Tulipa Sweetheart

Delicate, cheerful and full of natural charm, Tulipa 'Sweetheart' is a delightful Fosteriana Tulip that produces elegant, creamy primrose-yellow flowers with broad ivory-white margins. As the blooms open wide in the spring sunshine, they reveal a striking star-shaped flower with a warm golden-yellow centre, creating one of the brightest and freshest displays of the season.

A member of the Emperor (Fosteriana) tulip group, 'Sweetheart' is renowned for its exceptionally large flowers, sturdy stems and excellent reliability. The blooms open fully on sunny days before gently closing again in the evening, adding movement and interest to the garden throughout the flowering period.

Flowering in early to mid-spring, 'Sweetheart' grows to around 35–45cm tall and is perfect for borders, patio containers, naturalistic planting and cutting gardens. Its luminous colouring combines beautifully with blue Muscari, white Narcissus, early flowering Alliums and soft pink tulips, creating fresh and elegant spring displays.

Easy to grow and exceptionally weather tolerant, Tulipa 'Sweetheart' is also an excellent perennial performer in well-drained soil, often returning reliably for several years.

Bright, elegant and full of spring freshness, 'Sweetheart' is one of the finest Fosteriana tulips for bringing light and colour to the garden.

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant Tulip bulbs in autumn, ideally from October to December, once the soil has cooled. Planting later in autumn helps reduce the risk of tulip diseases and encourages healthy spring flowering.

Where to Plant:
Choose a position in full sun or partial shade with fertile, well-drained soil. 'Sweetheart' is ideal for borders, patio containers, naturalised drifts and cutting gardens.

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 compost and, if necessary, add horticultural grit to improve drainage.

Watering:
Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil. Once established, tulips generally only require watering during prolonged dry spells in spring.

Aftercare Tips:

• Remove faded flowers once blooming has finished to prevent seed production.
• Allow the foliage to die back naturally for at least six weeks after flowering so the bulbs can replenish their energy for the following year.
• Feed with a balanced fertiliser in early spring to encourage healthy growth and reliable flowering.

Top Tip:
Plant 'Sweetheart' in generous drifts where its creamy-yellow flowers can open fully in the sunshine. It looks particularly beautiful planted with blue Muscari, white daffodils and other early spring bulbs.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:

March – April (depending on season and conditions)

Height:
14–18" (35–45cm) (approx.)

Position:
Full sun or partial shade

Hardy Perennial

Fosteriana (Emperor) Tulip