Tulipa saxatilis is originally from Crete, Rhodes and through to Southern Turkey where it is found on rocky outcrops as well as open field.
So when we think of Crete we think warm Mediterranean summers, and this is true, however Crete does have cold winters, it snows, so a cool winter is needed, or you may have to dig the bulbs and give them some time in cooler.
Open lilac pink flowers with a vivid yellow centre, sometimes one flower and up to three for the larger bulbs.
Care
In warmer climates this is one of the easier species tulips to grow. It loves a warm summer.
You will need a dry summer and reasonably cold winters for this species to flower well.
Plant the bulbs at 4 – 5 inches deep for best results.
This is a bulb that grows well in a deep container, and propagation is easiest by division of established clumps.
The bulbs are small, so do not worry when you dig them, “From little things, big things grow”.
Summary Information
- Botanical Name : Tulipa saxitalis
- Common Name : None.
- Family Name : Liliaceae
- USDA Zone : 3- 8
- Flowering Time – Spring
- Flower Colour – Lilac with Yellow Centres
- Height : 6 inches
- Spread : Clump forming over time
- Growth Rate : Medium to Fast
- Soil : Humus rich, moist and well drained
- Light : Full sun to a little shade
- Humidity : Medium to Low
- Container Growing : Yes
- Frost Tolerance : Yes
- Drought Tolerant : Yes
