Tulip 'Apricot Parrot'

5 bulbs
£10.49
£2.10 each
10 bulbs
£15.49
£1.55 each
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25 bulbs
£21.99
£0.88 each
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Apricot Parrot' was introduced in 1961 and is a 'sport' (a natural mutation) of the classic Darwin tulip 'Dillenburg'. It won the prestigious Award of Garden Merit from the RHS.

A sensational and much-loved variety, 'Apricot Parrot' is famed for its wonderfully soft and romantic colouring. The enormous, ruffled petals are a delicate blend of apricot-pink, soft primrose yellow, and creamy white, with subtle green flames on the outer petals. Each flower is a masterpiece of texture and colour, with petals that twist, curl, and wave to create a full, feathered effect. The fragrance is a delightful bonus, adding another layer of sensory appeal. As the flower ages, the colours soften to beautiful pastel shades. It’s an incredibly graceful and elegant choice for a parrot tulip, bringing a touch of gentle drama to garden beds and floral arrangements. Its strong stems hold the large blooms well, making it a reliable choice for both the garden and the vase. It’s a classic for a reason.

Botanical name Tulipa 'Apricot Parrot'
Flower colour Apricot-rose with touches of cream, green and yellow
Bulb size 12/+ cm
Established height 40-50 cm
Established spread 20 cm
Plant spacing 60 bulbs per m²
Leaf colour Grey-green
Habit Upright, can arch
Life cycle Perennial
Hardiness Fully hardy
Years to establish 1st year
Sunlight Full sun
Position Sheltered
Suitable for Borders, Pots, Cut flower gardens
Soil acidity Any
Soil moisture Well-drained
Soil type Loam, Sandy, Chalky
RHS Award (AGM) Yes
Growing skill Easy to grow
Pollinator-friendly Yes
Deer resistant No

Where to Plant:

A truly flamboyant and exotic tulip, 'Apricot Parrot' has enormous, ruffled, and fringed petals in a stunning mix of apricot, rose, cream, and green. The large, heavy flower heads mean it is essential to plant them in a sheltered position, well protected from strong winds and heavy spring rain which can cause the stems to snap. They must have a spot in full sun with very well-drained soil. They are best used as a spectacular feature in a border or as a magnificent cut flower.

How to Plant:

The bulbs should be planted late in the autumn, during October or November. It is important to plant them deeply to help support the heavy flowers. Dig a hole at least 15-20cm (6-8 inches) deep and place the bulb in the bottom with its pointed tip facing the sky. Space the bulbs about 15cm apart to give each magnificent flower enough room to open fully without being crowded.

Aftercare:

For the most reliable and spectacular display, Parrot tulips are best treated as annuals, and fresh bulbs should be planted each autumn. They are not reliable at re-flowering in subsequent years. If you do wish to try and save them, you must deadhead the flower as soon as it fades and feed the plant with a high-potassium fertiliser. Allow the foliage to die back completely before lifting the bulbs and storing them in a cool, dry, dark place until autumn.

Planting and Flowering Calendar

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Key Features

Packed in paper

Packed peat-free

Great for Shade

Attracts wildlife

Fragrant

RHS Award (AGM)

Perfect for pots

Good for cutting

£10.49

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