Species

Tulipa tulipaTulip

97 other cultivars

bulb corm tuber

Couleur Cardinal Tulip

Tulipa tulipa 'Couleur Cardinal'

The Story

Plant Bio

Bright red tulip known for its standout color and sturdy stature.

Unique for its velvety red petals that deepen in color as they mature.

Uses & Benefits:

Tulipa Couleur Cardinal provides vibrant, eye-catching blooms in spring, brightening gardens and containers with rich red hues.

Its naturalized growth can help control weeds in flower beds.

Supports early pollinators like bees and butterflies.

SpeciesTulipa tulipaTulip

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Bulb Corm Tuber

Height

14 inches

Width

6 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Best treated as an annual; may perennialize

Native To

Central Asia

Toxicity

Toxic to pets 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 best display.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil.
Ensure full sun exposure for vibrant blooms.
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring.
Mulch lightly to protect from extreme cold.

Pro Tip

Plant bulbs in well-drained soil and full sun for best flowering results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during growing season 🌱
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms
Apply balanced fertilizer in early spring
Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot ❌
Do not plant in heavy clay soil without amendments ❌
Refrain from cutting foliage until it yellows
Avoid fertilizing after flowering

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Pest Check
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid spring flower borderColorful container displayNaturalized woodland garden

Companion Plants

Grape Hyacinth CrocusDaffodil Hyacinth Snowdrop

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Couleur Cardinal Tulip questions

What zones can Couleur Cardinal Tulip grow in?

Couleur Cardinal 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 Couleur Cardinal Tulip deer resistant?

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

When does Couleur Cardinal Tulip bloom?

Couleur Cardinal 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 Couleur Cardinal Tulip need full sun?

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

Is Couleur Cardinal Tulip drought tolerant?

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