The Story
Plant Bio
Tulipa x gesneriana 'Akebono' is known for its striking yellow flowers and is frequently used in gardens and as a cut flower.
'Akebono' is a Darwin Hybrid tulip featuring large, peony-like double flowers. The blooms are soft primrose-yellow, with delicate green flames and a fine red edge on the outer petals.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Bulb Corm Tuber
Height
20 inches
Width
6 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial in suitable climates
Native To
Central Asia
Toxicity
Toxic to humans and pets if ingested
Bloom period
Mid-spring – Late spring
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck bulbs 6 inches deep in well-draining soil in fall.
- Plant bulbs with pointed end up, spacing 4-6 inches apart.
- Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil.
- Mist bulbs during dormancy if soil dries out in winter.
- Allow foliage to yellow naturally after blooming for energy storage.
- Lift and store bulbs in dry, cool place if necessary in warmer climates.
Pro Tip
Use a layer of gravel or sand at planting site for extra drainage to prevent rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during active growth 🌱
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring
- Mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature
- Deadhead spent flowers to promote healthy growth
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot ❌
- Do not plant in heavy, clay soils without amendments ❌
- Refrain from cutting foliage until it yellows naturally ❌
- Do not expose bulbs to frost without protection in colder zones ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Tulip Akebono questions
What zones can Tulip Akebono grow in?
Tulip Akebono 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 Tulip Akebono deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Tulip Akebono, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Tulip Akebono bloom?
Tulip Akebono typically blooms in mid-spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Tulip Akebono need full sun?
Tulip Akebono does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
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Tulipa tulip 'Blumex Parrot'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Tulip Akebono 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.















