Tulipa

History of the tulipa

The tulipa is a flower with a rich history and cultural significance. Originally from the Ottoman Empire, where it was a symbol of beauty and wealth, the tulip spread to Europe in the 16th century via diplomats such as Busbequis. Botanists such as Conrad Gessner and Carolus Clusius played a major role in the introduction and popularity of the tulip in European gardens. Around 1570, the tulip reached the Netherlands, where it became a status symbol and led to Tulip Mania in the 17th century, a period of extreme speculation around tulip bulbs. The Netherlands became the center of the tulip trade and remains the world leader in the export of tulip bulbs to this day.

Popular tulip flower varieties

There are thousands of varieties of tulips, each with their own characteristics. Here are some of the most popular varieties:

• Single tulips: These tulips bloom early in the season and have simple, elegant flowers. These are the classic flowers, as we know the tulip. They are perfect for adding color to your garden in early spring.
• Double-flowered tulips: Also known as peony tulips because of their full, double flowers. These tulips bloom later in the season and give a lush look.
• Parrot tulips: This special variety has been known since 1665. Their striking and whimsically twisted petals are the result of spontaneous mutations. Due to their exuberant appearance, they can really come into their own when planted a little further apart, with fine-leaved foliage plants as an airy space in between.
• Viridiflora tulips: Viridiflora tulips are a special group of tulips that are known for their unique, green accents on the petals. These tulips often combine striking colors such as yellow, pink, red or white with a touch of green. This gives them an exotic look.
• Fosteriana tulips: The Fosteriana tulips are also called Imperial Tulips. They are among the oldest and most elegant tulip varieties. They have large, elongated petals and can be ordered in striking colours in our webshop.

Planting tulips

Tulip bulbs are usually planted in the autumn, between September and November, before the frost starts. This gives the bulbs time to develop roots before winter sets in.

Tulips are best planted in a sunny location with well-drained soil. You can dig a hole that is two to three times as deep as the height of the bulb. Place the bulb with the point upwards in the hole. Cover the bulb with soil and water.

Tulips are relatively low-maintenance flowers, but with the right care you can maximise flowering. You can do this by watering, especially during dry periods. If necessary, you can use a fertiliser specifically for flower bulbs to promote growth. To save energy, you can remove faded flowers.

Tulip bulbs for sale from Nijssenbulbs

We specialise in the sale of high-quality flower bulbs, including an extensive range of tulips. We have different types of tulips, such as single tulips, Darwin tulips, lily-flowered tulips and fringed tulips.

View all types in our webshop. Would you like more information, advice or care tips when purchasing tulips? Feel free to contact us. We are happy to help you with the right tulip advice!

Frequently Asked Questions about Tulips