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Wild Tulip Bulbs 'In The Green' (Tulipa sylvestris)

Wild Tulip Bulbs In The Green (Tulipa sylvestris)

February Delivery

100% Native Wildflower Species

Wild Tulip Bulbs 'In The Green' (Tulipa sylvestris)

Tulipa sylvestris, flowering in April, has rich yellow blooms and a sweet scent. They are the only relative of the common garden tulip found wild in Britain.

Height: 30cm
Flowers: April
Planting Depth: 10-15cm
Soil Type: Well-drained

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Why Choose Wildflower Bulbs in the Green?

Wildflower bulbs in the green offer a dependable way to establish spring-flowering wildflowers. Unlike dry bulbs, which are planted in autumn, bulbs in the green are supplied to you in an active stage of growth with visible roots and leaves.

Gardeners love them for many reasons:

Alive and thriving – you can see healthy leaves and roots at planting.
Strong establishment – freshly lifted roots settle quickly into the soil.
Fast results – many species flower within weeks.
Simple to plant – visible stems and leaves make positioning a lot easier.
Ideal for naturalising – they spread naturally in lawns, meadows, and woodland areas.
Supports wildlife – early blooms provide nectar for bees and other pollinators.

View all Bulbs in the Green

For more information please read our handy guide:

Bulbs in the Green Article

Planting & Care

How to Plant Wildflower Bulbs in the Green

What to Expect on Arrival - Bulbs in the green arrive with roots and foliage already developed. The leaves may appear soft or pale when they arrive - this is normal and they will recover once the bulbs are planted in the soil and the roots have established again.

Handle with Care - Unlike dry bulbs, bulbs in the green are living plants, so it is best to treat them gently during planting, especially the roots.

Prepare Your Planting Area - Select a spot with moist, well-drained soil. Clear weeds and loosen the ground before your bulbs arrive to give them the best start.

Plant Promptly - Unpack immediately and plant them out as soon as possible. Keep the bulbs cool and slightly damp if there’s any delay — do not allow the roots to dry out.

Planting Depth - Use a trowel or a bulb dibber to dig holes deep enough to accommodate the roots, make sure the bulb sits at its natural depth. Top tip! The pale part of the stem can be used as a guide for correct planting depth.

Spacing - For a natural appearance, plant the bulbs in small groups of 3–5 bulbs, leaving 10–15cm between clusters.

Watering - Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil into place. Keep the area moist for the first few weeks while the bulbs establish.

Aftercare and Multiplying - Once flowering is complete, allow the foliage to die back naturally — it helps the bulbs store energy for next year. Over time, many species will multiply and form clumps. Every few years, bulbs in the green can be lifted and divided after flowering to prevent overcrowding and to spread them to other areas of your garden.

FAQs

What are wild tulip bulbs in the green?

Bulbs freshly lifted with shoots and roots so they establish quickly when replanted. They settle faster than dry bulbs and are ideal for naturalising.

How do I plant wild tulip bulbs in the green?

Replant immediately at the same depth shown by the soil mark on the stems, around 10–15 cm deep and 8–10 cm apart. Water well after planting and keep evenly moist while they re-root.

When should I plant them?

As soon as they arrive during the lifting season, typically January to March. Prompt planting gives the best take and the strongest show the following spring.

Where will they grow best?

In well-drained soil with full sun or very light shade. They suit meadows, orchard grass, sunny banks, and the front of borders. Avoid waterlogged ground.

How many bulbs do I need?

For natural drifts allow 25–50 bulbs per square metre. For a bolder display use 75–100 bulbs per square metre.

Will they flower this year?

If lifted very early they may show, but most plantings flower the following spring as the bulbs re-establish.

Can I plant them in pots or containers?

Yes. Use a free-draining peat-free compost, plant 10–15 cm deep, keep cool and evenly moist, then sink the pot in a sheltered spot or plant out after flowering.

Are wild tulips scented?

Tulipa sylvestris often has a sweet fragrance on warm days.

Are these the wild British type?

These are Tulipa sylvestris, the long-naturalised wild tulip found in parts of Britain. Supplied to suit local planting times and conditions.

Are they suitable for pollinators?

Yes. The open, yellow blooms provide early nectar and pollen for bees and hoverflies.

What spacing and depth should I use in grass?

Plant in small groups at 8–10 cm spacing and 10–15 cm deep. Slice the turf, tuck bulbs beneath, firm back, and water.

How do I care for them after flowering?

Let foliage die back naturally to feed the bulb. Do not tie or cut leaves early. Remove spent flower heads if you do not want seed.

Can I move or divide wild tulips in the green?

Yes. Lift clumps after flowering while leaves are still green, replant with a generous root ball at the same depth, and water well.

Are they safe near lawns and meadows?

Yes. They sit happily in meadow grass and light turf, especially in sunny, well-drained places.

Any tips for a natural look?

Scatter bulbs by hand and plant where they fall, mixing with other spring woodland bulbs for a relaxed, naturalised display.

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About Us

Landlife Wildflowers grow and supply high-quality, native wildflower products, restoring wildflowers right across the UK. Working in conjunction with wildlife charity, Buglife, we’re bringing back Britain’s treasured wildflowers! Find out more about why we’ve been trusted by the general public, Natural England and The National Trust for over twenty years.