Tulipa tulipa 'Shirley'
bulb corm tuber

Shirley Tulip

Tulipa tulipa 'Shirley'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated
Real-Time Pricing
Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Bulb Corm Tuber

Height

20 inches

Width

6 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Central Asia

Toxicity

Toxic to humans and pets if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Ivory-white flowers that mature to pure white with a delicate, stippled purple margin. This cultivar is known for its elegance and is ideal for formal and cottage gardens.

Bloom Period:

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

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesTulips add vibrant colors to gardens and floral arrangements, symbolizing spring renewal.
Practical UsesLow-maintenance bulbs suitable for naturalized landscapes.
Ecological BenefitsProvide early nectar for pollinators like bees.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck bulbs 6 inches deep into well-draining soil in fall.
  2. Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil.
  3. Place in full sun for optimal blooming.
  4. Fertilize with a balanced bulb fertilizer in early spring.
  5. Remove spent flowers to encourage bulb growth.
  6. Allow foliage to yellow naturally before removing.

Pro Tip

Plant tulips in clusters for a more dramatic display and ensure good drainage to prevent rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly during active growth ๐ŸŒฑ
  • Apply balanced fertilizer in early spring
  • Remove spent flowers to promote new growth

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot โŒ
  • Do not disturb bulbs during dormancy
  • Avoid planting in heavy clay soil without amendment

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid spring borderColorful rock garden accentBright container display

Companion Plants

Grape hyacinth Daffodils Crocus Hyacinths

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Shirley Tulip questions

What zones can Shirley Tulip grow in?

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

Is Shirley Tulip deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Shirley Tulip, especially tender spring growth โ€” plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Shirley Tulip bloom?

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

Does Shirley Tulip need full sun?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Shirley 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.

Download Sow on the App StoreGet Sow on Google Play