Lady Tulip 'Cynthia'

A charming and slender species-type tulip, Tulipa clusiana 'Cynthia' is highly regarded in the UK for its elegant, pointed petals. The exterior of the flower is a soft rose-red, while the interior reveals a pale primrose-yellow with a darker central eye. Unlike many larger hybrid tulips that fail after one season, this variety is relatively reliable at returning each year if provided with excellent drainage. It typically reaches a height of 25-30cm, making it ideal for rock gardens or the edges of sunny borders. It opens its flowers wide in the sunshine to create a star-like appearance. In the UK, it thrives in a sheltered, south-facing spot where the bulbs can bake in the summer sun during their dormant period. It is fully hardy across most of Britain but resents waterlogged soil during the winter months.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil.

Hardiness: H6 — down to −20°C.

Flowering: Apr, May.