Tulipa Parrot King

Bold, flamboyant and full of character, Tulipa 'Parrot King' is a magnificent Parrot Tulip with enormous, extravagantly ruffled petals in a fiery blend of orange, golden yellow and fresh green. As the flowers mature, the colouring intensifies into a rich, glowing tangerine-orange, creating a spectacular late-spring display.

The petals are deeply feathered, curled and fringed, giving each bloom an almost exotic, sculptural appearance. No two flowers look quite the same, and the green markings that run through the petals provide an especially striking contrast as the blooms open.

Flowering in April and May, 'Parrot King' grows to around 40–45cm and is ideal for borders, patio containers and cutting gardens. The large blooms are particularly impressive when planted in groups, where their dramatic colour and unusual form can really be appreciated.

Like all Parrot Tulips, this variety is also excellent for floral arrangements, where its heavily ruffled petals and vivid colouring make a memorable cut flower.

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant Tulipa 'Parrot King' bulbs in autumn, from September to December. For tulips, planting once the soil has cooled in October or November is ideal where possible. Avoid planting into frozen or waterlogged ground.

Where to Plant:
Choose a sunny or lightly shaded position with fertile, well-drained soil. Parrot Tulips have large, elaborate flowers, so a sheltered position is particularly beneficial to protect the blooms from strong winds and heavy rain.

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant bulbs approximately 15–20cm (6–8 inches) deep, with the pointed end facing upwards.
• Spacing: Space bulbs approximately 10–15cm (4–6 inches) apart.
• Soil Prep: Improve heavy soil with horticultural grit and organic matter to encourage good drainage.
• Containers: Use a good-quality, free-draining compost and ensure pots have adequate drainage holes.

Watering:
Water after planting if the soil is dry. Once planted in the garden, normal autumn and winter rainfall is usually sufficient. Check containers regularly during spring growth and water when the compost begins to dry.

Aftercare Tips:

• Feed with a high-potash fertiliser as shoots emerge in spring.
• Remove faded flowers after blooming to prevent the bulb wasting energy producing seed.
• Allow the foliage to yellow and die back naturally before removing it.
• In heavy or wet soils, bulbs can be lifted after the foliage has died down and stored somewhere cool and dry until autumn.

Top Tip:
Because Parrot Tulips carry such large flowers, plant 'Parrot King' somewhere sheltered from strong winds. Grouping several bulbs together also gives the best impact and really shows off its extraordinary orange, yellow and green colouring.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:

April – May (depending on season and conditions)

Height:
16–18" (40–45cm) (approx.)

Position:
Full sun or light partial shade

Parrot Tulip – Division 10

Hardy Perennial Bulb

Excellent Cut Flower