Tulipa ‘Montana’: The Alluring Mountain Tulip
Tulipa ‘Montana’, also known as Tulipa montana ‘Chrysantha’ or Tulipa wilsoniana, is a captivating perennial bulb belonging to the Liliaceae family. This hardy bulb is native to the mountainous regions of Iran and Turkmenistan and is celebrated for its striking red flowers and resilience in various growing conditions. With its deep red petals and distinctive central blotch, Tulipa ‘Montana’ has even been suggested as a candidate for the Biblical Rose of Sharon.
Background and Botanical Information
Family: Liliaceae
Genus: Tulipa
Common Names: Montana Tulip, Wilson’s Tulip
Origin: Iran and Turkmenistan
The Latin-specific epithet montana refers to mountains or coming from mountains, highlighting the tulip’s natural habitat in the stony hills and rocky outcrops of northwestern Iran. This species was first discovered in Persia in 1826 and was described by John Lindley in 1827 in The Botanical Register.
Description
Height: 15–20 cm (6–8 inches)
Foliage: Glaucous leaves
Flowers: Cup-shaped, deep red with a greenish-black central blotch and yellow anthers. Blooms appear in early spring and can range in color from scarlet and crimson to the deepest blood-red. There are also yellow morphs found in the wild.
Habit: Low-growing, forming a compact clump
Tulipa ‘Montana’ produces some of the most alluring flowers among the smaller tulip species. Richard Wilford, in his book “Tulips,” describes it as “one of the most alluring of the smaller tulip species.” The flowers are borne on short stems, making them less susceptible to wind damage and adding to their robust nature.
Cultivation and Care of Tulipa ‘Montana’:
Sun/Light Exposure: Full sun is ideal for the best flower display.
Soil: Well-drained, moderately fertile soil. This tulip is particularly well-suited to gravelly or sandy soils that mimic its natural mountainous habitat.
Watering:
- Containers Outdoors: Ensure the compost is not sodden during wet weather. If necessary, move containers to a sheltered position or an unheated greenhouse until the compost dries out. During dry weather, water regularly once leaves appear to prevent poor development.
- In Borders: Typically, no additional watering is needed if there is sufficient rainfall. Water only during prolonged dry periods to keep the soil moist.
Planting: Plant bulbs in the autumn (September to November) at a depth of about 20 cm (8 inches). Incorporate plenty of organic matter into the planting hole to improve soil structure and fertility.
Feeding: Feed weekly with a potassium-rich liquid fertilizer, such as tomato feed, once in growth from March onwards. Feeding supports growth and flowering, returning essential nutrients to the bulb.
Deadheading: Remove seed heads after flowering by cutting off the stalk just above the leaves to prevent energy loss and encourage reflowering.
Encouraging Reflowering: Tulipa ‘Montana’ naturalizes well, meaning it can remain in the same position for many years, spreading gradually. For other tulip varieties that often fail to flower in their second year, lift and store bulbs over the summer to simulate their natural dry rest period. Replant stored bulbs in the autumn.
Propagation
Methods:
- Offsets: These are immature bulbs that naturally form around the main bulb. Detach offsets when lifting plants and store them dry over the summer. Replant in autumn at a depth of 20 cm. Small offsets may take 3-4 years to reach flowering size.
- Seeds: Specialist tulips, like Tulipa ‘Montana’, can be propagated from seed. Collect seeds in the current year and sow in pots or trays of loam-based compost. Cover lightly with sieved compost and a layer of horticultural grit. Leave containers outdoors to allow natural chilling for germination. Seedlings typically take 3-4 years to reach flowering size.
Pests and Diseases
Pests: Tulipa ‘Montana’ may be susceptible to aphids, which can be controlled with appropriate measures.
Diseases: This tulip is relatively disease-resistant but may be prone to bulb rot in poorly drained soils.
Seasonal Interest
Spring: Deep red flowers with a greenish-black blotch and yellow anthers create a striking display.
Summer: Foliage remains attractive before dying back.
Autumn/Winter: Bulbs rest underground, preparing for the next growing season.
Landscaping Uses
Tulipa ‘Montana’ is ideal for:
- Rock gardens
- Alpine gardens
- Gravel gardens
- Container planting
- Front-of-border planting
Its compact size and vibrant color make it a versatile choice for adding early spring color to various garden settings.
Conclusion
Tulipa ‘Montana’ is a jewel among tulips, offering breathtaking blooms and a hardy nature suitable for a variety of garden environments. With proper care and attention to its natural habitat preferences, this mountain tulip will thrive, bringing a touch of exotic and historical allure to your garden. Whether planted in containers, rock gardens, or borders, Tulipa ‘Montana’ is sure to captivate with its deep red flowers and graceful form.
