This tulip is native to sub-alpine meadows of the Tien Shan Mountains, central Asia. Plants reach 10-15 cm tall, with narrow, glossy leaves to 20 cm in length. The flowers are produced in clusters of 2-6 in early to mid-spring. Individual 5-7 cm diameter flowers are star-shaped, yellow with a white tip.
March in the south to May in the north.
This is among the easiest species tulip to cultivate. Plant the bulbs 10-15 cm deep in autumn. The soil should be well-drained but unlike many species tulips, this species can tolerate more humusy soil. It is not fussy about the soil pH. It is hardy through zone 3.
This tulip naturally multiplies quite easily. Larger clumps may be dug and divided once the foliage turns yellow. Seeds may be sown in the autumn, with free germination in spring. It takes about 3-4 years for seeds to reach flowering size.