Tulipa Big Chief

Darwin Hybrid Tulip 'Big Chief' is an exceptional,  awarded-winning variety. Its huge, iridescent flowers are composed of thick-textured petals, in soft red brushed with salmon pink on a grey-pink silver background, revealing a pale yellow heart when fully open. Big Chief belongs to a new line of earlier flowering Darwin hybrids with more durable flowers and strong, weather-resistant stems. It blooms in the heart of spring, in May. Dazzling in flower beds, it is also a sensational flower for bouquets.

'Big Chief' Darwin hybrid tulip belongs to the lily family. Of horticultural origin, it is currently classified in Division 4, characterized by large single egg-shaped flowers in mid-season, carried by long weather-resistant stems. Tulips in this group are the most cultivated for the cut flower trade. 'Big Chief' will reach 50 to 60 cm (20 to 24in) high when in bloom. Perched on strong stems, well above the broadly lanceolate leaves, the very large flowers are elongated, elegant, and open into wide corollas measuring 15 to 20 cm (6 to 8in) in diameter. They have a delicious and indulgent hue, with almost silver iridescent highlights. The red-pink-salmon colour is enhanced by the slightly waxy and translucent texture of the petals. The corolla opens to reveal a soft yellow heart around a small white centre.  Flowering takes place in May, and each flower lasts several days before fading.

The rich colouration of 'Big Chief' allows for combinations with white, pink, purple, or red tulips, creating a beautiful contrast. It also pairs well with daffodils, jonquils, hyacinths, alchemilla, Corsican hellebores, and euphorbias, resulting in stunning compositions. It can also be planted in borders, rockeries, flower beds, pots and containers. This tulip will be beautiful on balconies and terraces. It perfectly complements tall perennials and is ideal for creating elegant bouquets. In a vase, only add very little water at the bottom! If your tulips open too quickly, you can add two to three ice cubes in the vase every day.