Tulip 'Oratorio' (Greigii): Coral Pink Blooms with Maroon-Mottled Foliage

Overview

Tulipa greigii 'Oratorio' (1952) is a standout Greigii tulip with splayed, flashy maroon-mottled leaves that emerge early and dazzle before the flowers appear. In mid-spring, 14-16 inch stems bear dazzling coral pink blooms. Like all Greigii tulips, it has variegated foliage and reliably perennializes.

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). Use containers or raised beds if drainage is poor.

Care and Maintenance

Allow foliage to yellow naturally. Lift bulbs in summer, remove offsets, replant in fall with low-nitrogen fertilizer. Protect from rodents and wet soil.

Common Problems

Bulb rot, gray mold, slugs, snails, aphids, nematodes, voles. Excellent drainage prevents most issues.

Landscape Uses

• Beds and borders
• Container plantings
• Cut flowers
• Naturalizing (returns reliably)
• Formal and cottage gardens

Key Features

• Greigii tulip (variegated foliage group)
• Reliably perennial
• Coral pink flowers
• Spectacular maroon-mottled foliage
• 14-16 inches tall
• Mid-spring bloom
• Frost tolerant