Overview
Tulipa praestans is a bulbous perennial in the Liliaceae family, notable for producing multiple flowers per stem — typically 2–5 per scape — a trait uncommon among tulip species. Plants grow 8–14 inches (20–35 cm) tall from a tunicate bulb 1–1.5 inches (2.5–4 cm) in diameter. Leaves are broad, ovate to lance-shaped, 4–8 inches (10–20 cm) long and 2–3 inches (5–8 cm) wide, grey-green, lightly hairy, clasping the stem at the base. Flowers are cup-shaped, 2–3 inches (5–8 cm) across when open, with six broad, rounded tepals in bright orange-red to scarlet, each with a small dark basal blotch. The multi-flowered habit means a single bulb produces a cluster effect without the need for dense planting. The cultivar 'Fusilier' is most commonly grown, producing 3–5 vivid orange-red flowers per stem on compact 8–10 inch (20–25 cm) plants. 'Unicum' has variegated cream-margined leaves. Native to the mountains of Central Asia (Tajikistan), where it grows on rocky slopes at 5,000–8,500 feet (1,500–2,600 m). Among the most reliable tulip species for perennialising — bulbs return for 5–10+ years in well-drained soil without the annual replanting required by many hybrid tulips. Susceptible to tulip fire (Botrytis tulipae) in wet springs and to slugs on emerging shoots.
Native Range
Tulipa praestans is native to the Pamir-Alai mountains of Tajikistan in Central Asia, where it grows on rocky, stony slopes and in light scrub at elevations of 5,000–8,500 feet (1,500–2,600 m). Introduced to Western cultivation in 1903.Suggested Uses
Planted in rock gardens, raised beds, gravel gardens, and at the front of sunny borders, spaced 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) apart in groups of 10–20 for maximum impact. The multi-flowered habit means fewer bulbs produce a denser colour effect than single-flowered species. The cultivar 'Fusilier' is a standard for reliable perennial tulip planting. Effective in containers (minimum 3 gallons / 11 L) with bulbs planted 3 inches (8 cm) apart.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height8" - 1'2"
Width/Spread4" - 6"
Reaches mature size in approximately 1 years
Bloom Information
Flowers open in mid to late April in the Pacific Northwest, approximately 1–2 weeks before Darwin hybrid tulips. Each stem bears 2–5 flowers that open sequentially over 7–10 days. Individual flowers last 7–10 days in cool weather, less in warm spells. Bloom period is approximately 2–3 weeks. Pollinated by bees.Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
Bright orange-red to scarletFoliage Description
Grey-green, lightly hairyGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-10 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Plant bulbs 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) deep and 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) apart in autumn (October–November). Site in full sun in well-drained, moderately fertile soil with a pH of 6.5–7.5. Sharp drainage is essential for perennialising — amend heavy clay with coarse grit. After flowering, allow foliage to yellow and die back naturally (6 weeks). Do not remove green leaves or braid them. Feed with a potassium-rich bulb fertiliser at planting and again in early spring. Unlike most hybrid tulips, T. praestans reliably returns for many years without lifting and replanting, provided drainage is adequate and summer dormancy is dry.Pruning
Remove spent flower stems at the base after petals drop to prevent seed set and redirect energy to the bulb. Leave foliage until it yellows completely (typically mid-June). No other pruning required.Pruning Schedule
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
late spring
Maintenance Level
very lowContainer Growing
✓ Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 3 gallons