Tulipa Grand Perfection Tulip Bulbs

Royal Horticultural Society Award of Garden Merit

Plant Tulipa Grand Perfection bulbs in autumn before the first frost, and in mid-spring, they begin flowering in bodacious blooms with striking color. A Rembrandt tulip, Grand Perfection has flamed flowers with a classic cup shape and painterly red brushstrokes running the full length of their petals, which open with a buttery yellow background that matures to white as the blooms age. Borne singly atop tall, sturdy stems rising to about 14 to 16 inches, these fabulous funnel-shaped flowers sit above attractive strappy glaucous-green leaves, creating a distinctive display of unparalleled beauty. They make extraordinary bouquets and masterful mixed floral arrangements.

A Tulipa gesneriana cultivar, Grand Perfection is a bulbous perennial, typically grown as an annual. However, in ideal growing conditions, Grand Perfection tulips may naturalize and return for several years. Tulips look their best when planted in groups in beds and borders, in masses under deciduous trees in the landscape, or in large sweeping drifts in open woodlands. Tulips mix well with other spring-blooming bulbs and planting several different varieties of tulips will extend the flowering time. Tulips make a great ground cover, which can be especially useful for controlling erosion during spring rains. They also grow well in patio pots and can be forced for indoor blooms in winter. Tulips work beautifully in any style garden, but they're a must-have for cottage, informal, and rock gardens.

Easy to grow and maintain, Grand Perfection tulips are cold hardy—to Zone 3—and grow best in sunny locations; but in warmer climates, some light shade may help to keep them cool and extend their bloom time. Tulips prefer average to nutrient-rich, well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. When planting, allow adequate space between bulbs and plant them at the proper depth—4 to 8 inches apart and 4 to 8 inches deep. Feed bulbs with a well-balanced fertilizer, like Espoma Organic® Bulb-tone® Bulb and Flower Food, as soon as growth begins in spring to encourage robust flowering in both the current season and the following spring season. Remove spent flowers immediately but allow the leaves to turn yellow and wither before removing. In USDA Zones 8-10, refrigerate the bulbs for no less than eight weeks.

Visit our Bulb Supplies page to find all the tools and materials you need to plant and maintain your bulb plants successfully.