Tulipa cretica, the Cretan Tulip, is a delicate wild tulip from Crete and surrounding islands, blooming with star-shaped flowers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers full sun for best flowering, though can tolerate partial shade.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings during growth, reduce significantly during dormancy.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Cool to Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers cool temperatures during active growth (10-18°C), requires a cold period for dormancy.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Low
25% intensity
Feed lightly during the growing season; no fertilizer needed during dormancy.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry during the growing season.
Reduce watering significantly after flowering, allowing the soil to dry out as the foliage begins to yellow and die back in preparation for dormancy. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to bulb rot.
Remove spent flowers (deadheading) as soon as they fade to prevent seed production and conserve energy for the bulb. Allow the foliage to yellow and die back naturally before cutting it away.
This process nourishes the bulb for the following year's bloom.
Tulipa cretica is primarily propagated by offsets (bulblets) that form around the parent bulb. Carefully separate these bulblets during the dormant season (summer) and replant them.
Flowering size may take 1-2 years to achieve.
Repotting is generally not necessary annually. If bulbs become overcrowded or the soil is depleted, repot them in late summer or early autumn. Use well-draining potting mix and plant bulbs at a depth of about 10-15 cm.
Ensure good air circulation.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Cretan Tulip (Tulipa cretica)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Liliales |
| Family | Liliaceae |
| Genus | Tulipa |
| Species | Tulipa cretica |
Similar in genus Tulipa
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
