Tulipa 'Ballerina'
A lily‑flowered tulip with slender, pointed petals in luminous tangerine orange. Blooms late in spring and carries a noticeable sweet perfume. Tall stems suit borders and cutting. Grows in USDA zones 3 to 8; treat as annual in warm‑winter regions.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: Lily‑Flowered
- Height × spread: 20–24 in (50–60 cm) × 4–6 in (10–15 cm)
- Bloom window: late spring
- Color & flower form: tangerine orange; lily‑flowered pointed petals
- Fragrance: 2 noticeable
- USDA hardiness: zones 3 to 8
- Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown
- Awards/registration: RHS Award of Garden Merit
- Cut‑flower notes: slender yet strong stems; about 5–7 days in vase
- Pet safety: avoid
How it differs
- Distinct lily‑flowered silhouette versus standard cup shape.
- Noticeable fragrance uncommon among tulips.
- Late bloom extends the tulip season.
Strengths
- Unique form and luminous color for combinations.
- Good stem quality for cutting.
- Proven performance signaled by the RHS AGM.
Care in one minute
- Full sun; well‑drained, moderately fertile soil.
- Plant 6–8 in deep and 4–6 in apart; water to settle.
- Light feed as foliage emerges; avoid wet soils in summer dormancy.
- Deadhead after bloom; allow foliage to die back naturally.
- Zones 8–10: pre‑chill bulbs and replant annually.
Watch‑outs
- Petals open wide in heat, shortening display on hot days.
- Less persistent than species tulips over multiple years.
- Disease pressure increases in wet springs; ensure air flow.
Best uses (tags)
cutting, borders, fragrance near paths, late season, containers
Provenance note
Long‑grown lily‑flowered selection; recognized with the RHS AGM.
Noted for fragrance and late bloom within the tulip season.
References
- RHS Plants – Tulipa ‘Ballerina’ (lily‑flowered; perfume, height)
- Missouri Botanical Garden – Tulipa (group) cultural guidance
- ASPCA – Tulip (Tulipa spp.) toxicity to pets
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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