Tulip 'La Belle Epoque'

Where to Plant:

This is a highly fashionable and sophisticated double late tulip, prized for its unique, dusky, antique colour palette of salmon-rose, coffee, and apricot. The large, peony-like flower heads are heavy, so it is essential to plant them in a sheltered position, protected from strong winds and heavy spring rain. For the best colour and strong stems, a spot in full sun with fertile, very well-drained soil is required. It is a superb choice for creating a painterly effect in borders and for luxurious container displays.

How to Plant:

Tulip bulbs should be planted late in the autumn, ideally during October or November. This late planting helps to reduce the risk of the fungal disease, Tulip Fire. Dig a hole and plant each bulb at a depth of at least twice its own height, which is typically about 15cm (6 inches) deep. Ensure the pointed tip is facing upwards. Space the bulbs about 10-15cm apart to give each large flower enough room to open fully.

Aftercare:

For the most reliable and impressive display, fancy double tulips like this are best treated as annuals, with fresh bulbs being planted each autumn. To try and encourage them to return, you must deadhead the flower as soon as it fades to stop it setting seed. It is then essential to allow the foliage to die back and yellow completely, for at least six weeks, before lifting the bulbs, drying them, and storing them somewhere cool and dark until autumn.