8 named cultivars

bulb corm tuber

Tarda Tulip

The Story

Plant Bio

A small, clump-forming species tulip with star-shaped, bright yellow flowers with white tips. Ideal for rock gardens, borders, and naturalizing.

Notable for its ability to naturalize readily. The flowers open fully in the sun to form a star shape, revealing the yellow and white coloration.

Uses & Benefits:

Tulipa tarda offers delicate, silvery foliage and charming white blooms, perfect for spring borders and rock gardens.

Its drought tolerance makes it suitable for low-maintenance landscapes.

Provides early nectar for pollinators emerging in spring.

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

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Central Asia

Toxicity

Toxic to pets if ingested

Planting

How to Grow

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

Pro Tip

Plant tulipa tarda in well-drained soil with full sun for vibrant blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Tuck bulbs in well-draining soil 🌱
Water regularly during active growth
Fertilize in early spring

Don't

Don’t overwater in winter ❌
Avoid planting in poorly drained areas ❌
Don’t cut back foliage prematurely

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

Rock garden with silvery foliageBorder edging with delicate blooms

Companion Plants

Grape hyacinth Allium CrocusSiberian squill

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Tarda Tulip questions

What zones can Tarda Tulip grow in?

Tarda 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 Tarda Tulip deer resistant?

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

When does Tarda Tulip bloom?

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

Does Tarda Tulip need full sun?

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

Is Tarda Tulip drought tolerant?

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