Tulip (Tulipa greigii 'Oratorio') TEW-lih-pah GREEG-ee-eye Genus:  Tulipa Known for being reliably perennial, Tulipa ‘Oratorio’ (introduced in 1952) blooms in midspring and has splayed, flashy maroon-mottled leaves. It is a standout in the garden from the moment the exquisite heavily striped leaves emerge. Its dazzling 14- to 16-inch-tall coral pink flowers are an added bonus. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Greigii tulips is one group made up entirely of plants with variegated leaves. Care:  Grow in fertile, well-drained soil in full or afternoon sun. Use them in containers or raised beds if soil drains poorly. Plant to a depth of two and a half times the height of the bulb. In regions warmer than Zone 8, bulbs will need a cold treatment (40° to 45°F for 8 to 10 weeks). Propagation: 

 For more bulbs, lift plants in summer and remove the offsets (small lateral bulblets). In fall, replant the bulbs and offsets and fertilize with low-nitrogen fertilizer.

Problems: 

 Bulb and root rot, gray mold, slugs, snails, aphids, nematodes, voles.

Overview

Height 1 ft. to 3 ft. Growth Habit Clumps Growth Pace Moderate Grower Light Full Sun to Part Shade Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Low Characteristics Showy Foliage Bloom Time Late Spring, Spring Flower Color Pink Foliage Color Variegated Foliage Uses Beds and Borders, Container, Cut Flower, Naturalizing Style Formal Garden, Cottage Garden Seasonal Interest Spring Interest Tolerance Frost Tolerant Type Bulbs