bulb corm tuber

Humilis Tulip Wild Tulip

Tulipa humilis

The Story

Plant Bio

A low-growing tulip that produces bright red flowers.

Among the earliest tulips to bloom, this species is well-suited for rock gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesVivid tulip blooms create stunning spring displays, adding vibrant color to gardens and landscapes.
Practical UsesBulbs are easy to plant and maintain, ideal for low-effort gardening.
Ecological BenefitsSupports pollinators like bees during spring bloom.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Bulb Corm Tuber

Height

6 inches

Width

6 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial (grown as annuals in some climates)

Native To

Central Asia

Toxicity

Toxic to humans and pets if ingested

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck tulip bulbs 6 inches deep in well-drained soil in fall.
  2. Water sparingly after planting to settle soil around bulbs.
  3. Ensure full sun exposure for optimal flowering.
  4. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring before bloom.
  5. Remove spent flowers to encourage bulb energy storage.
  6. Mulch lightly to protect from extreme winter cold.

Pro Tip

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

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water during dry periods in spring 🌱
  • Apply fertilizer annually in early spring
  • Remove weeds around plants

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering in summer ❌
  • Don’t plant too deep or too shallow
  • Refrain from cutting foliage too early

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 accentClustering for dramatic display

Companion Plants

Grape hyacinth Daffodils CrocusHyacinths

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Humilis Tulip Wild Tulip questions

What zones can Humilis Tulip Wild Tulip grow in?

Humilis Tulip Wild Tulip is hardy in USDA Zones 4–6. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Humilis Tulip Wild Tulip deer resistant?

Yes — Humilis Tulip Wild Tulip is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Humilis Tulip Wild Tulip bloom?

Humilis Tulip Wild 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 Humilis Tulip Wild Tulip need full sun?

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

Is Humilis Tulip Wild Tulip drought tolerant?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Humilis Tulip Wild 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.