Tulip, Didier's tulip

Tulipa gesneriana

Physical Characteristics

Tulipa gesneriana is a BULB growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from April to May. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

The origin of this plant is obscure, though it is naturalized in S.W. Europe.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Edible Uses: Bulb - cooked[22, 61]. It can be dried and ground into a powder and then mixed with cereals when making bread etc[46, 105]. Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity.

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

The bulb and the flowers have been known to cause dermatitis in sensitive people, though up to 5 bulbs a day can be eaten without ill-effect[65].