Description

Tulip pulchella Persian Pearl is one of the most admired species tulips, bringing intense colour and natural charm to gardens. Its vivid, magenta-purple petals open wide to reveal a golden-yellow base, producing a dazzling contrast that lights up rockeries, troughs, or naturalised plantings. When fully open in sunlight, the flowers take on a star-like form, making them as striking as any large tulip despite their diminutive size.

Growing just 10–15 cm tall, Persian Pearl is an early bloomer that thrives in alpine gardens, gravel beds, and containers. It is ideal for naturalising, spreading gradually through offsets to create cheerful colonies. Its jewel-toned colours combine beautifully with other early bulbs like Scilla siberica, Chionodoxa, and dwarf narcissi.

Biodiversity-wise, this tulip offers excellent value, as its open flower form is easily accessed by bees and early pollinators. It is particularly important in pollinator-friendly planting schemes, bridging the gap between winter-flowering bulbs and later spring perennials.

Plant bulbs in autumn in a sunny, well-drained spot — raised beds, sandy soils, or even green roofs are perfect. Hardy, long-lived, and self-sustaining, Persian Pearl is a true gem for gardeners who want both beauty and ecological benefit.