Water
Water thoroughly after planting bulbs in autumn and during dry spells in winter and early spring. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Reduce watering significantly once the foliage begins to yellow and die back after flowering.
Also known as Lady Tulip · Star Tulip
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Tulipa humilis, a charming species tulip, offers delicate, star-shaped blooms in spring. Ideal for rock gardens and naturalizing.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers a location with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal flowering and bulb health.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist during active growth, but allow slight drying between waterings. Reduce watering when foliage yellows.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Requires a period of cold dormancy (vernalization) in winter for spring blooming. Prefers cool spring temperatures and moderate summer heat.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Low
25% intensity
Benefit from a balanced fertilizer in spring. Over-fertilization can harm bulbs.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 2/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Bulbs are toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly after planting bulbs in autumn and during dry spells in winter and early spring. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Reduce watering significantly once the foliage begins to yellow and die back after flowering.
Deadheading spent flowers is recommended to prevent seed formation and direct energy back into the bulb. Allow the foliage to yellow and wither naturally; do not cut it back prematurely as this is crucial for replenishing the bulb's reserves for the following year's bloom.
Tulipa humilis primarily propagates through offsets (bulblets) that form around the mother bulb. Carefully separate these bulblets during the dormant season (summer) when repotting.
Plant them at the correct depth in well-draining soil. Flowering may take a year or two.
Repotting is generally not required annually. If overcrowding occurs or bulbs appear depleted, they can be lifted, inspected, and replanted in late summer or early autumn after the foliage has fully died back.
Ensure the new location offers good drainage and adequate sunlight.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Tulipa Humilis (Tulipa humilis)
Where Tulipa Humilis (Tulipa humilis) is found

Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Liliales |
| Family | Liliaceae |
| Genus | Tulipa |
| Species | Tulipa humilis |
Similar in genus Tulipa
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data