Greigii Tulips: Greigii hybrids are more robust than many other tulips, and may be left permanently in the ground to multiply. This group is currently the largest group of tulips closely related to botanical species. The principle colors are red, yellow and white. Combined with their stunning spotted and striped leaves, these flower colors create an unforgettable visual impact. These qualities make Greigii tulips unsurpassed for use in borders, rock gardens, and in pots. This little tulip naturalizes easily.
Parrot Tulips: These whimsically-shaped, unusually-colored tulips have been developed from mutations of certain late-flowering tulips, and from tulips in the Triumph group. The petals of these tulips are serrated or "fringed". As the large flowers are exposed to the sun over time, they open so widely that they almost flatten out. The flowers are green as buds, and as they grow it may seem as if the tulips will remain entirely green forever. But as the flower matures and opens, the brilliant colors are revealed. Some varieties are known as 'bi-colored', but are actually 'tri-colored' because of their ever-present green color.
Fringed Tulips: A relatively new and expanding division, these tulips have a clearly defined crystalline fringe and make very beautiful and artistic flowers that also look like the frayed edge of a piece of satin fabric. More and more people are becoming interested in fringed tulips - so much so, that these tulips now have their own group.
Lily-Flowering Tulip: These tulips have a unique shape where the blossom resembles a lily, or, sometimes, an urn. Long, pointed petals that are curved back create this effect. From above, the open flower can look like a six-pointed star. They are quite tall and known for their long-lasting elegant flowers. Lily flowering tulips reliably come back every year. Lily flowering tulips are not only reliable, but they also have a look of elegance.
Rembrandt Tulips: Developed around 1610. A bold contrasting streak of color is the most notable characteristic of this class. Tall stems hold mid-size flowers with feathering of contrasting colors. They make excellent cut flowers. The tulips were called "Rembrandts," stemming from the abundance of tulips in famous Dutch Master paintings in this era, which was known as the Golden Age of Dutch Painting.
Planting instructions: Grow in the sun in informal groupings of 5 or more bulbs. Plant bulbs in fall 6-8" deep and 5" apart in well-drained soil with plenty of humus. Remove old flowers leaving as much stem and foliage as possible until they die down. Plant 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. |
