Botanical Tulips

It is generally assumed that about 150 different wild species exist in an area running roughly from Central Asia to Spain and Portugal. Some of these 'real' species are cultivated on a modest level, but most are interesting only to certain tulip enthusiasts.

• Others, though, are attractive to the ordinary garden owner. It must be mentioned that the interest in wild species is increasing steadily – this phenomenon may have something to do with the fact that more and more wild plants are disappearing from our environment. Tulipa tarda was even pronounced 'Flower Bulb of the Year' in Holland in 1997, an award that definitely says something about its rising popularity. The bulbs, offered in sizes 6/8 to 8/10, are smaller than those of ordinary tulips and are very easy to naturalize.
• Botanical tulips have a natural look. They stay nice and close to the ground, and they seem to be in flower as soon as they emerge from the soil. Their bright colors make them real eye-catchers in early spring. The striped leaves of many varieties make these even more appealing. And another important thing: these ‘wild’ tulips won’t be bothered by wind and weather.
• In early spring, when the garden, terrace or balcony has little to offer in the way of visual interest, Botanical tulips brighten things up straight away. These are real early birds: they bloom before any other tulips. They catch the eye not only because of their extra early flowering but also because of their inflorescence and cheery range of colors. In addition, the graceful way the flowers open and their pretty foliage make them attractive before, during and after flowering. In other words, Botanical tulips are simply bursting with nice characteristics.
• Botanical tulips are great naturalizers. They not only return year after year, but they multiply and build up a small colony over time. These petite plants are well suited for rock gardens, along walkways and in naturalized areas.