Since the 17th century tulips have been bred to be larger and more vivid. These hybrids are what my friend, Jill, calls 50 mile per hour bulbs. Flowers that catch your eye even as you zoom past on the highway.
The same can't be said for species tulips. Many of which are short (12" or less) with small (2" or less) flowers. However, species tulips are usually fragrant, multi-flowered, and perennial with interesting foliage. Characteristics which are easily appreciated in smaller gardens. Plus some originate in montane environments and easily adapt to container culture.
Tulip turkestanica with its cluster of star-shaped flowers atop architectural, glaucous leaves puts on an incredible show. They explode from the ground in early spring and open their white stars on sunny days. I planted a mass in 2007 and was WOWed in 2008. They produced copiuos seed and I'm waiting to see how they naturalize in a Chicago garden. Stay tuned.
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