Tulipa Pieter de Leur

Elegant, vibrant and full of timeless charm, Tulipa 'Pieter de Leur' is a magnificent Lily-flowered Tulip renowned for its rich ruby-red blooms and beautifully refined form. Each flower features gracefully pointed petals that arch outwards as they mature, creating the distinctive lily-shaped silhouette that makes this group so admired.

The brilliant scarlet-red petals are enhanced by deeper burgundy to purple shading along the centre of each petal, adding richness and depth to the flowers. As they open fully in the sunshine, the blooms become even more dramatic, swaying gracefully on tall, slender stems and bringing movement to the late spring garden.

A recipient of the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit (AGM), 'Pieter de Leur' is recognised for its outstanding garden performance, reliability and exceptional beauty. Its elegant flowers make superb cut blooms and are equally at home in borders, large patio containers and formal planting schemes.

Plant in generous drifts to appreciate the graceful habit of this outstanding tulip, where its vivid colouring combines beautifully with white, deep purple or soft apricot tulips for an unforgettable late spring display.

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 strong spring flowering.

Where to Plant:
Choose a position in full sun or partial shade with fertile, well-drained soil. 'Pieter de Leur' is ideal for borders, large patio containers, cutting gardens and formal planting schemes.

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.
• Allow the foliage to die back naturally for at least six weeks after flowering so the bulbs can store energy for the following year.
• Feed with a balanced fertiliser in early spring if growing as a perennial display.

Top Tip:
Pair 'Pieter de Leur' with white Lily-flowered tulips or soft apricot varieties for an elegant display. Its graceful stems and long-lasting blooms also make exceptional cut flowers.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:
May (depending on season and conditions)

Height:
15–18" (38–45cm) (approx.)

Position:
Full sun or partial shade

Hardy Perennial

RHS Award of Garden Merit (AGM)