Siam Tulip

These exotic looking plants (Curcuma siam) are surprisingly easy to look after and will reward you with a flush of cheerful flowers for several weeks in a cool room. They are not true ‘tulips’ but are a relative of turmeric with striking long lasting flowers stems.

Siam tulips are native to Thailand so like warm relatively humid conditions so are best grown as a houseplant in the UK. Choose a bright warm spot away from any radiators. They do also like some humidity and often do best in kitchens or bathrooms where the air is damper. If this is not possible you can always give the foliage a light mist every week or so.

How often you need to water will depend on the room conditions. Typically about half a teacup a week, but make your own judgement, by feeling the weight of the pot. Try feeling the weight when dry and when well-watered and then try and keep it half-way in between. Water from the top and let the excess drain out through the lightweight compost. Their roots should never be allowed to stand in water – if they can’t breathe, the plant will die.

Problem Solving:

The most common problem with these plants is overwatering, so keep them quite dry and never allow the roots to sit in water. Once your Siam tulip has finally finished blooming cut the flower stems right back and find a nice out of the way spot with an even temperature for them to rest over winter. You can repot in the spring in a nice free draining compost and they should reflower again next summer.

Hot tip – try putting a damp rag or sponge underneath the pot and within the pot holder. This keeps the roots moist while letting them breathe.