Fringed Tulip 'Gorilla' - 25 pieces

Dark tulips have an appeal of their own, and 'Gorilla' is one of the finest. The flower is a deep plum violet with a hint of burgundy and has a silky sheen. The edges are set with fine fringes that look like ice crystals in the light. The result is a contrast between rich colour and delicate texture.

At about 45–55 cm tall it suits the middle of beds and borders. Its dark colour shows up beside light partners: white tulips, pale pink varieties or cream-yellow daffodils. Silvery foliage, such as lamb's ears, is also a good neighbour. In pots, set it above a layer of white grape hyacinths.

In the vase 'Gorilla' looks elegant, especially together with pale flowers. It plays hardly any role for bees. It gives its finest display in the first year. If you want the dark colour equally strong in the bed every year, add a few bulbs in autumn.

In Switzerland the best time to plant is October to November; planting is possible from September to December as long as the ground is not frozen. Set the bulbs 10–15 cm deep with the tip pointing up, roughly three times the height of the bulb. Space them 10–12 cm apart and plant in groups of 10 or more rather than singly. The soil should drain freely; in loam or clay, a handful of grit in the hole helps. In pots, set the bulbs closer together.

In dry spells in spring the tulip needs a little water. Remove the seed head after flowering, but leave the foliage until it has turned yellow, as it feeds the bulb. You can leave the bulbs in the bed, or lift them once the leaves have died back, store them dry and replant in autumn; if you want an equally generous display every year, top up with fresh bulbs. Where voles are a problem, a planting basket is worthwhile. In pots, protect the bulbs from prolonged winter wet.