bulb corm tuber

Persian Pearl Tulip

Tulipa pulchella 'Persian Pearl'

The Story

Plant Bio

A dwarf, bulbous perennial species tulip native to Turkey and Iran. It is known for its hardiness, early spring bloom, and ability to naturalize in well-drained soils. Typically produces a single, star-shaped flower per stem.

A distinctive cultivar with vibrant magenta-rose petals that open wide in the sun to reveal a bright yellow center. Its flowers are borne on short stems, making it ideal for rock gardens and border fronts. It is an early bloomer and reliably perennializes.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesElegant early spring blooms add charm to gardens.
Practical UsesLow-maintenance perennial that naturalizes easily.
Ecological BenefitsProvides nectar for early pollinators.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Bulb Corm Tuber

Height

5 inches

Width

4 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Low to medium

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Turkey, Iran

Toxicity

Toxic to cats and dogs

Bloom period

Early spring – Mid-spring

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck bulbs 4 inches deep in well-draining soil in fall.
  2. Water sparingly until shoots appear in early spring.
  3. Mist foliage during blooming for best display.
  4. Allow foliage to die back naturally after flowering.
  5. Divide bulbs every 3-4 years in late summer.
  6. Mulch with organic material to retain moisture.

Pro Tip

Plant bulbs in a sunny spot with good drainage for vibrant blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water during active growth 🌱
  • Apply balanced fertilizer in early spring
  • Remove spent flowers to encourage new growth

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent rot ❌
  • Don’t plant in heavy clay soil without amendment
  • Don’t cut back foliage until it turns yellow

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Divide
Fertilize
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid spring borderColorful rock garden accentPotted display for patios

Companion Plants

Grape hyacinth CrocusDaffodil IrisAllium

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Persian Pearl Tulip questions

What zones can Persian Pearl Tulip grow in?

Persian Pearl 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 Persian Pearl Tulip deer resistant?

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

When does Persian Pearl Tulip bloom?

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

Does Persian Pearl Tulip need full sun?

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

Is Persian Pearl Tulip drought tolerant?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Persian Pearl 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.