Tulip 'Calypso' (Greigii): Orange-Red Blooms with Stippled Foliage

Overview

Tulipa greigii 'Calypso' (1992) is a reliably perennial Greigii tulip, just 12 inches tall, with decorative stippled leaves and large orange-red flowers rimmed in primrose yellow with a black base. Greigii tulips are unique—every cultivar has variegated foliage, providing interest before and after bloom. Early to mid-spring flowering.

Growing Conditions

Full sun to part shade in fertile, well-drained soil. Plant bulbs 6-8 inches deep in fall. Zones warmer than 8 need 8-10 weeks cold treatment (40-45°F). Containers or raised beds for poor drainage.

Care and Maintenance

Allow foliage to die back naturally. Lift bulbs in summer, remove offsets, replant in fall with low-nitrogen fertilizer. Protect from rodents and excess moisture.

Common Problems

Bulb rot, gray mold, slugs, snails, aphids, nematodes, voles. Good drainage essential.

Landscape Uses

• Beds and borders
• Container plantings (excellent in pots)
• Cut flowers
• Rock gardens
• Cottage and formal gardens

Key Features

• Greigii tulip (all have variegated foliage)
• Reliably perennial
• Orange-red flowers with primrose rim, black base
• Stippled decorative foliage
• 12 inches tall
• Early to mid-spring bloom
• Frost tolerant