Candia Tulip 'Lilac Wonder'

Tulipa saxatilis 'Lilac Wonder' is a charming botanical or species tulip originating from the rocky hillsides of Crete and the southern Aegean islands. Unlike many hybrid tulips, this species is reliable and often naturalises in UK gardens if given the right conditions. It produces clusters of two or three bowl-shaped flowers per stem, featuring delicate lilac-pink petals that open wide to reveal a conspicuous, brilliant yellow throat. The foliage is glossy green and strap-like, appearing early in the spring. This tulip is particularly suited to rockeries, gravel gardens, or the front of a sunny border where it can bake in the summer sun during its dormant period. It requires exceptionally well-drained soil to prevent bulbs from rotting during the wet UK winters. Planting at a greater depth (around 15-20cm) can help encourage the bulbs to return year after year. It is a stunning example of Mediterranean geophytes that thrive in British maritime climates.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Well-drained, gritty soil.

Hardiness: H5 — down to −15°C.

Flowering: Apr, May.