Tulipa agenensis aka Eyed Tulip

Tulipa agenensis blooms in mid to late spring, typically March through April. The flowers are striking and distinctive—bright scarlet-red with a prominent dark purple or black basal blotch (the 'eye' that gives this species its common name 'Eyed Tulip'), often edged with yellow. Each stem bears a single cup-shaped flower that opens wide in direct sunlight. The blooms are short-lived but dramatic, lasting 1-2 weeks under ideal conditions.

Tulipa agenensis typically reaches 20-40 cm (8-16 inches) in height when in flower. The plant produces 2-4 narrow, lance-shaped, gray-green (glaucous) leaves that emerge first, followed by the flowering stem. Individual plants spread about 10-15 cm wide. As a species tulip, it tends to be smaller and more delicate than hybrid garden tulips but often perennializes better in suitable climates.

Tulipa agenensis propagates primarily through bulb offsets that form around the mother bulb. After flowering, the bulb naturally produces small daughter bulbs that can be separated and replanted when dormant in late summer. Seed propagation is possible but slow, taking 4-7 years from seed to flowering-size bulbs. Plant bulbs in autumn at a depth of approximately three times the bulb's height, with the pointed end facing upward.

Yes, Tulipa agenensis is suited for outdoor cultivation in USDA zones 5-8. As a Mediterranean native, it thrives in areas with cool, moist winters and warm, dry summers. The bulbs require winter cold (vernalization) to trigger spring flowering and must remain dry during summer dormancy. In regions with wet summers, plant in raised beds or rock gardens with excellent drainage to prevent bulb rot.

Tulipa agenensis requires cold winter temperatures for vernalization—a period of cold exposure that triggers flowering. Bulbs need 12-16 weeks below 10°C (50°F) to initiate flower development. During active growth in spring, moderate temperatures of 10-18°C (50-65°F) are ideal. The plants tolerate light frost but flowers may be damaged by hard freezes. Hot temperatures above 21°C (70°F) signal the end of the growing season and the beginning of dormancy.

The primary threats to Tulipa agenensis are fungal diseases, particularly bulb rot (Fusarium, Botrytis) in poorly drained soils. Fire blight (Botrytis tulipae) can cause brown spots on leaves and flowers. Deer may browse flowers and foliage. Aphids occasionally infest plants but rarely cause serious damage.

After flowering, remove spent flower stems promptly to prevent seed formation and redirect energy to the bulb. However, do not remove the foliage until it has yellowed and died back naturally (typically 6-8 weeks after flowering). The leaves are essential for photosynthesis, allowing the bulb to store energy for next year's bloom. Simply tuck yellowing foliage behind other plants rather than braiding or cutting it.

Tulipa agenensis is pollinated by insects, primarily bees that are attracted to the colorful petals. The bright red flowers with contrasting dark center blotches serve as visual guides for pollinators. In the absence of pollinators, tulips can self-pollinate, though cross-pollination produces more viable seeds. For ornamental purposes, pollination is not necessary as the bulbs propagate vegetatively.

Tulipa agenensis is native to the eastern Mediterranean region, with its natural range extending across Turkey, Iran, Cyprus, the Aegean Islands, Syria, Lebanon, Israel, Jordan, and Palestine. The species has naturalized in the central and western Mediterranean, including Italy, Tunisia, France, Portugal, and Moldova. The species name 'agenensis' references the city of Agen in southwestern France, where naturalized populations were documented.

Lift and divide Tulipa agenensis bulbs during summer dormancy after the foliage has completely died back (typically June-August). This is the ideal time to separate offsets, inspect bulbs for rot or damage, and replant in fresh locations. In containers, repot annually with fresh, well-draining soil mix.

Tulipa agenensis shows natural variation across its wide geographic range, with some populations having more pronounced yellow edges on the petals or varying intensities of the basal blotch. Several subspecies and closely related taxa have been described, though taxonomic treatment varies. Unlike hybrid garden tulips, T. agenensis is typically sold as the species without named cultivars. Collectors value wild-origin bulbs from different source populations.

With its straightforward care requirements, Eyed Tulip is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.

Eyed Tulip should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Eyed Tulip loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Eyed Tulip requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Sun's Eye Tulip will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

The Eyed Tulip is not in need of supplementary humidity. Most water is taken in by plants through their roots, thus soil watering is the most efficient way to provide humidity to your plants.

The Eyed Tulip should be repotted either when it doubles in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing new potting soil with all the vital nutrients annually is enough to support the growth of the plant, and thus, there is no need for fertilizer. Remember that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

During the wintertime, it is common for Eyed Tulip plants to go dormant and their growth rate may slow down. Therefore, the amount of waterings should be spaced out more.