Water-lily Tulip
Tulipa kaufmannianaUSDA | Grow Zone
3-8Outdoors all year in zones 3 to 8. Anywhere colder, keep it as a houseplant. Protect it below 40°F.
- Light
- Full sun, 6 hours min
- Water
- Moderate, every 1-2 weeks
- Humidity
- 40-60%
- Temperature
- 60-75°F (15-24°C)
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Growth
- Moderate
- Mature size
- 6-12 in tall, wide
- Pets
- Non-toxic to pets
The Water-lily Tulip, or Tulipa kaufmanniana, is a stunning bulbous perennial known for its unique, water-lily-like flowers. Native to Central Asia, it adds vibrant color to spring gardens and is cherished for its ease of care and adaptability.
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Ideal temperature
60-75°F is where it grows fastest. Below 40°F cold damage starts.
Spacing and harvest
- Mature size
- 6-12 in tall, wide
- Plant apart
- 6-12 in
- Frost
- Hardy: survives frost
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Water the Water-lily Tulip moderately during its growing season, ensuring the soil is kept slightly moist but not soggy.
Typically, water every 1-2 weeks, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. In the dormant phase, reduce watering significantly. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and root rot, while under-watering may cause wilting and browning leaf tips.
Light
This plant thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Ideal placement includes a south-facing garden bed or container that receives ample light. While it can tolerate partial shade, too little light may result in weak growth and fewer blooms.
Soil
The Water-lily Tulip prefers well-draining soil, ideally a sandy or loamy mix with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
Good drainage is essential to prevent bulb rot, so consider using a potting mix designed for bulbs or adding perlite to improve aeration.
Humidity
This tulip prefers moderate humidity levels, around 40-60%.
To increase humidity, consider misting the plant or placing a humidity tray nearby. Signs of low humidity stress include browning leaf edges and stunted growth.
Temperature
The ideal temperature range for Tulipa kaufmanniana is between 60-75°F (15-24°C).
It is hardy in USDA zones 3-8, tolerating cold temperatures but may struggle in extreme heat. During the growing season, ensure temperatures remain moderate to promote healthy growth.
Fertilizing
Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 during the growing season, applying every 4-6 weeks.
Avoid fertilizing during dormancy. Signs of nutrient deficiency include yellowing leaves and poor flowering, indicating the need for a nutrient boost.
Pruning
Pruning is minimal for this plant.
Remove spent flowers to encourage bulb energy conservation, and cut back foliage only after it has yellowed and died back. Use clean, sharp scissors to avoid damaging the plant.
Repotting
Repot every 2-3 years or when bulbs become overcrowded.
Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. Signs that repotting is needed include stunted growth and roots emerging from the drainage holes. Carefully remove the plant, refresh the soil, and replant at the same depth.
Propagation
Propagation can be achieved through bulb division or offsets.
The best time to divide bulbs is in late summer after the foliage has died back. Carefully dig up the bulbs, separate the offsets, and replant them at a depth of about 6 inches in well-draining soil.
When it's unhappy
Yellowing leaves
Why it happens
This can be caused by over-watering or nutrient deficiency.
How to fix it
Ensure proper watering practices and consider applying a balanced fertilizer.
Root rot
Why it happens
Overly wet soil conditions can lead to root rot.
How to fix it
Improve drainage and reduce watering frequency.
Poor flowering
Why it happens
Insufficient sunlight or nutrient deficiency may lead to fewer blooms.
How to fix it
Ensure the plant receives full sun and consider fertilizing.
Browning leaf tips
Why it happens
This can indicate underwatering or low humidity.
How to fix it
Adjust watering frequency and increase humidity if needed.
Pests (e.g., aphids)
Why it happens
Aphids can infest the plant, especially in warm weather.
How to fix it
Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat infestations.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, ensure your Water-lily Tulip receives plenty of sunlight and maintain consistent moisture as it begins to grow.
Summer
During summer, continue to water regularly but reduce frequency as the plant enters dormancy. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks.
Fall
In fall, allow the foliage to die back naturally and reduce watering as the plant prepares for dormancy.
Winter
In winter, keep the bulbs dry and store them in a cool, dark place if they are in pots. Avoid watering during this dormant period.
Toxicity & Safety
Tulipa kaufmanniana is non-toxic to pets and children. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. It's best to keep any plant material out of reach.
Good to know
How often should I water my Water-lily Tulip?
Water your Water-lily Tulip every 1-2 weeks during the growing season, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
What type of soil is best for Tulipa kaufmanniana?
This tulip prefers well-draining soil, ideally a sandy or loamy mix with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0 to prevent bulb rot.
Why are my Water-lily Tulip leaves turning yellow?
Yellowing leaves can indicate over-watering or a nutrient deficiency. Check your watering habits and consider fertilizing if needed.
When is the best time to propagate Tulipa kaufmanniana?
The best time to propagate is in late summer after the foliage has died back, allowing for bulb division or offsets.
How do I increase humidity for my Water-lily Tulip?
To increase humidity, mist the plant regularly or place a humidity tray nearby to create a more favorable environment.
What should I do if my Water-lily Tulip is not flowering?
If your tulip is not flowering, ensure it receives full sun and consider applying a balanced fertilizer to promote blooming.
How do I know when to repot my Water-lily Tulip?
Repot your Water-lily Tulip every 2-3 years or when you notice stunted growth or roots emerging from the drainage holes.
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