Clusiana Cynthia Species tulip Bulbs, Deer Resistant, Perennial

Tulipa clusiana ‘Cynthia’ — the beloved Lady Tulip — is a delicate, elegant species (Division 15) tulip native to Iraq, Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and the western Himalayas. Bowl-shaped, fragrant flowers to 4 inches wide open creamy white with red-edged outer tepals and a white interior accented by a small purple-red basal blotch. Flowers open wide in full sun to a starry display; close at night and on dark days. Blooms April through late May. Miniature height of 9–12 inches. Attracts bees and butterflies. Genuinely deer and rodent resistant — one of the only true perennial tulips that returns reliably year after year, including in warmer regions without a cold period.

Plant Highlights

• Creamy white flowers with red-edged outer tepals and purple-red basal blotch; delightfully fragrant
• Opens star-like in sun; closes at night — graceful, naturalistic habit
• True deer and rodent resistant; one of the only tulips reliably perennial without lifting
• Can be grown in warmer climates without a required cold period
• Blooms April through late May; naturalizes freely over the years
• Attracts bees and butterflies

Planting Guide

Location: Mostly sunny to light shade; well-drained soil essential. Avoid waterlogged sites.

Depth & spacing: Plant 6–7 inches deep (at least 2x bulb height). Space 5–6 inches apart in beds; cluster closer in containers for best effect.

Planting time: Plant in autumn for spring bloom.

After planting: Water thoroughly to settle soil. Spring care: water lightly during dry spells (3–5 days without rain). Avoid overwatering.

Post-Bloom Care

Remove green seedpods and cut stems promptly after flowering. Do not cut foliage until leaves turn yellow/purple — this feeds the bulb for next year. Stop watering after foliage is removed to allow the bulb to rest. These tulips are among the few that genuinely return reliably as perennials when given good drainage and full sun.

Planting Specs

• Common name: Lady Tulip, Clusiana Tulip, Wildflower Tulip
• Botanical name: Tulipa clusiana ‘Cynthia’
• Division: 15 (Species / Miniature)
• Bloom: Cream white with red-edged outer tepals; purple-red basal blotch; fragrant
• Bloom time: April through late May
• Height: 9–12 inches
• Deer resistant: Yes — one of the only truly deer- and rodent-resistant tulips
• Attracts: Bees and butterflies
• Planting depth: 6–7 inches | Spacing: 5–6 inches
• Use: Beds, borders, rock gardens, containers, mass planting, naturalizing