Tulipa Apricot Emperor

Elegant, luminous and among the very first large tulips to flower, Tulipa 'Apricot Emperor' is a magnificent Fosteriana Tulip that produces enormous goblet-shaped blooms in soft shades of warm apricot, peach and creamy yellow, bringing a gentle glow to the early spring garden.

A beautiful sport of the celebrated 'Red Emperor' (Madame Lefeber), this exceptional variety shares the outstanding vigour, large flower size and reliability that have made Fosteriana tulips favourites with gardeners worldwide. As the flowers mature, their silky petals gently change in colour, blending delicate apricot and peach tones with creamy highlights, making every bloom subtly unique.

Flowering in early to mid-spring, 'Apricot Emperor' stands proudly on sturdy stems above attractive broad grey-green foliage. The impressive blooms open wide in sunshine, revealing golden centres that attract early pollinating insects while creating a spectacular display in borders, containers and cutting gardens.

Fosteriana tulips are renowned for their excellent perennial qualities and are among the most dependable tulips for returning year after year when grown in well-drained soil. The soft, sophisticated colouring of 'Apricot Emperor' combines beautifully with Muscari, white Narcissi, Hyacinths and other spring bulbs, creating elegant planting schemes full of warmth and harmony.

A refined and timeless tulip that brings beauty, strength and exceptional garden performance to every spring display.

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant Tulipa 'Apricot Emperor' bulbs in autumn, ideally between September and November, once the soil has cooled but before it freezes.

Where to Plant:
Choose a sunny position with fertile, well-drained soil. Fosteriana Tulips are ideal for borders, large containers, formal bedding and naturalistic drifts.

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant bulbs approximately 15 cm (6 inches) deep.
• Spacing: Space bulbs 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) apart.
• Soil Prep: Improve heavy soils with grit or sharp sand to improve drainage, and incorporate compost or well-rotted organic matter before planting.

Watering:
Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the bulbs. During spring, rainfall is usually sufficient, although containers may require occasional watering during prolonged dry spells.

Aftercare Tips:

• Remove faded flowers to prevent seed production.
• Allow the foliage to die back naturally before removing it so the bulbs can store energy for the following year.
• Leave bulbs undisturbed wherever possible, as Fosteriana tulips often return reliably for many seasons.

Top Tip:
Plant with blue Muscari, white Narcissus or soft pink Hyacinths to beautifully complement the warm apricot tones and create a classic spring display.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:

March – April (depending on season and conditions)

Height:
14–18" (35–45cm) (approx.)

Position:
Full sun

Hardy Perennial (one of the best tulip groups for reliable perennial performance in well-drained soil)