Species

Tulipa humilisHumilis Tulip Wild Tulip

2 other cultivars

bulb corm tuber

Ancilla Tulip

Tulipa humilis 'Ancilla'

The Story

Plant Bio

A compact and early-blooming tulip showcasing bright yellow flowers.

This cultivar is known for its small stature and ability to naturalize in the garden.

Uses & Benefits:

Bright and early spring blooms create cheerful garden accents and borders.

Easy to grow from bulbs with minimal maintenance once established.

Provides early nectar for pollinators emerging in spring.

SpeciesTulipa humilisHumilis Tulip Wild Tulip

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Bulb Corm Tuber

Height

6 inches

Width

5 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Garden Origin

Toxicity

Toxic to humans and pets if ingested

Bloom period

Early spring – Mid-spring

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck bulbs 4 inches deep in well-draining soil in fall.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil.
Position in full sun for optimal bloom.
Allow foliage to die back naturally after flowering.
Divide bulbs every 3-4 years for healthy growth.
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring.

Pro Tip

Plant bulbs in well-drained soil and avoid overwatering to prevent rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water during dry spells 🌱
Apply fertilizer in early spring
Allow foliage to yellow naturally

Don't

Don’t overwater in winter ❌
Avoid planting too deep
Don’t cut back foliage prematurely

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid spring flower borderColorful rock garden accentBright container display

Companion Plants

Grape Hyacinth Puschkinia Crocus ScillaDaffodil

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Ancilla Tulip questions

What zones can Ancilla Tulip grow in?

Ancilla 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 Ancilla Tulip deer resistant?

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

When does Ancilla Tulip bloom?

Ancilla 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 Ancilla Tulip need full sun?

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

Is Ancilla Tulip drought tolerant?

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