Tulipa Negrita

Description

Tulipa Negrita, also known as the Black Tulip, is a popular spring-blooming bulb in the Liliaceae family. This stunning flower is native to Turkey and is considered a hybrid tulip. It is a perennial plant that grows up to 18 inches in height and blooms in mid to late spring. This tulip is prized for its deep, velvety purple-black blooms that have a slightly wavy edge. It has a long vase life and can last up to two weeks in a bouquet.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Tulipa Negrita has a single stem that grows up to 18 inches tall. It produces one flower per stem that is around 3-4 inches in diameter. The bloom is a deep, velvety purple-black color with a slightly wavy edge. The inner petals are slightly paler than the outer petals, and the center of the bloom is yellow with black stamens. The leaves of this tulip are long and narrow, and they grow up to 14 inches long. They are a grayish-green color and have a waxy texture.

Care Guide

Tulipa Negrita is an easy plant to care for and requires minimal attention. Here is a care guide for this bulb:

Water: Water the bulbs when planting and then only if the soil becomes dry. In general, tulips do not like to be watered too much, and overwatering can cause the bulbs to rot.

Fertilization: Tulips do not need much fertilizer, but you can add a slow-release granular fertilizer when planting to give them a boost. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers as they can cause the stems to grow too long and flop over.

Soil: Tulips prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. They do not like heavy clay soils that retain too much moisture. If your soil is heavy, you can amend it with compost or sand to improve drainage.

Sunlight: Tulipa Negrita prefers full sun to partial shade. They need at least six hours of sunlight per day to bloom properly.

Hardiness Zones: Tulipa Negrita is hardy in zones 3-8.

Common Pests & Diseases

Tulipa Negrita is generally not bothered by pests or diseases, but here are a few to watch out for:

Aphids: These small, pear-shaped insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause distorted growth. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.

Mice: Mice may eat the bulbs of tulips, especially during the winter months. You can protect the bulbs by planting them in wire mesh cages.

Botrytis: This fungal disease can cause the flowers and leaves to turn brown and mushy. It is caused by wet, humid conditions and can be prevented by providing good air circulation around the plants.

Habitat

Tulipa Negrita is native to Turkey and prefers a well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. It is a popular garden plant and is often used in borders, rock gardens, and containers. It is also a popular cut flower and is often used in floral arrangements.

Question and Answer

Q: When is the best time to plant Tulipa Negrita?

A: Tulipa Negrita should be planted in the fall, around 6-8 weeks before the ground freezes. This allows the bulbs to establish roots before winter sets in.

Q: Can Tulipa Negrita be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Tulipa Negrita can be grown in containers. Make sure the container is at least 8-10 inches deep and has drainage holes. Plant the bulbs as you would in the ground and water as needed.

Q: How long does it take for Tulipa Negrita to bloom?

A: Tulipa Negrita blooms in mid to late spring, around 6-8 weeks after planting.

Q: Can Tulipa Negrita be grown in warm climates?

A: Tulipa Negrita is not well-suited for warm climates as it requires a cold period in order to bloom properly.

Related Plants

• Tulipa ‘Queen of Night’
• Tulipa ‘Black Parrot’
• Tulipa ‘Ronaldo’
• Tulipa ‘Night Rider’

References

• “Tulip ‘Negrita’.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b526
• “Tulipa ‘Negrita’.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/67692/Tulipa-Negrita/Details
• “Tulip Negrita.” Longfield Gardens. https://www.longfield-gardens.com/article/Tulip-Negrita-Flower-Bulbs