Tulipa bakeri Lilac Wonder

Delicate, elegant and wonderfully reliable, Tulipa bakeri 'Lilac Wonder' is one of the finest species tulips, producing beautifully proportioned soft lilac-pink flowers with a glowing golden-yellow centre that seems to capture the warmth of spring sunshine.

Native to the mountains of Crete, this charming botanical tulip has delighted gardeners for generations with its natural grace and exceptional ability to return year after year. Unlike many modern hybrid tulips, 'Lilac Wonder' is a true species tulip, prized for its longevity, resilience and effortless beauty.

The silky flowers open wide on sunny days to reveal a brilliant butter-yellow eye, creating a striking contrast against the soft rosy-lilac petals. Each flower is held just above attractive grey-green foliage, making it ideal for rock gardens, alpine beds, containers, gravel gardens and the front of sunny borders.

Flowering in mid-spring, Tulipa bakeri 'Lilac Wonder' combines beautifully with Muscari, Chionodoxa, Scillas and other small spring bulbs. Given a sunny, well-drained position, it will naturalise gently and return faithfully for many years.

Recipient of the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit, this delightful little tulip is one of the easiest and most dependable species tulips to grow.

A true jewel of the spring garden, bringing subtle colour, elegance and lasting performance.

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant Tulipa bakeri 'Lilac Wonder' bulbs in autumn, ideally between September and November, before the ground freezes.

Where to Plant:
Choose a sunny position with well-drained soil. This species tulip is perfect for rock gardens, alpine beds, gravel gardens, borders and containers where drainage is excellent.

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant bulbs approximately 10–12 cm (4–5 inches) deep.
• Spacing: Space bulbs about 8–10 cm (3–4 inches) apart.
• Soil Prep: Improve heavy soils with grit or sharp sand and incorporate compost if needed to improve soil structure while maintaining excellent drainage.

Watering:
Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil. Once established, rainfall is usually sufficient, as species tulips dislike prolonged wet conditions.

Aftercare Tips:

• Allow the foliage to die back naturally after flowering to feed the bulb for the following year.
• Avoid excessive summer watering while the bulbs are dormant.
• Leave bulbs undisturbed to allow them to naturalise and increase gradually.

Top Tip:
Plant amongst Muscari, Scilla and Chionodoxa to create a beautiful naturalistic spring display full of soft colour and early pollinator interest.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:
April (depending on season and conditions)

Height:
4–6" (10–15cm) (approx.)

Position:
Full sun

Hardy Perennial