Tulipa Katinka- Double Early Tulip

Tulipa 'Katinka' is the new star of very 'Chic' bouquets. Still difficult to find, this bulb recently introduced in the Netherlands produces open cup-shaped flowers, rather round and short, in a soft mauve lilac colour, randomly marbled with pale green on the reverse, very double. It blooms after early single tulips, in April, and its flowering lasts a long time. Combine it with pink, white, purple, or even orange tulips.

The very recent Tulip 'Katinka', introduced in 2016, belongs to the Liliaceae family. Of horticultural origin, it is currently classified in the group of early double tulips, whose main characteristic is to bloom at the same height, making it a popular category among lovers of well-regulated flower beds. They are often offered in a mixture of colours under the name 'Murillo' tulips. Perched on strong 35cm (14in) stems, just above the broadly lanceolate leaves of a slightly greyish green, the predominantly mauve, very bright double flowers are very open. The flowering takes place in April, in the heart of the tulip season.

With their wide range of colours, strong and resistant flowers, suitable for both flower beds and bouquets, double early tulips with gardenia-like flowers have many advantages. They are among the most commonly used varieties for cut flowers. Unmatched for bringing the colours of spring, in pots or in sunny gardens, don't forget to consider the height and flowering period of tulips when designing your flower beds, as these parameters can vary significantly from one cultivar to another. It is wise to plant a few more bulbs for cutting, as they make beautiful cut flowers that last a long time in a vase.

About botanical species: wild tulips can be found from Western Europe to China and Japan, passing through Eastern Europe, Asia Minor, and Central Asia. Their distribution area also includes North Africa and the Indian subcontinent. The centre of diversity for the genus is located in the Pamir and Hindu Kush mountains and the steppes of Kazakhstan.