bulb corm tuber

Judith Leyster Tulip

Tulipa tarda 'Judith Leyster'

The Story

Plant Bio

An award-winning, low-growing species tulip that readily naturalizes, producing clusters of star-shaped flowers in mid- to late spring.

Flowers are bright yellow with prominent white tips, opening wide in the sun. The exterior of the petals is often tinged with green or bronze.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesTulipa tarda Judith Leyster offers early spring elegance with its pristine white blooms, brightening gardens after winter.
Practical UsesProvides early nectar for pollinators emerging in spring, supporting local ecosystems.
Ecological BenefitsNaturalizes well in suitable climates, promoting biodiversity and soil health.
SpeciesTulipa tardaTarda Tulip

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Bulb Corm Tuber

Height

6 inches

Width

4 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Medium

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Central Asia

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck bulbs 6 inches deep in well-draining soil in fall.
  2. Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil.
  3. Place in full sun for best flowering results.
  4. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring.
  5. Remove spent flowers to encourage bulb energy.
  6. Allow foliage to yellow naturally before removing.

Pro Tip

Plant bulbs in clusters for a more natural and striking display.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Ensure soil is well-draining to prevent bulb rot 🌱
  • Water regularly during active growth
  • Apply fertilizer in early spring for vibrant blooms
  • Remove faded flowers to keep plants tidy

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
  • Don’t plant bulbs too shallow
  • Refrain from disturbing bulbs once established
  • Don’t use heavy clay soil without amendment

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vibrant spring borderColorful rock garden accentNaturalized meadow planting

Companion Plants

CrocusGrape hyacinth Daffodil ScillaPuschkinia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Judith Leyster Tulip questions

What zones can Judith Leyster Tulip grow in?

Judith Leyster 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 Judith Leyster Tulip deer resistant?

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

When does Judith Leyster Tulip bloom?

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

Does Judith Leyster Tulip need full sun?

Judith Leyster Tulip does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Judith Leyster Tulip drought tolerant?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Judith Leyster Tulip with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.