Tulipa fosteriana 'Garden of Clusius'

Tulipa forsteriana 'Garden of Clusius' is a new variety known for its early flowering, longevity in the garden, and ability to naturalize in favourable soil. Light and lively like a concerto in G major, the flowering of this variety awakens with spring, often as early as mid-March, in infinitely bright corollas. Each flower, with its elongated curve, displays six cream-white petals around a black centre, warmed by a creamy yellow glow at the base. The somewhat lunar charm of the flowers is accentuated by ample foliage that is curiously more grey than green. Full of charm and distinction, this tulip has its rightful place in a white or grey garden. Showcase it alongside vibrant red botanical tulips.

Tulipa fosteriana is a  hardy botanical species originally from Turkestan. Tulips derived from T. fosteriana belong to division 13, and they are reliable performers: among the first tulips to bloom, sometimes as early as March 15, they naturalize and multiply easily, so there is no need to replace them regularly. This bulbous plant produces short, sturdy yet flexible stems, 25 to  30cm (12in) tall when in bloom, bearing at their tips a cup-shaped corolla,  12cm (5in) wide at full bloom, creamy white that opens and expands in the sun to reveal a deep, wide, light yellow throat marked by a black eye. Below this flowering, a broad, iris-like foliage grows, strongly tinted with grey.

Fosteriana tulips are suitable for all uses, in borders, mass plantings, and even in bouquets for taller varieties. Their sparkling yet elegant colours pair well with blue hyacinths, grape hyacinths, or other tulips. When designing your borders, don't forget to consider the height and flowering period, as these parameters can vary significantly from one cultivar to another. It is wise to plant a few extra bulbs for cutting, as they make superb long-lasting cut flowers. The pastel flowers of 'Garden of Clusius' blend beautifully with the bright red corollas of the linifolia botanical tulip or the wilsoniana botanical tulip, for example.