Tulipa 'Black Parrot'
Tulipa 'Black Parrot'
A dramatic parrot tulip with fringed and feathered deep purple-black petals. The ruffled flowers open wide in the sun revealing their extraordinary petal texture. Flowers in late April to May. Less uniform than standard tulips giving a wild romantic quality. Stunning in vases. One of the darkest parrot varieties.
Where to plant
Best aspect
Border position
When to plant and expect flowers
Plant
Flowers
How to grow tulipa 'black parrot'
Plant 15-20cm deep in November. The heavy fringed flowers may need support in exposed positions. Opens wide in warm sunshine to show the extraordinary petal texture. Excellent as a cut flower. Plant in sheltered positions for best results.
Soil requirements
Soil type
loam, sand, chalk
Moisture
well drained
pH
neutral, alkaline
Aftercare
Allow foliage to die back naturally after flowering. Remove spent flower heads to prevent self-seeding.
Propagation
- Offsets in autumn
- Seed
Wildlife value
Toxicity
All parts toxic, especially bulbs. Contains tulipalin A and B causing skin irritation and gastrointestinal upset.
Common problems
- Tulip fire (Botrytis tulipae)
- Squirrels digging up bulbs
- Slugs on young shoots
- Bulb rot in waterlogged soil
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