Tulipa Queen of Night (12cm pot | 5 per pot)

Velvety, dark maroon blooms. Position: full sun Soil: fertile, well-drained soil Rate of growth: average Flowering period: April to May Hardiness: fully hardy Bulb size: 11/12 These are probably the best loved of the deep purple tulips. Their velvety, dark maroon, single, cup-shaped flowers on straight stems in May are stunning, so they do deserve their acclaim. The almost-black tulips work well in a 'bruised' coloured border, planted between other plum-coloured flowers and foliage plants. Shown here photographed with tulip 'Shirley'. Garden care: In September to December plant bulbs 15-20cm deep and 10-15cm apart in fertile, well-drained soil. Alternatively, allow 7-9 bulbs per 30cm sq. After flowering deadhead and apply a balanced liquid fertiliser each week for the first month. Once the foliage has died down naturally lift the bulbs and store in a cool greenhouse.