Each flower has its own character and beauty. From the fragrant roses to the soft and delicate daffodils, to the extravagant parrot tulips that take center stage in the late spring.

How can we even begin describing the beauty of tulips?

Did you know that there are more than 150 species of tulips? It also has over 3,000 different varieties. They have different vibrant colors, each one has meaning, and can you begin to imagine being surrounded by this beautiful creation?

The Parrot Tulip

One of the most beautiful types of tulips is the “Parrot tulip.” As the name suggests, these beautiful flowers are flamboyant with their bright colors. Unlike other tulips, they have fringed, curly and twisted petals, similar to the equally beautiful tropical birds.

That is the reason why they are called Parrot Tulips.

Expect parrot tulips to bloom mid-to-late season. Their stems range from 12 to 28 inches tall and their big flowers wouldn’t do well in extreme weather conditions. That’s why it’s better to plant them in a location that can protect them.

Parrot tulips almost come in every hue, and one of the most popular is the Black Parrot Tulip.

The exquisite Black Parrot Tulip

While some of the Parrot Tulips are two-toned, there is one that stands out because of its dramatic, whimsical, and exquisite beauty – the Black Parrot.

It’s dark yet fragrant and will truly captivate anyone who sees it. It grows up to 16-24 inches tall and performs best in rich soils.

It is also one of the recipients of the Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society.

Some describe its exterior as dark purple, often with a black center. Some Black Parrot Tulips have beautiful green streaks in the middle part of each petal, making the colors more striking and captivating.

How to grow Parrot Tulips

If these tulips have already captured your heart and you plan to grow them, here’s something to remember.

Plant your parrot tulip bulbs in a location where there is full sunlight and rich soil. It’s best to start planting in the early autumn and until November.

Be sure that your flower bed is safe from harsh winds, for this can damage the delicate and long parrot tulips.

Make sure to plant your parrot tulip bulb about 12.5 cm. deep. Then allow around 10 to 15 cm space between each tulip bulb.

After planting, just water them lightly. Allow the bulbs to absorb the moisture and nutrients of the soil. It would also work great if you can find shredded bark, organic mulch, or even pine needles. Use these to cover the area.

How to care for Parrot Tulips

Remember that in early spring, remove all the organic mulch.

This is also the start of watering them weekly. It’s better to use a drip system so the pressure of the water won’t cause damage to the blooms.

Lastly, once the tulip flowers have faded, you don’t have to remove the foliage. Remember to care for your plants to ensure another season of beautiful bloom. Feed them regularly during their growing season with rich fertilizer.

Once you get the hang of caring for parrot tulips or any type of tulips, you’ll enjoy the process and of course, you’ll enjoy another spring of beautiful tulips.

Are you a fan of the parrot tulips or the regular ones? Don’t forget to share this with your friends and family.

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Source: Gardening Know How, Gardenia, Garden Design