Tulip 'Black Hero'

Where to Plant:

A truly dramatic and sought-after variety, 'Black Hero' is a double-flowered version of the famous 'Queen of Night'. It produces large, peony-like blooms of a deep, velvety, maroon-black colour. The heavy flowers need a sheltered spot, protected from strong wind and rain, to prevent the stems from snapping. Plant it in a position that receives full sun in fertile, well-drained soil. It is superb for creating a touch of drama in borders and containers, especially when contrasted with pale-coloured flowers.

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:

Like most double tulips, 'Black Hero' is not reliably perennial and is best treated as an annual for a guaranteed show each year. To try and encourage it to return, you must remove the spent flower head once the petals have fallen. It is then essential to allow the foliage to die back completely, leaving it for at least six weeks after flowering before removing it. Feeding with a high-potassium liquid fertiliser during this period can also help.