Tulipa Pretty Woman

Graceful, elegant and wonderfully sophisticated, Tulipa 'Pretty Woman' is one of the finest Lily-flowered Tulips, producing slender, pointed petals of rich scarlet-red that gently arch outwards to create a beautifully refined silhouette.

Flowering in late spring, the tall, elegant blooms stand proudly on strong stems, adding height, movement and striking colour to borders and containers. As the flowers mature, the pointed petals open wider, giving the blooms an almost flame-like appearance that dances in the breeze.

Awarded the prestigious RHS Award of Garden Merit (AGM), 'Pretty Woman' is celebrated for its reliability, excellent garden performance and outstanding beauty. Its vivid scarlet flowers combine beautifully with whites, purples and deep burgundy tulips, while also making exceptional long-lasting cut flowers.

Perfect for formal planting schemes, cottage gardens or contemporary borders, this elegant tulip brings timeless style to the late spring garden and is a favourite among both gardeners and florists.

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant Tulip bulbs in autumn, ideally from October to December, once the soil has cooled. This helps reduce the risk of tulip diseases and encourages strong root development before winter.

Where to Plant:
Choose a sunny position with fertile, well-drained soil. Tulips are perfect for borders, containers, formal displays and cutting gardens. Avoid areas where water may sit during winter.

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant bulbs approximately 15 cm (6 inches) deep.
• Spacing: Space bulbs about 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) apart.
• Soil Prep: Improve soil with garden compost. In heavier soils, add grit or sharp sand to improve drainage.

Watering:
Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil. Once established, tulips usually require little additional watering except during prolonged dry periods in spring.

Aftercare Tips:

• Remove faded flowers to prevent seed production.
• Allow the foliage to die back naturally until it turns yellow, feeding the bulb for the following year.
• Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring as new growth appears for the best flowering performance.

Top Tip:
Plant in bold groups of at least 10 bulbs to create a dramatic display of elegant scarlet flowers. 'Pretty Woman' also combines beautifully with white tulips or blue-flowering spring bulbs for a striking colour contrast.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:

May (depending on season and conditions)

Height:
20–24" (50–60cm) (approx.)

Position:
Full sun

Hardy Perennial