Culture
Best grown in sandy, gravely, well-draining soils in full sun. Can also be naturalized in a lawn. Hardy in Zones 4-8. Will not tolerate poorly drained soils. Requires even moisture during the growing season, but reduced watering from fall through winter. After flowering, allow the foliage to completely die back before removing.
Noteworthy Characteristics
Tulipa humilis is a botanical tulip native to high altitude, rocky slopes in the Middle East. The size and color of the blooms can vary widely, but are typically 3" across, held on 6" tall stems, and range from light pink to bright magenta in color. The grey-green foliage is narrow and linear, reaching up to 6" long. Will form offsets and spread slowly to fill a small area.
Genus name comes the Latinized version of the Turkish name tulbend meaning a turban.
The specific epithet humilis means "dwarf, low, or small", possibly in reference to the short stature of this species.
'Eastern Star' features bright magenta petal-like tepals with yellow bases. Its foliage and growth habit are similar to the species.
Problems
Bulb and root rots may occur, particularly in wet, poorly drained soils. Gray mold. Mosaic virus may also occur. Animal pests include aphids, slugs and snails. Mice and voles are attracted to the bulbs. Squirrels may dig up newly planted bulbs.
Uses
Lawns, gravel gardens, rock gardens, alpine gardens, border edges.