Tulip 'Uncle Tom'

10 bulbs
£10.49
£1.05 each
30 bulbs
£24.99
£0.83 each
Save 21%
60 bulbs
£33.99
£0.57 each
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Its rich, dark colouring gives it a dash of old Hollywood glamour. It's one of the best varieties for achieving a near-'black' flower effect in the garden.

A classic and intensely dramatic peony-flowered tulip, 'Uncle Tom' is a variety that commands attention. It boasts large, fully double blooms packed with layers of velvety petals in a deep, brooding crimson-red that is so dark and saturated it approaches true black in certain lights. Held on strong, relatively short but sturdy stems, it's a truly glamorous and sophisticated addition to any planting scheme, exuding a sense of opulent drama. Its rich, dark colouring gives it a dash of old Hollywood glamour, making it one of the most effective and popular varieties for achieving that coveted near-'black' flower effect in the garden. It is simply stunning when contrasted with pure whites, vibrant oranges, or sharp, acid-yellows. Its compact nature makes it ideal for containers, window boxes, and the front of the border where its sumptuous colour and form can be fully appreciated. It's a statement plant.

Botanical name Tulipa 'Uncle Tom'
Flower colour Deep red
Bulb size 12/+ cm
Established height 40-50 cm
Established spread 10-15 cm
Plant spacing 75 bulbs per m²
Leaf colour Green
Habit Upright
Life cycle Perennial
Hardiness Fully hardy
Years to establish 1st year
Sunlight Full sun
Position Sheltered
Suitable for Borders, Containers, Cut flower gardens
Soil acidity Any
Soil moisture Well-drained
Soil type Loam, Sandy, Chalky
RHS Award (AGM) No
Growing skill Easy to grow
Pollinator-friendly Yes
Deer resistant No

Where to Plant:

This is a sumptuous and dramatic double late tulip, producing large, fragrant, peony-like flowers of a deep, rich, velvety maroon-red. The substantial, 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 easily cause the stems to snap. They require a spot in full sun with fertile, very well-drained soil. It is an excellent choice for adding a touch of luxury to borders or for a dramatic display in large containers.

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 large flower enough room to open fully without being crowded.

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. They are not known for re-flowering well in subsequent years. If you wish to try and save them, you must deadhead the flower as soon as it fades. Allow the foliage to die back and yellow completely before lifting the bulbs, drying them, and storing them somewhere cool and dark until it is time to replant.

Planting and Flowering Calendar

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Key Features

Packed in paper

Packed peat-free

Great for Shade

Attracts wildlife

Perfect for pots

Good for cutting

£10.49

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