bulb corm tuber

Red Crocus Tulip

Tulipa pulchella

The Story

Plant Bio

Low-growing tulip known for its delicate beauty and yellow flowers.

Distinctively has a starry flower shape and is among the earliest blooming tulips.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesTulipa pulchella provides vibrant early spring color, brightening gardens and containers with its delicate blooms.
Practical UsesIts bulbs are easy to plant and require minimal care, making it ideal for low-maintenance gardens.
Ecological BenefitsSupports early pollinators like bees emerging in spring, contributing to local biodiversity.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Bulb Corm Tuber

Height

6 inches

Width

4 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Turkey, Iran, Caucasus

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Plant bulbs in well-drained soil in early fall for spring bloom.
  2. Tuck bulbs 4-6 inches deep, pointed end up, in a sunny spot.
  3. Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil around bulbs.
  4. Allow soil to dry out between waterings during dormancy.
  5. Remove spent flowers to encourage bulb energy storage.
  6. Mulch lightly to protect bulbs from extreme cold.

Pro Tip

Plant bulbs in clusters for a natural look and vibrant display.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water sparingly during dormancy 🌱
  • Plant in full sun for best blooms
  • Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring
  • Remove dead flowers to promote new growth

Don't

  • Overwater in winter ❌
  • Plant too deep or too shallow
  • Use heavy clay soil without amendment
  • Neglect to mulch in cold regions

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 flower bedColorful rock garden accentDelicate border planting

Companion Plants

Grape hyacinth CrocusDaffodil Pansy Primrose

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Red Crocus Tulip questions

What zones can Red Crocus Tulip grow in?

Red Crocus Tulip is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Red Crocus Tulip deer resistant?

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

When does Red Crocus Tulip bloom?

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

Does Red Crocus Tulip need full sun?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Red Crocus 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.