Fringed Tulip 'Brest' - 25 pieces

Two special features come together in 'Brest'. The flower is densely double like a peony, and every petal ends in fine fringes. The strong purple pink passes towards the edge into a pale, almost pure white reminiscent of hoar frost. So the flower looks two-toned and soft at the same time.

At about 45–55 cm and with firm stems it suits the front of the border, borders in general and pots. White forget-me-nots, silvery foliage or soft pink tulips underline its romantic character. It also looks good among early perennials such as lady's mantle or hardy geraniums. In a large container on the terrace or by the entrance you can see the fine fringes up close.

In the vase the double flowers last well and open gradually. Bees find hardly any food in them. Double and fringed garden tulips flower most abundantly in their first year; if you want full flowers every year, lift the bulbs about a month after flowering or plant more.

Plant the bulbs from September to December, in Switzerland ideally in October and November when the soil has cooled. Set them 10–15 cm deep, tip upwards, 10–12 cm apart. 'Brest' looks best in groups of 10 or more. Choose a sunny spot with free-draining soil; in heavy soil add a little sand or grit to the planting hole. In pots the bulbs can sit closer together.

The soil should not dry out while the plants are sprouting and flowering, so water in dry spring weather. After flowering remove the seed head, but leave the foliage until it has turned yellow. The bulbs can stay in the ground; since garden tulips flower best in their first year, it is worth replanting or lifting the bulbs once the foliage has died back and storing them dry. To protect against voles, it is best to plant in a wire basket. In winter, stand large containers where they will not be permanently wet.