Tulipa Flaming Purissima

Tulipa 'Flamming Purissima' is a delightful variety derived from the famous 'Purissima' Tulip. With the same ornamental qualities and ease of cultivation, it has large flowers that change colour over time; cream-white when they bloom, gradually turning to increasingly intense fuchsia pink, until they become almost completely pink. Each flower is different, and together they form a carpet of pink and white. It is very resistant, robust and undemanding and will faithfully return for many years without degenerating. It is also one of the first to bloom. It is wonderful in flowerbeds, borders and bouquets.

This Tulip is a hardy botanical species native to Turkestan. Tulips derived from T. fosteriana belong to division 13, they are reliable: they are among the first tulips to bloom, sometimes as early as mid-March, and they naturalise easily so there is no need to replace them regularly. This bulbous plant produces short, strong but flexible stems,  35 to 40 cm (14 to 16in) tall when in bloom, carrying a large cup-shaped corolla at their end,  20 cm (8in) wide when fully open. The uniqueness of 'Flaming Purissima' lies in its mixed and changing flowers, where cream and pink blend in a constantly renewed variation. The corolla opens and widens in the sun to reveal a small yellow throat adorned with black stamens. Broad medium green foliage grows beneath the flowers.

Fosteriana tulips are suitable for all uses, in flowerbeds, borders and even in bouquets for the taller varieties. Their sparkling yet elegant colours go well with blue hyacinths, grape hyacinths, or other tulips. Remember to consider the height and flowering period when designing your flowerbeds, as these can vary significantly from one cultivar to another. It is a good idea to plant a few more bulbs for beautiful cut flowers that last a long time in a vase.