Tulipa whittallii

One of the finest botanical tulips for naturalistic planting, Tulipa whittallii is renowned for its rich, glowing flowers in shades of burnt orange, bronze and copper, each beautifully highlighted by a distinctive golden-yellow centre with a contrasting dark base.

Belonging to the Tulipa orphanidea group, this elegant species originates from the mountainous regions of Greece and Turkey, where it thrives in sunny, free-draining conditions. Its warm, fiery colours make it one of the most distinctive species tulips, bringing a sophisticated richness to the spring garden.

The slender, slightly wavy blue-green foliage provides an attractive contrast to the luminous flowers, which open wide in sunshine to reveal their striking centres before gently closing again in the evening. Unlike many larger hybrid tulips, Tulipa whittallii is a reliable perennial in well-drained soil and will often return year after year.

Perfect for rockeries, gravel gardens, alpine beds, containers and the front of sunny borders, it looks particularly stunning when planted among silver-leaved plants or deep blue spring-flowering bulbs.

Recipient of the Royal Horticultural Society Award of Garden Merit (AGM), this beautiful species tulip is easy to grow, long-lived and highly attractive to early pollinating insects.

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant Tulipa whittallii bulbs in autumn (September–December) while the soil is cool and workable. Planting in autumn allows the bulbs to establish strong roots before flowering in spring.

Where to Plant:
Choose a sunny position with well-drained soil. Tulipa whittallii is perfect for rockeries, gravel gardens, alpine beds, containers and the front of borders. Avoid areas where water remains during winter.

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant bulbs approximately 10 cm (4 inches) deep.
• Spacing: Space bulbs about 10 cm (4 inches) apart.
• Soil Prep: Improve heavy soils by incorporating horticultural grit or sharp sand to ensure excellent drainage.

Watering:
Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil. Once established, bulbs require very little additional watering except during prolonged dry periods.

Aftercare Tips:

• Remove faded flowers if desired, but allow the foliage to die back naturally.
• Do not remove green leaves, as they feed the bulb for next year's flowers.
• Leave bulbs undisturbed where possible to encourage naturalising.

Top Tip:
The warm copper-orange flowers look magnificent planted alongside deep blue Muscari, species irises or silver-leaved alpine plants for a striking spring display.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:
April – May (depending on season and conditions)

Height:
8–12" (20–30cm) (approx.)

Position:
Full sun

Hardy Perennial