Wild Tulip 'Saxatalis'

Wild Tulip 'Saxatilis': The Cretan Rock Garden Gem

Wild Tulip 'Saxatilis' is a robust and historically significant botanical tulip, originating from the rocky slopes of Crete. It is the larger, more vigorous cousin of 'Lilac Wonder', renowned for its ability to form impressive colonies in the garden. This variety is distinct for its multi-flowering habit; mature bulbs often produce two or three blooms on a single stem. The flowers are a cool, silvery lilac-pink that open flat in the warmth of the sun to display a large, vibrant yellow heart. 'Saxatilis' is a true survivor, thriving in locations where hybrid tulips might struggle, making it an exceptional choice for sunny banks, rockeries, and dry borders.

• Bicolour Beauty: Features a sophisticated palette of soft lilac-pink petals with a broad, glowing yellow base. The petals have a satin-like sheen that glistens in the spring light.

• Multi-Flowering Habit: Unlike many tulips that offer just one bloom per stem, well-established 'Saxatilis' bulbs can produce a small bouquet on a single stalk, providing more colour for your investment.

• Aggressive Naturaliser: This tulip is unique in that it spreads via underground runners (stolons). While most tulips stay in clumps, 'Saxatilis' will wander and spread to fill gaps in the rockery or border, creating a natural, carpet-like effect over time.

• Drought Tolerance: True to its Mediterranean roots, it loves a hot, dry summer dormancy. It is perfectly suited for gravel gardens or spots that get baked by the sun.

Gardener's Tip: "The Neglect Method"

'Saxatilis' is one of the few tulips that actually prefers a bit of neglect rather than pampering. To get the best performance, adopt "The Neglect Method." Plant them in your sunniest, best-drained spot (adding grit if the soil is heavy) and then—crucially—ignore them. Do not water them in summer. They require a baking hot, dry period during their dormancy to ripen the bulbs for next year's flowers. If you have a spot where other plants die from lack of summer water, this is the perfect home for 'Saxatilis'.

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