingestion may cause gastrointestinal distress and central nervous system depression
Humans: Bulbs contain tulipalin A, causing oral irritation, nausea, or vomiting if ingested
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes perfect love and spring renewal in Eastern Mediterranean folklore
Usage: Ornamental garden plant, cut flower for floral arrangements
