Species

Tulipa tulipaTulip

97 other cultivars

bulb corm tuber

Showwinner Tulip

Tulipa tulipa 'Showwinner'

The Story

Plant Bio

A species tulip known as the 'waterlily tulip' for its habit of opening its flowers wide in the sun. Valued for its early spring blooms, short stature, and ability to naturalize in the garden.

Distinguished by its brilliant scarlet-red petals with a golden-yellow base. The flowers open wide in the sun to reveal a striking star-shaped interior.

Uses & Benefits:

Tulipa Showwinner adds vibrant color to spring gardens, creating striking visual displays.

Provides early nectar for pollinators, supporting local ecosystems.

Supports bees and beneficial insects when in bloom, promoting biodiversity.

SpeciesTulipa tulipaTulip

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Bulb Corm Tuber

Height

8 inches

Width

4 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Medium

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial with proper care

Native To

Central Asia

Toxicity

Toxic to cats and dogs if ingested

Bloom period

Early spring – Late spring

In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck bulbs 6 inches deep in well-draining soil in fall.
Plant bulbs 4-6 inches apart for optimal growth.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil.
Place in full sun for best blooms.
Mulch lightly to protect from extreme cold.
Allow foliage to die back naturally after blooming.

Pro Tip

Use a well-draining sandy soil to prevent bulb rot and ensure vibrant blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water during dry spells in spring 🌱
Apply balanced fertilizer in early spring
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage new growth
Plant in full sun for optimal flowering

Don't

Avoid overwatering, especially in summer ❌
Do not plant too deep or shallow
Refrain from disturbing bulbs during dormancy
Avoid using heavy clay soil without amendments

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Divide
Fertilize
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid spring borderColorful rock gardenBright flower bed

Companion Plants

CrocusHyacinth Daffodil Grape Hyacinth Pansy

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Showwinner Tulip questions

What zones can Showwinner Tulip grow in?

Showwinner Tulip is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Showwinner Tulip deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Showwinner Tulip, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Showwinner Tulip bloom?

Showwinner Tulip typically blooms in early spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Showwinner Tulip need full sun?

Showwinner Tulip does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Showwinner Tulip drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Showwinner Tulip handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.