Tulipa hum.var.pul.Alba Coerulea Oculata

A true collector's gem, Tulipa humilis var. pulchella 'Albocaerulea Oculata' is one of the most exquisite and unusual Species Tulips available. Its elegant, pointed petals are the purest glistening white, opening wide in sunshine to reveal a breathtaking steely violet-blue eye surrounding dramatic black stamens—a colour combination unlike any other tulip.

Native to the rocky mountains of Turkey, Iran and the Caucasus, Tulipa humilis is perfectly adapted to sunny, free-draining conditions. This charming dwarf species flowers early in spring, producing beautifully proportioned blooms on compact stems that are ideal for rockeries, alpine gardens, raised beds and patio containers.

As the flowers open fully, the striking blue centre creates a dramatic starburst effect against the pristine white petals, making each bloom a miniature work of art. In the evening and on dull days, the flowers gently close, revealing their elegant, tulip-shaped buds once more.

Compact, easy to grow and exceptionally long-lived, 'Albocaerulea Oculata' is ideal for naturalising in well-drained soils and is particularly attractive to early pollinating insects. Its compact size also makes it one of the finest tulips for alpine troughs and containers.

An unforgettable botanical tulip that rewards close inspection and returns year after year with increasing beauty.

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant Tulipa humilis bulbs in autumn, ideally from October to December, while the soil remains workable and before it freezes.

Where to Plant:
Choose a sunny position with free-draining soil. This dwarf species is ideal for rockeries, alpine beds, gravel gardens, raised beds, containers and the front of sunny borders.

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant bulbs approximately 8–10 cm (3–4 inches) deep.
• Spacing: Space bulbs 8–10 cm (3–4 inches) apart.
• Soil Prep: Improve drainage by incorporating horticultural grit into heavy soils. A little compost may be added to poor soils, but avoid rich, wet ground.

Watering:
Water after planting to settle the soil. Once established, this species tulip requires very little watering and dislikes prolonged winter wet.

Aftercare Tips:

• Remove faded flowers if seed is not required.
• Allow the foliage to die back naturally so the bulbs can store energy for the following spring.
• Leave bulbs undisturbed wherever possible, as they often naturalise well in free-draining soil.

Top Tip:
Plant in groups among gravel or alpine plants where the flowers can open fully in the sunshine, revealing their spectacular violet-blue centres. They are especially beautiful viewed at close range in pots or raised beds.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:

March – April (depending on season and conditions)

Height:
4–6" (10–15cm) (approx.)

Position:
Full sun

Hardy Perennial

Species Tulip