Tulip Lilac Time

Bud Architecture and Phenology

The 'Lilac Time' tulip is a quintessential representative of the lily-flowered group. Its technical distinction lies in the structure of the perianth: narrow, pointed, and slightly recurved petals create a recognizable 'goblet' silhouette that resembles a lily when fully opened in sunlight. This geometry provides high resistance to mechanical damage and wind stress, as the wind-exposed surface area of the bud is minimized.

Agrotechnical Parameters

• Vegetation Cycle: As a late-flowering cultivar, its peak bloom occurs in the second half of May. This makes it a strategic asset for extending sales seasons or maintaining garden aesthetics after early-flowering varieties have faded.
• Stem Morphology: The plant reaches medium heights (approximately 50–60 cm), providing an optimal balance between peduncle rigidity and visual aesthetics. The stem is sufficiently stiff and resistant to lodging, even during heavy precipitation.
• Color Stability: The pure lilac hue is achieved through stable anthocyanin expression in the epidermal cells. The pigmentation is highly resistant to fading under direct sunlight, which is critical for maintaining commercial appeal in open-air displays.

Cultivation and Application

This variety exhibits high adaptability to standard forcing protocols and open-field cultivation. Due to its late flowering phase, 'Lilac Time' requires precise temperature management during bulb storage to prevent premature floral bud initiation. The root system is characterized by vigorous development, allowing the plant to efficiently uptake moisture and micronutrients from medium-textured soils. In professional landscaping, the cultivar is prized for its structural integrity: the petals retain their characteristic curvature even under fluctuating humidity levels.