Description and General Information:
This species tulip is relatively common in cultivation but much confusion exists in regards to the proper name. Most are in the industry as Tulipa batalinii. Properly these are referred to as Tulipa linifolia Batalinii Group. But Tulipa maximowiczii is yet another synonym. The species originates from gravelly slopes of Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, northern Iran and neighbouring areas of Afghanistan. Bulbous plants reach 20 cm with narrow, grey-green, wavy-margined, often red-edged leaves. The solitary flowers may be red to yellow or blended red and yellow. They are about 10 cm in diameter. Several cultivars exists. Within the Batalinii group are 'Bronze Charm', 'Red Gem', 'Bright Gem', 'Yellow Jewel' and 'Apricot Jewel'. 'Red Gem', Tulipa linifolia (commercial species) and Tulipa maximowiczii have petals with black bases.
'Apricot Jewel' 'Bright Gem'
Blooming Season:
March in the south to as late as early June in the north
Cultivation:
This species requires full sun and excellent drainage. The soil should be kept dry in the summer. In the wild they usually occur on limestone based soils. It is hardy from zones 4-8.
Tulipa maximowiczii
Propagation:
Generally this tulip is purchased as dormant bulbs. Established clumps may be dug and divided after plants go dormant. Seed is also an option with seeds sown in the fall. Pots should be left outside as seeds require a stratification period. It takes several years for the seeds to reach maturity.
Tulipa linifolia 'Red Gem'