Tulip Black Parrot – Parrot Tulip

A stunning, May-flowering tulip, Tulipa Black Parrot is a fairly tall, deciduous, bulbous perennial with an upright habit. The green leaves are quite broad, disappearing in summer as the bulb goes dormant, but it’s wise to plant a late perennial in front to conceal the dying leaves. In May, the purple-black, cupped flowers emerge from green buds with the characteristic twisted, feathered petals of parrot tulips, and sometimes have a green streak down the centre of the petals. It’s particularly good with late-flowering peach and orange tulips. Plant in November, close together to prevent any tendency to flop. It is quite a good perennial tulip if planted 8”/20cm deep – it’s come up in my sandy soil for several years.

Site: Sheltered
Soil: Moderately fertile, well-drained soil
Position: Full sun
Season of interest: Late spring
Hardiness: Fully hardy
Height: 22” (55cm) Spread: 4” (10cm)