Species Tulip Tulipa praestans 'Zwanenburg' - 100 pieces

Tulipa praestans comes from the mountains of Central Asia and is one of the most robust species tulips. 'Zwanenburg Variety' is a proven selection with clear red flowers. Typically for the species, one stem often carries several flowers. The petals are simply shaped and open wide in the sun.

At 25–35 cm tall, it suits the front of a border, a rock garden and large containers. With 100 bulbs you can create generous carpets, for example in front of shrubs or along a path. White species tulips, squills or early daffodils complement the red. In a bulb lasagne it forms an early layer. Planted in loose clumps rather than strict rows, it creates a more natural look reminiscent of a cottage garden.

As an early bloomer, it brings colour to the garden as early as March, when much is still dormant. As a species tulip it is long-lived and returns year after year in a sunny, free-draining spot. Tulips keep growing a few centimetres in the vase and lean towards the light, which gives every bouquet a lively shape.

The planting season runs from September to December. October and November work best, December if need be, as long as the ground is not frozen. Place each bulb 10–15 cm deep, roughly three times its own height, tip upwards and 10–12 cm apart. Choose a sunny spot with loose, free-draining soil; lighten heavy soil with sand or grit. In pots, plant more closely.

Water a little during dry weeks in spring; otherwise the plant needs hardly any care. Pinch off seed heads and let the foliage turn yellow so that the bulb can build up strength. There is no need to lift the bulbs; the plants stay in place for many years. Where voles are common, a planting basket is recommended. Protect large containers from prolonged rain in winter.