Parrot Tulip
Tulipa Parrot Group
Parrot Tulips are the most flamboyant and extravagant of all tulip groups, known for their dramatically ruffled, fringed, and twisted petals in vivid colors with contrasting streaks. They symbolize imagination, extravagance, and passionate love.
Liliaceae (Lily family)
Mid to late spring (April–May)
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Cultural Significance
Parrot Tulips emerged from spontaneous mutations in 17th-century Dutch and French tulip cultivation — first recorded in France around 1665 and brought to the Netherlands in the 18th century. Their ruffled, irregular petal edges, which were thought to resemble the feathers or plumage of tropical parrots, made them objects of great fascination and desire during the era of Tulip Mania. In the language of flowers (floriography), tulips generally symbolize perfect love, and the Parrot group's flamboyant, theatrical form amplifies this into a declaration of passionate, imaginative, and extravagant feeling. Their ongoing popularity in floristry and garden design reflects their enduring reputation as the most expressive and visually dramatic of all tulip types.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun; at least 6 hours of direct sun per day for the best flowers and stem strength
Water
Moderate moisture in spring during growth and flowering; requires a warm, dry dormancy period in summer. Excellent drainage is essential — bulbs rot in waterlogged soil.
Soil
Well-drained, Fertile, Sandy loam to loam, Neutral to slightly alkaline (pH 6.0–7.0)
Expert Growing Tips
Plant bulbs 6–8 inches (15–20 cm) deep and 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) apart in late autumn (October–November)
Choose a sunny, sheltered position — the large flowers are susceptible to wind damage
Provide excellent drainage; raise beds or add grit to heavy soils to prevent bulb rot
Lift and dry bulbs after foliage dies down if growing in heavy or damp soils, or leave in well-drained spots
Shorter flower stems than other tulip groups — plant toward the front or middle of borders
Feed with a balanced bulb fertilizer in early spring as shoots emerge to boost flowering
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Spring borders and bedding displays for maximum dramatic impact
- Cut flowers for flamboyant spring arrangements (vase life 5–7 days)
- Containers and pots for patio displays
- Mixed tulip borders combining with single and double varieties for contrast
- Wedding and event floristry for statement floral designs
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Parrot Tulip
Why are they called parrot tulips?
Parrot tulips get their name from their dramatically ruffled, fringed, and twisted petals, which were thought to resemble the colorful, ruffled feathers of a tropical parrot. The vivid, often multicolored streaking and feathering on their petals also reinforces the comparison to exotic parrot plumage.
What do parrot tulips symbolize?
Parrot tulips symbolize imagination, extravagance, and passionate love. Their flamboyant, theatrical form amplifies the tulip's general meaning of perfect love into something more expressive, bold, and dramatic. They are also associated with creativity and irresistible charm in the language of flowers.
Are parrot tulips perennials or annuals?
Parrot tulips grow from bulbs and are technically perennials, but they are often treated as annuals in gardens. In the right conditions — well-drained soil, a warm dry summer dormancy, and a sunny position — they can return and rebloom for several years. However, flower quality often declines after the first season.
When do parrot tulips bloom?
Parrot tulips bloom in mid to late spring, typically in April and May, slightly later than early-season tulips. They flower alongside Single Late Tulips and Double Late Tulips, making them an excellent choice for extending the spring tulip display.
How do you care for parrot tulips?
Plant bulbs 6–8 inches deep in well-drained soil in a sunny, sheltered position in autumn. Water moderately in spring and avoid waterlogged conditions. Once flowers fade, allow leaves to die down naturally before removing them. In wet climates, lift and store bulbs dry over summer to prevent rot.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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