Tulips come in a diverse array of types, more than twelve of which offer unique colors and blooming times. From the earliest to the latest bloomers, each variety contributes its own charm to the garden. By planting different types of tulips, you can enjoy their vibrant blooms for six weeks or longer each spring.
To understand how these tulips fit into your garden’s seasonal schedule, consult our Bloom Time Chart for Spring and Summer Bulbs. Remember, actual bloom times can vary based on weather, soil conditions, and location. Exploring 11 Tulip Varieties and Their Blooming Seasons:
Fosteriana Tulips (Emperor Tulips)
Fosteriana tulips, also known as Emperor tulips, are among the first large-flowered tulips to bloom each spring. They pair beautifully with daffodils and feature large flowers on sturdy 16-inch stems. These blooms can expand to 8 inches wide on sunny days. An example is the Orange Emperor.
Double Early Tulips
Double Early tulips are distinguished by their extra layers of petals, giving them a rose-like softness. Slightly shorter, typically reaching around 12 inches in height, they are long-lasting and perfect for bouquets. Varieties include Monsella, Abba, Foxtrot, Foxy Foxtrot, Margarita, and Monte Orange.
Single Early Tulips
Single Early tulips are known for their classic tulip shape and large blossoms. They bloom in peak daffodil season and grow to about 10-14 inches tall. The Prince Mix, featuring Purple Prince, Sunny Prince, and Candy Prince, is notable. Flair offers a striking combination of red and yellow petals.
Darwin Hybrid Tulips
Darwin hybrid tulips are robust plants with exceptionally large flowers that bloom in mid-spring. They make a strong statement in the garden and are sometimes called “perennial tulips” due to their potential to rebloom for several years under ideal conditions. Ad Rem is a prime example, with other favorites including Apricot Impression, Banja Luka, Blushing Apeldoorn, Cosmopolitan, Daydream, Golden Parade, Oxford, Pink Impression, and Red Impression.
Greigii Tulips
Greigii tulips are known for their multiple blooms per stem, offering more color per bulb and an extended blooming period. Their foliage often features attractive burgundy flecks or stripes. Examples include Toronto, Casa Grande, Mary Ann, and Red Riding Hood.
By exploring these tulip varieties, you can enjoy a continuous display of vibrant color in your garden throughout the spring season.
Triumph Tulips
Triumph tulips bloom in mid-spring and are available in a spectrum of colors, including many attractive bicolors. These versatile tulips stand 18 to 20 inches tall and are great for both gardens and containers. The Brilliant Mix is a striking example, with other popular varieties including Barcelona, Bastogne, Happy Generation, Jimmy, Purple Lady, and Ronaldo.
Viridiflora Tulips
Often referred to as “green tulips,” Viridiflora tulips are known for their distinctive green streaks on the petals, regardless of the base color. Most bloom in mid to late spring and are long-lasting, making them excellent for bouquets. Flaming Spring Green is a notable variety, and a Viridiflora Mix offers a range of colors.
Parrot Tulips
Parrot tulips are famous for their ruffled petals and vibrant color combinations, ranging from pure white to deep purple. The petals twist as the flowers mature, creating a unique and exotic appearance. A favorite in Dutch Master paintings, Parrot tulips bloom towards the end of the tulip season. Classics include Black Parrot, Estella Rijnveld, and Parrot King.
Fringed and Lily-Flowered Tulips
Fringed tulips feature delicate, filigree-edged petals that catch the light beautifully. These tulips can be planted alone or mixed with other late-season varieties. Popular choices include the salmon-rose Lambada and the red and white Marilyn. Lily-Flowered tulips have long, elegant stems and flared petals, making them ideal companions for other late-blooming tulips. Consider burgundy Merlot, white Sapporo, and red and white Marilyn.
Double Late Tulips
Double Late tulips are among the last to bloom in the spring, showcasing plush, peony-like flowers with layers of silky petals. They are stunning both as stand-alone plants and in combination with taller single late tulips. Many varieties are fragrant and excellent as cut flowers. Favorites include Carnival de Nice, Angelique, and Mount Tacoma.
Single Late Tulips
Single Late tulips, also known as French or cottage tulips, are large, long-lasting blooms that can reach up to 28 inches in height. They feature shapely, well-formed flowers and are heat tolerant, making them a regal addition to any garden. Classics include Dordogne, Queen of Night, and Menton.
By exploring these diverse tulip varieties, you can create a dynamic and colorful garden that evolves beautifully throughout the spring season.
