Tulipa linifolia (Batalinii Group) Bright Gem

A fairly small but lovely tulip, Tulipa linifolia (Batalini Group) Bright Gem is a hardy, clump-forming, bulbous perennial with an upright habit, which does well in rockeries. The fairly narrow, wavy, strap-shaped leaves are grey-green. In March and April, large, soft sulphur-yellow flowers with an apricot flush appear on sturdy stems. Plant (wearing gloves) in November, to avoid the disease tulip fire, planting the bulbs to two and a half times their depth, pointed end up, and about the same apart. Alternatively, plant in soil-based compost with a little grit in containers. Tulips are bred to flower the next year in a stunning display, but this tulip, being a recent cultivar from the species, can be left in as it may naturalise in your garden. Dead-head after flowering (including the seed case behind the flower) and allow leaves to die down naturally. Tulipa Bright Gem holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit.

Site: Tolerates some exposure
Soil: Any reasonably fertile, fairly light, very well-drained soil
Position: Full sun
Season of interest: Early to mid-spring
Hardiness: Fully hardy
Height: up to 1 (30cm) Spread: 4 (10cm) in 1-2 years