Tulipa saxatilis is a plant with deep roots. Native to Crete and the Aegean islands, it has adapted to dry, rocky slopes where few other plants can survive. Its origins are reflected in its character: compact, hardy and reliable. Lilac petals with a striking yellow centre — a combination that sounds simple but always catches the eye in the garden.
Spreading via runners
Tulipa saxatilis has a unique way of propagating: it spreads via underground runners, also known as stolons. This makes it one of the most effective naturalisers amongst botanical tulips. Plant ten, and after a few years you’ll have twenty. It takes over the space slowly but surely — never intrusive, always welcome.
Planting and combining
Plant the bulbs in autumn in a sunny, well-drained spot, at a depth of about 10 cm. They thrive in dry summers — do not water them after flowering. They thrive in a rockery or on a raised, stony bed. Combine them with Muscari or Scilla for an early splash of colour and a naturalistic effect. They also do very well in a pot on a sunny balcony. Organically grown, certified NL-BIO-01.