In the early spring tulip bloom at the xeriscape gardens there are more non-hybridized wild tulips Red Riding Hood tulips and big red Species tulips take the stage. These low-growing natives are kind of mind-blowing when you first see them. It starts with the first signs of the green and purple striped foliage of Red Riding Hood tulips. Often this gets nibbled on by critters – perhaps rabbits? But it does not stop them from growing in the least!
Then the big, stubby buds of red Species tulips begin to appear. Their long, whimsical, green foliage looking almost like tentacles as they spread out.
Both of these varieties of wild tulips look right at home in their rocky digs.
After all the shades of purples from Dwarf Iris, Pasque Flowers and Grape Hyacinths these big, bright red blooms make the rather stark xeric gardens pop!
They are a delight to photograph. And truth be told, I find more favor in these native tulips than their conventional hybridized brethren.
Non-Hybridized Wild Tulips
Much like the wildflower miniature tulips, these non-hybridized wild tulips grow and spread randomly. Perhaps we’re so accustomed to seeing tall tulip stems with one flower sitting a top that these seem odd. They are not in perfectly orchestrated rows that’s for sure! Naturalizing on their own, they are more like clusters here and there. Perhaps that’s what makes them so appealing, they’re wild. Given the right conditions, they just do their own thing.
This season’s photos of Red Riding Hood tulips did not disappoint. With their distinct purple and green striped broad leaves and bright red flowers, they are hard to miss. As you can see they thrive in the rocky gardens.
Next in this photo showcase are the red Species tulips. These too are low-growing, non-hybridized, native tulips. With their clusters of big red blooms and long, whimsical foliage, it makes you appreciate these sturdy varieties. In the photos below you can see how they grow and are right at home in the rocky gardens. FYI, the flower blooms REALLY are that bright red!
Knowing these varieties of tulips exist, you may want to consider them for your garden. Given their origins, they are drought tolerant and will brighten up a rocky, xeric garden for sure!
By the Prickly Pear Cactus
Last, but certainly not least is this fella. Much like the little yellow wildflower tulips who popped up by the primo real estate within the prickly pear, there’s this bright red botanical tulip. He’s no stranger to this spot as I’ve captured photos of him in season’s past.
What can you say? Talk about a contrast of colors and textures. Bold and beautiful, you gotta love it. The tricky part is getting the photo without falling into the cactus 😉
If you enjoyed this tulips post, check out these too:
● Red Riding Hood Native Tulips
● Red Species Tulips – from Fat Buds to Big Blooms