bulb corm tuber

Tulip Akebono

Tulipa gesneriana 'Akebono'

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:

Ornamental UsesBright, showy flowers add vibrant color to gardens in spring, creating cheerful focal points.
Practical UsesEasy to grow in containers and garden beds, requiring minimal care after establishment.
Ecological BenefitsProvides early nectar for pollinators like bees emerging in spring.
SpeciesTulipa gesnerianaGarden Tulip

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

J
F
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In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck bulbs 6 inches deep in well-draining soil in fall.
  2. Plant bulbs with pointed end up, spacing 4-6 inches apart.
  3. Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil.
  4. Mist bulbs during dormancy if soil dries out in winter.
  5. Allow foliage to yellow naturally after blooming for energy storage.
  6. 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

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid spring flower borderColorful container displayNatural woodland garden accent

Companion Plants

Grape hyacinth Daffodils CrocusHyacinths Pansies

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.

Keep exploring

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.