When we consider that there are more than 100 miniature narcissi, almost 100 tulip species (including their varieties), at least 75 species of crocus, and hosts of other miniature bulbs, we can readily understand that we are dealing with a large field.
Because of the tremendous popularity generated by the large exhibitions at the various spring flower shows and the deep satisfaction attained by thousands of small homeowners, it seems desirable to bring order into this group of miniature plants.
At the moment, we have two groups approaching this exciting field.
One is the connoisseur who spends considerable money, is blessed with a tremendous amount of time, and is obsessed with a desire to attain almost the impossible.
On the other hand, practical gardeners have taken the more lavish and popular varieties and splashed them across the face of the American landscape.
Tulipa Fosteriana “Flamboyant Red Emperor”
One of the best-known miniatures is Tulipa fosteriana. However, its most popular variety is Red Emperor, which is not a miniature and does not belong in this group.
It grows 20″ inches tall, has striking red flowers, and has an amazingly-short flowering span.
It is often endangered by brisk March winds, which tend to tear it. In addition, it is speckled easily by whipping.
Cold rains cannot protect themselves by closing rapidly as the miniatures do.
Add to these characteristics large foliage that takes a distressingly long to die back and disappear. Therefore, this tulip is one of the least desirable for these reasons.
If you wish to use this tulip, it is best planted in groups of 10 or 12 in a spot well protected by evergreens.
To its best advantage, it requires a solid green background to set off its striking, vivid, adult color.
Tulipa Fosteriana “Princeps”
Far superior in every way is Tulipa fosteriana Princeps, only 12” inches tall, has long-lasting qualities, and is a brilliant vermilion-scarlet red.
It closes up rapidly in dull weather, thus protecting itself against sudden storms, and when it opens again in the sunshine, it is untarnished.
None of the brilliant red species should be overplanted, especially in small gardens.
Tulipa Kaufmanniana “Gaiety”
Among the tulip species is a short gem called Tulipa kaufmanniana Gaiety, which grows only 4″ inches tall.
The flowers, nesting on the leaves, are large, creamy white, with an orange base and a red stripe on each petal’s outer side.
A drift of these planted in your garden is a joy you will long remember. The fact that it blossoms in early April makes this a desirable variety.
Tulipa Kaufmanniana “Caesar Franck”
Another of the Tulipa kaufmanniana forms is Caesar Franck, with flowers of a magnificent shade of chrome yellow on the interior.
The outside petals are a brilliant, rosy red, with a large yellow margin contrasting beautifully with its green-brownish, striped foliage.
To come suddenly upon a group of a dozen or more in the flower border or a foundation planting is an unforgettable sight.
Tulipa Praestans “Fusilier”
We find it imperative to mention Tulipa praestans Fusilier. A unit of 10 bulbs, planted in a group or drifts, will produce 40 blossoms at the base of a wall or on the flower border.
This is because each bulb has four to six flowers per stem. It is low growing, only 8” inches in height, and in color, it is brilliant orange-scarlet.
The blossoms rise out of luscious, dark-green leaves.
Tulipa Linifolia
Moving into the mid-season or into the middle of May and continuing with the dazzling reds, we recommend a small, 6” inch tulip that is fast becoming a favorite — Tulipa linifolia.
This tulip differs because its flowers are delightfully bowl-shaped.
There are many more reds from which to choose, but from leading advertisements, one is led to believe that this is the only color available.
Tulipa Battling
A fascinating companion for Tulipa linifolia is little known and is cream-colored Tulipa battling. In bud, it is butter yellow.
On cloudy days the bud has a charming appeal, resembling a rose. It grows 6” inches tall.
Tulipa Clusiana
Among the middle-of-May bloomers is the well-known lady tulip, Tulipa clusiana. For many years it has added Lady-like grace to gardens.
The flowers are white, with outside petals of cherry red, and the height of this exquisite tulip is 10” to 12” inches.
Good Planting Conditions
It is important to remember that all tulip species require full sun. They grow considerably taller when planted in the shade, and the bulbs deteriorate quickly.
They like well-drained soil; in fact, they dislike soggy, wet ground.
Small bulbs should be planted 4″ to 5″ inches deep and 3″ to 4″ inches from the species’ tulips.
Tulipa fostering and Tulipa kaufmanniana should be set 6″ to 8″ inches deep and 4″ to 6″ inches apart.
For a thrill in growing bulbs, we recommend the tiny Cyclamen europaeum, a native of the Alps.
To develop a number of these is a real adventure. It is incredibly hardy, blooming in August and September.
The flowers are a beautiful crimson, varying in color, with a delicious violet scent from which the German name “alpine violets” is derived.
The leaves are round, heart-shaped, dark green, and red on the outside. Though referred to as a rare bulb, it has been known for many years.
One reason why gardeners occasionally fail with it is that the bulbs dislike the thawing and freezing of the early Spring. They, therefore, require covering.
Even with all this advice, growing cyclamen is an adventure. Seeing it will take some real persuading; it may not keep its rendezvous with you next fall.
Other delightful small bulbs worth a try include the alliums, crocus species, fritillarias, Galanthus, miniature iris, and the dainty grape hyacinths.
Indeed growing miniature bulbs have become exceedingly popular in the past few years because many modern gardens are small in size.
Then, with the development of patios and terraces, enjoying these delicate plants at close range is possible.
44659 by Alexander I. Heimlich And Jean Thibodeau