Tulips Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas October, 2004 by Dr. William C. Welch, Landscape Horticulturist, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX Tulips at the home of Dr. Bill Welch The association of the popular tulip with Holland has led many to believe that it is native to that country; however, the tulip was brought from Constantinople in the mid to late 1500s. The name "tulip" is derived from the Persian word "turban," which the inverted flower resembles. The tulip is a member of the lily family, and is represented by approximately 100 species, although few are found outside botanical gardens. At one time, the tulip was considered completely unadaptable to Deep South gardens, but research has proven that with proper treatment and variety selection, tulips may be just as spectacular in Texas as they are in more northern areas. To achieve long, graceful stems and successful blooms, the colorful tulip demands a pre-chilling of the bulbs in the vegetable bin of your refrigerator for 45 to 60 days prior to planting.

Be certain that the bulbs remain dry to avoid mold or rot; wrap them in paper towels, and put them in paper bags or plastic to help assure dryness. Plant the bulbs immediately upon removal from cold storage in December or early January. There are many tulip types which provide the gardener with a wide variety of types of bloom, times of bloom, sizes, and colors. The following are some recommended types and varieties for Texas gardens. This list is not meant to be all-inclusive, as most varieties of tulips will perform if handled properly. Darwin Tulips The Darwin is an ideal all-purpose tulip, and is by far the best for general garden use and beauty. Darwins appear on long, graceful stems, and usually reach peak bloom in late March and early April. Some recommended Darwin varieties include 'Aristocrat' (soft rose), 'Paul Richter' (bright red), 'Golden Age' (golden yellow), 'Red Master' (deep crimson), 'The Bishop' (deep violet), and 'Zwanenburg' (pure white). Darwin Hybrids These are improved, larger-flowering Darwin types. Darwin hybrids usually bloom several weeks earlier than the regular Darwin types.

Outstanding varieties include 'General Eisenhower' (large, scarlet red), 'Apeldoorn' (warm orange-red), 'Roosevelt' (orange-red), and 'Diplomat' (vermilion red). 'Jewel of Spring' is yellow, marked with red, and 'Elizabeth Arden' is deep salmon-pink. Cottage Tulips This variety has many colors and flower forms, and blooms later than Darwin types. The blooms are usually large and egg-shaped. Outstanding varieties include 'Halcro' (carmine-red), 'John T. Scheepers' (soft yellow), 'Renown' (red), 'Smiling Queen' (light pink), and 'White City'. Parrot Tulips Parrot tulips have fringed and scalloped edges. There are numerous varieties of parrot tulips; however, many have weak stems and do not flower properly. Because of their large, heavy blooms, wind and rain can damage parrot tulips.

Some varieties include 'Red Parrot' (deep scarlet), 'Blue Parrot' (bluish with gray sheen), 'Texas Gold' (golden yellow), 'Orange Favorite' (bright orange), and 'Fantasy' (soft rose with apple-green stripes). Peony or Double Tulips These tulips of many petals bloom late in the spring season. Good varieties include 'Eros' (rose-pink), 'May Wonder' (clear pink), and 'Orange Triumph' (soft orange). Other Tulip Types These include lily-flowered tulips, Breeder tulips, Rembrandt or broken tulips, Fosteriana tulips, and Duc van Thol tulips. Regardless of tulip choice, locate the planting in full sun or partial shade in well-drained soil and on a raised bed. Planting the bulbs beneath a deciduous tree will provide adequate sun before foliage appears in spring. Tulips make a more effective display when planted in masses of one variety and color. However, a number of varieties will assure a longer season of bloom and show of color. For vivid garden displays, mix tulips with other spring bulbs, perennials, spring-flowering shrubs, and annuals.

Tulip Classes | Horticulture and Home Pest News This article was published originally on 9/4/1998 Byline: by Richard Jauron, Department of Horticulture While tulips are favorites of mid-west gardeners, we often fail to appreciate the diversity of these spring-flowering bulbs. Tulips vary tremendously in flower and plant size, bloom period, shape, and color. By planting early, mid-season, and late blooming varieties, tulips may be enjoyed for several weeks in the spring. The following tulip classifications are based on time of bloom and form. Early flowering Single Early Tulips are among the earliest tulips to bloom. The flowers, available in a wide range of colors, are produced on strong, 10- to 18-inch-long stems. The flowers of several varieties have a sweet fragrance. Single early tulips are excellent for rock gardens, beds, and forcing. Double Early Tulips produce semi-double to double, peony-like flowers. The flowers, measuring up to 4 inches in diameter, are borne on strong, short stems. The color range of double early tulips is smaller than for most other tulip classes.

Greigii Tulips are noted for their brightly-colored flowers and purple striped or mottled foliage. Plant height varies from 8 to 12 inches. Because of their short stature, Greigii tulips are excellent choices for borders or rock gardens. They also perennialize well. Kaufmanniana Tulips are long-lived perennial tulips. In sunlight, the flowers open fully. The open flowers resemble a star or waterlily. Flower colors include white, yellow, pink, and intermediary colors. The foliage is bluish green or chocolate brown striped. Kaufmanniana tulips are small plants. Average plant height is 4 to 8 inches. Their compact size makes them good choices for border edges and rock gardens. Fosteriana Tulips produce some of the largest flowers of the genus. They also perennialize well. 'Red Emperor' is a widely grown variety in this class. Fosteriana tulips are sometimes referred to as emperor tulips. Species Tulips include wild species, horticultural varieties, and hybrids. Most are early blooming, short-statured plants. Species tulips are available in a wide array of colors. They perennialize well and are excellent plants for rock and heirloom gardens.

Mid-season flowering Darwin Hybrid Tulips are highly prized for their large, brilliant flowers. Flowers are available in shades of red, pink, orange, and yellow. Blooms are borne on strong stems which are up to 30 inches tall. Darwin hybrid tulips often bloom well for several years, making them one of the better perennial tulips. Triumph Tulips produce cup-shaped flowers on strong, medium-length stems. Average plant height is 10 to 16 inches. This is the largest class of tulips and offers the widest range of flower colors. Triumph tulips are excellent for forcing. Parrot Tulips have deeply feathered, curled, or twisted petals. Flowers may be single or multi-colored. Many varieties have a green spot at the base of their petals. Parrot tulips are sensitive to poor weather and should be planted in a protected spot. Late season flowering Single Late Tulips incorporates the former Darwin, cottage, and breeder tulips. Along with the Darwin hybrid tulips, they are the some of the tallest tulips. Flowers are borne on stems up to 30 inches tall. Flowers are available in a wide range of colors.

Double Late Tulips are often referred to as peony-flowered tulips. The many-petaled flowers are borne on 12 to 20 inch stems. Plant double late tulips in protected locations as the large flowers can be damaged by rain and strong winds. Viridiflora Tulips produce long-lasting flowers which have prominent green markings on their petals. The unusual flower characteristics make it a novelty item in the garden. Lily-flowering Tulips have long pointed petals which arch outward, the flowers somewhat resembling a lily. Flower colors include white, pink, red, yellow, and purple. Several varieties have petals edged or feathered in contrasting colors. Plants grow to a height of 20 to 30 inches. Fringed Tulips have flowers with elegant fringed petals. Many varieties are mutants of single late tulips. Also known as "crispa tulips." Rembrandt Tulips produce striped or "broken" blooms. The white, yellow, or red petals are striped with red, bronze, or purple. These types were bought for huge sums during the "tulip mania" in Holland in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. The unusual markings were actually caused by a virus.

Due to the virus, the original Rembrandt tulips are no longer sold. However, there several modern, virus-free Rembrandt tulips available. Multiflowering Tulips produce 3 to 7 blooms per stem. The main stem of multiflowering tulips branches into secondary stems. Each secondary stem produces a flower. The flower on the main stem is slightly larger than those on the secondary stems. Many of the multiflowering cultivars belong to the single late tulip class. These tulips are 14- to 20-inch-tall plants which bloom late in the season. Several varieties are multiflowering Greigii tulips which are 8 to 12 inches tall and early blooming. Unless otherwise indicated above, most tulips bloom well for only 1 or 2 years. Fosteriana and Darwin hybrid tulips should bloom for 2, 3, or 4 years. Greigii, Kaufmanniana, and species tulips are the longest-lived tulips and should continue to bloom for several years. When browsing the garden centers this fall, don't forget to purchase some tulip bulbs. Your only problem may be selecting varieties from the wide array of tulips.

This article originally appeared in the September 4, 1998 issue, pp. 118-119. Year of Publication: TULIP TYPES TULIP TYPES Tulips are categorized into many groups by bulb growers and botanical authorities. Below are some of of the more common terms seen in descriptions of varieties. The bloom time in the FLOWERS colum indicates when the category flowers in a Spring season. Depending on the planting hardiness zone, 'early' may occur in January in warmer zones, in April in colder zones. Stem heights are given in inches, with the ranges indicating: Short: 3-8 inches Medium: 8-18 inches Tall: 18+ inches Representative varieties are shown for EXAMPLE. Some of the earlier blooming types are generally grouped together as 'species' or wild tulips. TYPE TULIPS FOR BEDDING TULIPS FOR BEDDING Posted on May 12, 2011 by Rupert Foxton-Smythe • 0 Comments SINGLE EARLY TULIPS Growing to a height of less than 12 in.

this section is especially useful for bedding, though it must be said that as most varieties are suitable for forcing they are far more frequently used for this purpose than for outside flowering. They have little value as cut flowers for the blooms lack substance and are too short in the stem and it is a fact, though surprisingly so, that the double early tulips, flowering at the same time outdoors from late April onwards are generally preferred for bedding schemes. For pot culture for early new year flowering, the single early varieties are on their own – but for bedding, planted 4 in. apart, they should not be as neglected as they are at present. The doubles will bloom at the same time and though possessing more substance they are no more brilliant and have not the daintiness of some of the early singles. For a display of great brilliance, try a small bed of the primrose yellow Madame Gevers, growing amidst a cover of Primula Wanda or the richer crimson-coloured Rubin. Both the tulips and the primroses will be in bloom from mid-April and remain a mass of colour until mid-May, when the Darwin and Cottage tulips come into bloom.

The pure white variety, Pelican, may be used, also with a crimson or blue primrose. Primula Blue Horizon, or the darker blue-flowered Buckland Belle, are most attractive. Or use primrose Snow Cushion, with tulip Crown Imperial, which is crimson-red, edged yellow and possesses the perfume of clove pinks, one of the few tulips to carry fragrance. The primroses should be planted io in. apart with a tulip between each clump. They may be taken up at the end of May along with the tulips and replanted into a shaded border, but do not divide them too much – they look so lovely when a cushioned mass of bloom. As they come into bloom first, the early tulips should be planted in October. Some lovely varieties apart from those already mentioned are: Golden Mascot (4 in.). Pure golden yellow. Ibis (3 in.). Peach pink, shaded carmine. Keizerskroon (4 in.). Striking red and yellow striped, slightly taller growing and later flowering. Prince Carnival (4 in.). Yellow, flushed red. Prince of Austria (3 in.). Pure orange and possessing a sweet perfume. Van der Neer (3 in.).

Dwarf-growing and bearing a bloom of deep purple. White Hawk (4 in.). Purest white. These are all bedding varieties and not very suitable for forcing, with the exception of Prince of Austria, though they may be cool grown in pots and will bloom from the end of March. DOUBLE EARLY TULIPS This is perhaps the most valuable of the numerous section. They all force well and will follow on the earliest flowering varieties of the early single section – they may be cool-grown in pots when they will give a colourful display and they may also be used for the cut-flower trade as they grow to a height of about 14 in. Outside they remain long in bloom and are an ideal bedding plant. In this way they look most attractive when planted with the April-flowering mossy saxifrages, whose daintiness acts as a contrast to the fullness of the tulip bloom. Or try the early April-flowering double daisies, especially those three dainty flowering varieties, the brilliant scarlet Rob Roy, the salmon pink Dresden China, and their white counterpart. The bulbs should be planted about 6-8 in. apart, slightly further apart than the single varieties.

They may also be grown under frames for cutting throughout April and even earlier in favourable districts, and even without a greenhouse a display may be enjoyed almost uninterrupted from the late February flowering of the Kaufmanniana species, to the completion of the late flowering Parrot Tulip, Fantasy, which is the last of all the tulips to remain in bloom in my garden. Some brilliantly coloured varieties, all of which should be planted 3 in. deep are: Bonanza. Deep carmine-pink, edged yellow. Taller growing than most doubles. Boule de Neige. Very dwarf and bearing a large bloom of purest white. Dante. A new variety of intense fiery scarlet. Electra. A glorious shade of dark cherry red. Mr. Van der Hoeff. Probably the best pure yellow. Murillo. White, tinted rose and possessing a sweet perfume. Peach Blossom. Rich rose pink. Tea Rose . Soft yellow, flushed pink and salmon. Though an older variety, still one of my favourites. Kordes. A new introduction, the colour being intense yellow, flushed orange-red. Willemsoord. Another variety of recent introduction, a grand bedder, bearing bloom of a rich crimson shade.

DOUBLE LATE TULIPS Coming into bloom towards the middle of May and flowering on stems zo in. tall, this is a section that should be more widely used, for the bloom is valuable for cutting whilst the flowering period will bridge any gap between the early flowering varieties and the later May flowering Darwin and Cottage tulips. They do not force well except the variety Clara Carder, which is more dwarf-growing and bears a bloom of an attractive shade of Tyrian purple. This is a useful tulip for following on the early flowering doubles under glass. Those recommended for bedding are: Coxa. Scarlet, tipped white and fairly dwarf. Nissa. Rich yellow, shaded crimson. Symphonea. Delicate shell pink. The double form of Pride of Haarlem. Uncle Tom. Deep mahogany red. TRIUMPH TULIPS This is a section of more recent introduction and especially valuable for their ability to withstand adverse weather conditions, when they come into bloom, during the last days of April. The blooms are brilliantly coloured and borne on strong, thick stems 16-18 in. tall. This is also a valuable section for bridging any gap between the early flowering doubles and singles and the later May-flowering varieties.

They are particularly attractive when planted with the miniature polyanthus, Lady Greer and Fair Maid, which come into bloom at the same time. The dainty yellow Lady Greer looks particularly delightful with the soft mauve Algiba – and the mahogany red polyanthus Fair Maid makes a pleasing contrast with the pure white tulip Kansas. The Triumph tulips are especially useful for the exposed garden even as a substitute for the taller Darwins – or the Darwins may be planted in a position where they will be partially sheltered from strong May winds, the Triumphs being used for a more open situation. Of the varieties most suited to bedding other than those already mentioned, the following are selected for their sturdy habit, with planting depths: Denbola (3 in.). Striking combination of deep crimson, edged cream. A new variety. Hindenburg (4 in.). Recent introduction, the large blooms being of garnet red, edged yellow. Korneforus (4 in.). A lovely variety of bright cherry red. Princess Beatrix (3 in.). Vivid scarlet, edged orange. Winter Gold (3 in.). A wonderful shade of deep lemon yellow. Zimmerman (5 in.). Shell pink, flushed silver.

Possibly the best April tulip for growing in frames or under cloches, but it does not like forcing conditions. PARROT TULIPS Being a distinct break from the Darwin range from which most are a ‘sport’, with their unusual fringed petals and vivid striped and blotched markings, the Parrots should be more widely grown. The blooms are large, possibly rather too large for some people and whilst most attractive as cut bloom, they are at their best planted in beds of separate varieties. Or to be more original, try a hundred bulbs in say ten varieties, planted at random for a real harlequin display. Flowering longer than any tulips, right into June, the Parrots will provide a display of the utmost fascination, especially striking are they when planted against a background of cupressus trees or to the front of a sheltered border. One or two varieties grow rather too tall, the lilac -rose Discovery is one, growing to a height of about 30 in. and the large blooms tending to fall over when besieged by wind and rain.

None are lovelier than the first of all the Parrots, the salmon pink splashed with green variety, Fantasy, a ‘sport’ from the old favourite Clara Butt, also the vivid Orange Favourite, which carries a rich perfume. Others, all of which may be planted 4 in. deep, are: Blue Parrot. Vivid purple with the petal edges particularly broken and fringed. Fire Bird. A vivid scarlet ‘sport’ from Fantasy. Red Champion. Rosy red, a variety which forces well. Sunshine. A golden yellow of great beauty only 18 in. tall – is a grand bedding variety. MENDEL TULIPS The result of a cross between the very earliest flowering singles and the Darwins, their flowering period does indeed fall between the two, opening their bloom in the open at the end of April, while several varieties may be forced indoors as early as the Early Flowering Singles. Early Queen and King of the Reds may be taken indoors the first week of December, followed by Orange Wonder and Mrs. E. H. Krelage, about the last day of the year, with Mozart and Scarlet Admiral, towards the end of January.

Other varieties can be brought on in pots in the home or cold greenhouse and will bloom during March and early April until the outdoor plantings are showing colour late in the month. From the twenty-five varieties I know, some of the loveliest are: Her Grace. The brightest possible scarlet. Imperator. Old rose. Orange Wonder. Rich orange, shading to a lighter edge. Pink Picture. Ivory-white delicately margined with rose pink. Piquante. A striking new variety of crimson-red with a gold margin. White Sail. Rich cream shading off to full white. BREEDER TULIPS For those who like the more sedate colours, the bronze, coffee, port wine and Burgundy shades, this section will satisfy their taste. Tallest growing of all tulips the Breeder’s are best planted in beds against a wall or a wattle hurdle fence. They look superb in small beds against the house and never more charming than when mixed with Darwins of a colour that will tone with each other. For instance, the real brown-coloured Dom Pedro, which also possesses a noticeable fragrance, combines most attractively with the rich yellow Darwin tulip, Golden Age, and both grow to a height of 2 ft.

Or try the orange and brown shaded Dillenburg, with the vermilion-coloured Darwin, City of Haarlem. Other Breeder tulips of unusual colouring are: Cherbourg. Rich golden bronze, flushed purple. J. J. Bowman. Crushed tomato red, edged gold. Panorama. Produces a large crimson-red flower on only stems and is ideal for an exposed position. Tantalus. Dullest yellow, flushed bronze and lilac . The Breeders will not force well, but may be grown in a cold-house frame or under cloches for cutting. Plant 3-4 in. deep. REMBRANDT TULIPS A small section flowering during May and June on 1-ft. Stems. The bloom is striped with contrasting colours. They will bloom well under conditions of fairly gentle forcing and will come into bloom in early March indoors. A recent introduction of charm is Cordell Hull of a rich red colour, feathered and striped white. DARWIN TULIPS This is indeed the largest and most important section covering many dozens of varieties, many being forced in vast quantities to supply the early spring market, others being planted in beds by the millions, both for outdoor cutting and display.

They will in this way give a succession of bloom from early March until the end of June. Those grown under frames or cloches in favourable districts should be covered early in February and will be in bloom from mid-March. The amateur who has no greenhouse and who wishes to enjoy some bloom in the home, should plant against a wall or hurdle fence in a position of full sun, and late in February should rear a frame or Dutch light over the bulbs as soon as showing above the soil. Draught can be excluded from the ends by draping a sack and holding it into position by a large stone which will prevent it from flapping about. By this simple method bloom will be ready for cutting from mid-April and the lights can then be used for hardening plants from early May. There are many lovely colour schemes to be enjoyed with both Darwin and Cottage tulips. Vivid red or orange tulips growing from a bed of Primrose Dame wallflowers – or mauve tulips mixed with a bed of Ivory White wallflowers. Select a wallflower which does not grow too tall, 13 in. is ideal, so that the blooms of the tulips will be held clearly above the wallflowers.

A striking effect is the combination of the vivid red Scarlet Emperor wallflower, with the huge pure white tulip, Glacier – or a red tulip with a white wallflower. In the north, the winter weather frequently takes its toll of wallflowers and those that do survive cannot be counted on to give an attractive display. As a substitute, I would suggest planting either the shell pink or white arabis, which can be planted with the tulips in October and removed when the bulbs are lifted in June. The pink arabis looks particularly charming with the new deep violet-blue tulip, Demeter. Or try planting the Early Summer flowering tulips with a bed of violas or pansies, not the mixed coloured varieties, but those rich self-colours like Coronation Gold and the rich sky-blue Ullswater. The navy blue Emperor William also makes a most attractive colour scheme, planted beneath the rich red Farncombe Sanders tulip, or used with the primrose yellow Cottage variety, Mother’s Day. When finished flowering, the bulbs may be lifted and trenched to die back while the pansies can be left to be interplanted with summer bedding plants.

My own particular favourite flower for carpeting is Myosotis, the forget-me-nots of our woodlands, which few realize can be obtained in a wide range of lovely shades and which will flower over a long period. For planting with the Mendel tulips, the large flowered and early myosotis, Empress, is lovely, and the deep indigo, Royal Blue, comes in a little later. Another lovely forget-me-not is Messidor, with its flowers of richest blue, while two for very late flowering are Blue Ball and Indigo Blue, both of very compact habit. Some of the loveliest tulips in this section with planting depths and correct month are: Allard Pierson (4 in. October). Rich crimson-maroon. Aristocrat (3 in. October). A lovely new Darwin of deep rose pink, silver at the edges. City of Haarlem (3 in. November). Vivid vermilion with an attractive black base. Clara Butt (4 in. November). Salmon rose and grown by the million for cold-frame culture, outdoor cutting and for bedding. Demeter (3 in. November). New, of a rich violet shade. Golden Age (4 in. November).

A superb yellow, the blooms carried on sturdy stems. Ideal for cloche work. King George V (4 in. November). Large, tall-growing, cherry red, the best of its colour. Mrs. Grullemans (3 in. October). Rich creamy white, the bloom being of beautiful form. Niphetos (3 in. November). A superb variety, the bloom being the colour of Jersey cream, flushed deeper yellow. Rev. H. Ewbank (4 in. November). A grand rich mauve variety for outdoor bedding. Sultan (3 in. October). Of darkest maroon, almost black. Most attractive when planted with a white or cream variety. Victoire D’Oliviera (4 in. November). Magnificent deep crimson. William Copeland (3 in. November). Pure lavender, the earliest forcing Darwin. Yellow Giant (4 in. November). Bright buttercup yellow. COTTAGE TULIPS Also known as single late- or May-flowering tulips. They are similar to the Darwins in every way and a number of varieties will readily force. Several varieties have an oblong-shaped bloom, others with almost pointed petals, while a few are lily-flowered.

Art shades and particularly yellows predominate and look delightful when two or three varieties are planted round a raised bed, those with a dwarf habit growing to the centre. One of the most delightful displays I ever saw was of a circular bed of Cottage tulips in which half a dozen varieties were used. In the centre was the very late-flowering Caledonia, which bears a vivid scarlet flower on I 8-in. stems. Next came Orange King, and then the attractively coloured Princess Margaret, with its rich yellow blooms, edged and shaded orange. The gorgeous pale yellow, Mother’s Day, was next, then the orange red Dido, and finally the deep buttercup Yellow Emperor. If one is looking for a yellow tulip to plant with the scarlet or violet-coloured Darwins, a large selection will be found in this section ranging from the creamy yellow Ellen Willmott to the deep golden yellow of Mrs. Moon. Others with their correct planting depths and time are: Argo (3 in. November). Golden yellow, splashed red. Belle Jaune (4 in. October). Clear primrose, with a long bloom. Golden Harvest (3 in. October). Lemon-yellow, the bloom being of largest proportions.

Inglescombe Yellow (4 in. October). The latest yellow. Mrs. John T. Scheepers (4 in. November). Bright golden yellow. Vlammenspel (3 in. October). Rich yellow, shaded red. Wall Street (3 in. November). Soft primrose yellow, good for frame culture. TULIP SPECIES While the sections previously described are grown and known by thousands, few tulip lovers know more than one of the many delightful and most useful species. Since the war several of the species Kaufmanniana, the water-lily tulip, have become better known and rightly so, for they come into bloom towards the end of February and are charming planted in a rockery where they will increase in the same way as muscari and miniature daffodils. But how many gardeners know the tiny copper-coloured T. Hageri from Greece, easy to grow and quite inexpensive – or T. Sperengeri from Turkey, the latest of all tulips, producing its scarlet flowers on 2-in, stems right into July if planted in a partially sheltered position?

For lovers of a rock garden, or those who possess an alpine house, here is a selection that will provide the greatest joy for the first six months of the year. Tulipa acuminata. The old horned tulip, yellow, striped scarlet, the blooms having strange long red tips on the petals. Rather taller growing than most of the species. T. Australis. Produces its yellow, flushed red star-shaped blooms on 6-in. stems. When in the bud stage they nod in the wind like a snowdrop . At their best throughout April. T. chtysantha. A most inexpensive variety flowering during May, bearing its long-shaped yellow blooms, striped red on the outside, on 9-in. stems. T. Clusiana. The Lady Slipper tulip named in honour of our old friend Dr. Clusius, the great tulip breeder of the early seventeenth century. The petals are thin, the blooms long and pointed – creamy white with cherry-coloured markings. T. Eichleri. A magnificent species for a rockery as this is the most brilliant of all tulips.

The large vermilion blooms have a silver stripe down the outer petals and when opened, a black centre zone surrounded by a golden band. In bloom early in April. T. Fosteriana prineeps. Dazzling crimson, the flowers carried on 8-in, stems and coming into bloom late in March. T. Hageri. A tiny species bearing a number of tiny copper red blooms on 6-in. stems. T. Kaufmanniana. This is the water-lily tulip from Turkestan, coming into bloom in February and opening into huge lemon and pink bloom, very similar in appearance to a water-lily. T. linifolia. A wonderful April-flowering variety, the small scarlet blooms are carried on 6-in, stems which are also scarlet, giving a most striking effect. T. Marjoletti. The blooms are primrose yellow, flushed red on the outsides and borne on r 8-in. stems. Lasts well in water when cut. T. praestand Fusilier. One of the most valuable alpine tulips of very dwarf habit, the flaming orange blooms are borne four or five to a stem between attractive grey leaves .

Comes into bloom late in March. T. Saxatilic. Must have a dry, warm position and a soil containing plenty of grit and sand. The bulbs should be planted deeply. The delightful silvery lavender blooms are produced throughout May. Its glossy green foliage also adds to its charm. T. sylvestris. This is the true wild tulip of Europe which seeds itself and should be left undisturbed. Lovely when planted in short grass where the fragrant yellow star-like blooms nod in the April breezes. Or plant under a window, where its perfume can be enjoyed. T. Tarda. A lovely species for the early spring rockery, producing numerous snow-white star-shaped blooms on 6-in. stems. T. Turkestanica. A particular favourite of mine, the numerous creamy white blooms carried on only 5-in. stems, remaining in bloom throughout spring. The flowers are enhanced by the rich brown stamens. T. Wilsoniana. The deep crimson blooms have an attractive rich blue base borne throughout May on sturdy 5-in. stems.

Related Posts Tulipa (group) - Plant Finder Plant Finder Tried and Trouble-free Recommended by 7 Professionals Common Name: tulip Height: 0.75 to 2.00 feet Spread: 0.50 to 0.75 feet Bloom Time: April to May Bloom Description: All colors but true blue Sun: Full sun Garden locations Culture Grow in organically rich, fertile, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun. Best with cool, moist winters and warm dry summers. Plant bulbs 4-6” deep (three times the depth of the bulb) in fall. In heavy clay soils, a slightly shallower depth is best. Space bulbs 2-5” apart depending on plant size. Tulips may be grown as perennials or as annuals. Species tulips often perform better than hybrid plants as perennials. When growing tulips as perennials, promptly remove spent flower stems after bloom (prevents seeding), but do not remove foliage until it yellows. In most cases, tulip performance declines substantially starting with the second year. Many growers prefer growing tulips, particularly hybrids, as annuals.

Noteworthy Characteristics Tulips are popular spring flowers that come in nearly all colors except true blue. Shape is often a cup with a teardrop form. Bowl, goblet and star shapes also exist. Some flowers are double. Each flower has six petal-like tepals. Tepals may be fringed or ruffled. Basal leaves are blue/gray-green in color with a broad oval shape, but some varieties have strap-shaped or long narrow leaves. Tulips are generally organized into 15 divisions based upon flower shape and origin. Bloom time varies. Single Early Group (Division 1). Single, cup-shaped, early to mid-spring tulips on stems to 10-14” tall. Double Early Group (Division 2). Double, peonylike, mid-spring tulips on stems to 12-16” tall. Triumph Group (Division 3). Single, cup-shaped, mid to late-spring tulips on stems to 16-24” tall. Crosses between single early, Darwin and cottage types. Darwin Hybrid Group (Division 4). Large mid to late spring tulips on stems to 20-28” tall.

Some have contrasting eyes or penciling. Single Late Group (Division 5). Single, cup/goblet-shaped, late spring (May) tulips on stems to 18-30” tall. Includes Darwin and cottage tulips. Some cultivars have more than one bloom per stem. Lily-flowered Group (Division 6). Single, lilylike, goblet-shaped, mid to late spring tulips with pointed reflexed tepals on stems to 18-26” tall. Fringed Group (Division 7). Single, cup-shaped, mid to late spring tulips with fringed tepals on stems to 14-26” tall. Fringe may be in a different color. Viridiflora Group (Division 8). Single, cup/rounded/bowl shaped, late spring flowers (May flowers) streaked with green on stems to 15-20” tall. Rembrandt Group (Division 9). Single cup-shaped tulips striped with various colors. True Rembrandt Tulips are no longer sold in commerce because the striping is caused by a virus. Parrot Group (Division 10).

Single, cup-shaped, late spring tulips with fringed and ruffled tepals on stems to 14-26” tall. Blooms are feathered and striped in a variety of colors. Double Late Group (Division 11). Double, peony-like, bowl shaped, late spring tulips on stems to 14-24” tall. Kaufmanniana Group (Division 12). Single or in clusters of 2-5, cup/bowl shaped, early to mid-spring tulips on stems to 6-12” tall. Commonly called waterlily tulips because the small flowers resemble waterlilies. Fosteriana Group (Division 13). Single, large, bowl-shaped, mid-spring tulips on stems to 8-20” tall. Blooms are sometimes margined or flamed with different colors and have contrasting bases. Greigii Group (Division 14). Single, bowl-shaped, early to mid spring tulips on stems to 6-12” tall. Some blooms feature several different colors and contrasting bases. Variegated leaves are mottled and streaked with purple. Miscellaneous Group (Division 15).

All species tulips plus hybrids not included in other groups. Problems No serious insect or disease problems. Bulb and root rots may occur, particularly in wet, poorly drained soils. Gray mold. Mosaic virus may also occur. Animal pests include aphids, slugs and snails. Mice and voles are attracted to the bulbs. Squirrels may dig up newly planted bulbs. Garden Uses Tulips come in a wide variety of colors, sizes and flower types. In general, they are best planted in large groups or massed. Tulip, Darwin hybrids Tulip, Darwin hybrids Tulipa Among the tallest of all tulips, Darwin Hybrids offer big, showy flowers that stand out in spring gardens. Blooms can reach 6 inches in diameter when fully open! They bloom in almost every color, including bicolors with striping, speckling, and edging. Their long stems make them great cut flowers, but that also means they need to be protected from wind so strong breezes don't snap the flowers off the stems. Pictured above: Ad Rem tulip Oops, we're sorry. Something went wrong. Please try again later. Oops, we're sorry. Something went wrong.

Please try again later. Share your take on this idea! Upload your photo here. how to grow Tulip, Darwin hybrids Propagation Tulip, double hybrids Double-flowered tulips stand out because their blooms are packed with petals. Some have so many petals that they are referred to as peony-flowered tulips for their resemblance to those flowers. Bloom time depends on type; some bloom in early spring and others bloom late. Regardless of when they show off their flowers, the blossoms last a long time because the flowers have so much substance.Double tulips' large, heavy blooms can be a drawback: Rains and strong winds easily damage the flowers, so plant them in a protected location. Or grow double tulips in containers that you can easily protect during storms. Staking the 10- to 16-inch-tall stems may also be necessary.Pictured above: Uncle Tom tulip Tulip, single early hybrids Single early tulips are available in nearly every color of the rainbow, including white, red, orange, yellow, and purple. Pastel colors of pink, peach, apricot, and cream are also available.

Generally, the flowers are borne on short, strong stems, which means they can tolerate wind and rain better than some types of tulips. Those with the shortest stems may not work well as cut flowers, but those in the taller range make fine bouquets. Some varieties are fragrant, too.Use single early tulips in flowerbeds, borders, container gardens, rock gardens, or for indoor forcing. Because they bloom early, they generally need less chilling to force them into bloom than later-blooming types.Shown above: Purple Prince tulip Tulip, viridiflora hybrids Viridiflora tulips all have green streaks on their petals. In fact, the name comes from the Latin words for green and flower. However, green is far from the only color on their blooms. They are available in shades of yellow, white, pink, red, orange, purple, or dual tones.Flowering time of viridiflora tulips is variable, but most are late-season bloomers, and the flowers are long-lasting.

Stem heights range from 16 to 24 inches tall.Pictured above: Flaming Springgreen tulip Tulip, waterlily hybrids Waterlily tulips are early-spring bloomers that get their common name from their resemblance to the blooms of waterlilies when their flowers are fully open. Also listed as Kaufmanniana tulips, the stems are quite short and sturdy, reaching only 4-10 inches tall. This characteristic makes them ideal for exposed sites or container gardens.The foliage of waterlily tulips is either blue-green or mottled with deep maroon or brownish stripes. Plants perennialize well.Shown above: Heart's Delight tulip Tulip, single late hybrids Single late tulips are also sometimes called May flowering tulips because in most regions they bloom in May after all other types of tulips have finished. These tall tulips grow up to 30 inches tall, making them excellent as cut flowers.

They come in a wide range of colors, including red, yellow, orange, pink, purple, black, and white as well as bicolors and blends.Pictured above: Dreamland tulip Tulip, parrot hybrids Parrot tulips are flamboyant with their curly, twisted, and fringed petals that resemble the colorful feathers of the tropical bird of the same name. However, their beak-shape buds are what earned them their moniker. Nearly all varieties of parrot tulip are vibrantly colored, and many are two-toned.Parrot tulips bloom mid- to late season on stems ranging from 12 to 28 inches tall. Their huge blooms do not stand up well in windstorms or rain, so plant them in a sheltered location.Pictured above: Flaming Parrot Tulip, lily-flowering hybrids Lily-flowered tulips are named for the shape of their blooms, which resemble old species tulips from Turkey. Their long, pointed petals arch outward and, when fully open, look like a six-point star. They come in a wide array of colors including purple, pink, white, orange, red, yellow, peach, and combinations of these shades.

Most varieties bloom late in the spring season.Stems of lily-flowered tulips grow 1-2 feet tall. They are not as sturdy as some other tulip types, so plant them in a location protected from strong winds.Pictured above: Ballade tulip Tulip, greigii hybrids Greigii tulips are also known as Greig's tulips and Turkestan tulips, a reference to the geographic origin of the species from which these hybrids derive. They are shorter than most tulips, averaging about 10 inches tall. Flowers appear in midspring. Most varieties are bright shades of red, yellow, pink, white, or bicolor combinations of these hues. The foliage tends to be mottled in purple, creating additional texture in the garden.Because greigii tulips are short, they're perfect for the front of the border, rock gardens, or container plantings. They naturalize well.Pictured above: Rob Verlinden tulip Tulip, fringed hybrids Fringed tulips got their name from the distinct frayed edge on their petals. This fringe may be the same color as the rest of the petal or it may contrast.

The fringe makes the flowers appear full of substance.The frayed edging comes from mutations in tulips of various categories, so the blooming time and heights vary. Most bloom in mid to late season and can reach 30 inches tall. Flower colors come in the same range as other tulips -- red, orange, yellow, pink, purple, and black.Pictured above: Hamilton tulip Tulip, fosteriana hybrids Fosteriana tulips bloom early in the spring with large cup-shape flowers. The large bloom size has earned them the alternate name of Emperor tulips. The flowers may be red, orange, yellow, pink, or white, and some varieties are fragrant. Foliage may be glossy green or gray-green. Some are mottled or striped with maroon.Use Fosteriana tulips in mass plantings, beds and borders, or containers. They naturalize well.Pictured above: Orange Emporer tulip Tulip, species If you want long-lived tulips, pick the species types. These include wild varieties and selections developed from those species. Most are smaller in stature and bloom size than hybrid tulips.

Because they are variants of wildflowers, species tulips are usually long-lived, hardy, and withstand stormy spring weather conditions. Many multiply and spread from year to year.Species tulips are especially suited for growing in rock gardens or tucked into beds and borders. Many open only in sunny conditions, keeping their blooms closed on cloudy days or in the evening.Pictured above: Batalinii tulip Red Hunter Tulipa 'Parade' (Darwin Hybrid Tulip) Tulipa 'Parade' (Darwin Hybrid Tulip) Tulipa 'Parade' (Darwin Hybrid Tulip) Tulip 'Parade', Darwin Hybrid Tulip 'Parade', Darwin Hybrid Tulips, Spring Bulbs, Spring Flowers For eye-catching spring color, award-winning Tulip 'Parade' is terrific with its enormous scarlet flowers with delicate yellow edges and a black heart. Long-lasting, these lovely blooms, up to 6 in. wide (15 cm), will enliven your garden in mid-late spring. A favorite member of the Darwin Hybrid Group, it also enjoys a sturdy, long stem that will withstand wind and rain!

Growing up to 20-22 inches tall (50-55 cm), this tulip creates dazzling harmonies with other mid-late season flowering bulbs. Awarded the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society Performs best in full sun in rich, fertile, medium moisture, well-drained soils. Prefers areas with cool winters and warm dry summers. Easy to grow, this tulip is a welcomed addition to beds, borders, containers. For best visual impact, plant in groups (at least 10 to 15 bulbs) or mixed with any other flowering bulbs. Excellent as cut flowers! To be planted in fall. Eating may cause severe discomfort and may cause a skin allergy. A symbol of spring, tulips are the most popular spring bulbs and most gardeners reserve them a spot in the garden or in containers. Grown for their attractive, vibrantly colored flowers, there are currently over 3,000 registered varieties, which are divided into fifteen groups, mostly based on the flower type, size and blooming period of the tulip. The Darwin Hybrid Tulips were developed in the Netherlands: Mr. D.W.

Lefeber, the prominent Dutch breeder, was the one who watched over the early beginnings of this type. He crossed the famous Tulipa fosteriana 'Madame Lefeber' (also known as 'Red Emperor') with various cultivars from the group of tulips then known as the Darwin tulips. The result of this cross-breeding was a series of tulips that excelled due to their flower size and sturdy, long stems. Due to these qualities, these tulips have really made a name for themselves as cut flowers, and are cultivated extensively for this purpose. Their egg-shaped, single blooms, up to 3 in. wide (8 cm), are available in a wide range of colors including orange, red, yellow and pink varieties as well as varieties with differently colored speckles and stripes on their petals. Among the best for naturalizing, these tulips provide blooms up to 5 years and rise up to 20-28 in. tall (50-70 cm) in mid-late spring.

Question: Darwin, Cottage, May and Parrot are varieties of what?
Answer: Tulip