[3][4][5][6] It was first described by Eduard August von Regel in 1873 as a variety of T. sylvestris, then elevated to full species status two years later.

Each plant produces between one and twelve[9] star-shaped flowers, grouped in a raceme.

[12] It grows on stony slopes, river margins and rocky ledges between 1800 and 2500 m asl.

[13] Tulipa turkestanica is an ornamental plant often grown in rock gardens.

[16] Tulipa turkestanica has received the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.