Occurring naturally in the northern temperate regions, especially central Asia, the genus Tulipa contains around 100 species of bulbs. They have been cultivated for at least 3,000 years and reached Europe from Turkey in 1554. They quickly became a garden favorite but it was not until the Dutch "tulipomania" of the 1630s that tulips became established in our folklore as well as our gardens. Tulip leaves are gray-green to blue-green and may be grassy or quite broad, with contrasting markings. The flowers vary widely between the species, and so many hybrids and cultivars exist that they are often divided into 15 groups based primarily on parentage and flower type. The blooms are unfailingly delightful, especially if planted as a massed bedding of a single type.
CULTIVATION
Tulips need a temperate climate and winter chilling. They do best in a sunny position that does not bake in summer. Plant fairly deeply in autumn, around 6 in (15 cm) deep, and water well once the foliage appears. Propagate hybrids and cultivars from offsets; the species can be propagated from seed.
Top Tip
When cutting tulips for indoor decoration, select flowers that have not yet opened and cut them early in the morning while the day is still cool.
CULTIVATION
Tulips need a temperate climate and winter chilling. They do best in a sunny position that does not bake in summer. Plant fairly deeply in autumn, around 6 in (15 cm) deep, and water well once the foliage appears. Propagate hybrids and cultivars from offsets; the species can be propagated from seed.
Top Tip
When cutting tulips for indoor decoration, select flowers that have not yet opened and cut them early in the morning while the day is still cool.
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