Botanical Tulip Flamingo 'Albocaerulea Oculata'

This rare and exquisite botanical tulip is a true gem for the specialist Mediterranean garden. Native to high-altitude regions of the Middle East, it is diminutive in size but high in impact. In early to mid-spring, it produces pointed, egg-shaped white flowers that open to reveal a startling, deep steel-blue base at the heart of the bloom. This 'oculata' (eyed) feature is highly sought after by collectors. Growing only about 10-15cm tall, it is best placed in a rock garden, alpine trough, or at the edge of a gravel path where its intricate beauty can be appreciated closely. In the UK, the biggest challenge is winter wet; as such, it must have extremely gritty, free-draining soil and a sunny position. It is fully hardy (H5) but requires a dry summer dormancy to thrive. The narrow foliage is grey-green and stays low to the ground.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Gritty, very well-drained soil.

Hardiness: H5 — down to −15°C.

Flowering: Mar, Apr.