Tulipa Cerise Parrot

Tulipa Cerise Parrot blooms in May, in an extraordinarily vibrant fuchsia pink. Its large, silky flower with twisted petals shines like silk and is highlighted by small green flames, which help to soften the almost outrageous pink of the corolla. The 35 cm (14in), short and sturdy stem, supports this large 12cm (5in) corolla without weakening. Very long-lasting in a vase and in flower beds.

The 'Cerise Parrot' Tulip, introduced in 2004, belongs to the Liliaceae family. Of horticultural origin, it is currently classified in the group of 'Parrot Tulips', whose main characteristic is enormous flowers with twisted, puffed up, irregularly fringed petals. 'Cerise Parrot' is also obtained through mutation (the sudden appearance of new characteristics that are maintained in subsequent generations). It is of modest size (average 35 cm (14in)) and its very long-lasting flower reaches 12 cm (5in) in width. It is extremely vibrant pinkish red, not quite a true cherry red. Each flower has greater or fewer touches of dark green, apple green or white. The original shape of the parrot tulip adds charm, making it anything but boring, especially when its buds slowly open in a vase In the sun, the large flowers open almost flat to reveal a black star-shaped centre from which the light yellow pistil emerges. The bright green foliage is ample and vigorous.

Parrot tulips are famous for their wealth of colours and stunning and variegated flowers, which can be used in flower beds and to enhance bouquets. In the 18th century, they were called 'monstrous' but this group developed greatly in the 1930s when it was discovered that irradiating bulbs with X-rays caused this mutation. With their very baroque charm, they are among the most original varieties, unmatched for bringing fantasy to pots or sunny gardens. Remember to consider the height and flowering period when designing your flower beds, as these parameters can vary significantly from one cultivar to another. It is a good idea to plant a few more bulbs for beautiful long-lasting cut flowers. Cerise Parrot flower pairs well with pastel tulips, in shades of pink (Angélique), white (Maureen), or mauve (Shirley, Bleu Aimable, Blue Parrot).