Tulip
Tulipa spp.
Tulips are elegant spring bulbs with cup-shaped flowers that herald the arrival of warmer weather. These graceful blooms symbolize perfect love and new beginnings, making them ideal for celebrating fresh starts and deep affection.
Liliaceae
Early to late spring (March-May)
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: calla lilys and roses also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Tulips originated in the Ottoman Empire and became symbols of paradise. The Dutch "Tulip Mania" of the 1630s made them more valuable than gold. They represent the arrival of spring in many cultures and are Turkey's national flower.Botanical Information
Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade
Water
Moderate during growing season, dry during dormancy
Soil
Well-drained, Sandy loam, Neutral to slightly alkaline pH
Expert Growing Tips
Plant bulbs in fall before ground freezes
Plant 3 times deeper than bulb height
Provide winter chill for proper blooming
Allow foliage to die back naturally
Divide and replant every 3-5 years
Protect from rodents with wire mesh
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Spring garden displays
- Bulb gardens and rock gardens
- Cut flower arrangements
- Forcing for indoor blooms
- Mass plantings and borders
- Container gardens
Available Colors
Quick Facts
Perfect Tulip Gift
Tulip Watercolor Floral Throw Pillow
Beautiful decorative pillow featuring tulip design
Share This Flower
Explore More Beautiful Flowers
Discover other flowers with similar meanings, characteristics, or cultural significance.
Calla Lily
Zantedeschia spp.
Calla lilies are elegant, trumpet-shaped blooms symbolizing purity, rebirth, and elegance—popular in weddings and formal arrangements.
Rose
Rosa spp.
Roses are the quintessential symbol of love and beauty, featuring layered petals and intoxicating fragrance. With over 300 species, roses represent the full spectrum of human emotions and have been cherished across cultures for millennia.
Lily (True Lily)
Lilium spp.
True lilies (Lilium) are elegant, often fragrant flowers grown from bulbs, prized for their large, showy blooms. They symbolize purity, beauty, and refined love.