'Apeldoorn' Red Tulip Bulbs, Darwin Hybrid

Tulipa Apeldoorn

Apeldoorn (Tulipa Apeldoorn) is possibly the best-loved classic red tulip, producing huge individual blooms in April/May, dazzling red in colour, on tall strong stems up to 60cm in height.

The cup-shaped flowers are gently triangular when closed, opening to reveal a dark centre. They look stunning in beds, borders and containers, the blooms lasting particularly well - even once cut.

Apeldoorn is a hardy variety that will reliably flower year after year (no need for lifting). It adds a fiery note to our Tulip bulb collection.

This variety is just begging to be let loose in vast swathes, but their strength of character shines whatever quantity you plant. They'll withstand the spring weather, though some protection from the strongest winds is a good idea.

• Height: 50-60cm
• Spread: 20cm
• Single headed stems
• Deep-green foliage
• Darwin Hybrid Group

Plant Care

Tulips like to be planted in the colder weather of October/November. Plant the bulbs 15-20cm deep in well-drained, fertile soil, 10-15cm apart. (If planting in clumps, allow 7-9 bulbs per 30cm square; in pots, a dozen bulbs per 12-inch container will give an excellent display.)

They'll tolerate most soil pH, preferring neutral to slightly acidic, but good drainage is the key. This is especially important in containers; they like moisture, but must not stand in water. Tulips would always choose full sun, but will tolerate partial shade.

Don't feed the plants during the growing season as this will tend to produce leggy growth. If planting in containers, protect the pots from severe frost/wind by wrapping them up in straw or bubble wrap, or simply storing in the garage. Containers must be watered in dry periods leading up to flowering.

Dead-head the flowers once they have faded and remove the seed pod, but don't cut the foliage back until it has died down naturally as this will impede flowering in following years. This variety will continue flowering for many years without lifting.

Plant Care

Keep a watchful eye out for slugs and snails as the plants emerge - take all your usual precautions until they're growing strongly.

Squirrels have a passion for digging up freshly planted tulip bulbs! If you know this will be a problem in your garden, plant them deeper than usual (30cm should foil their efforts), or cover the freshly dug hole with some chicken wire.

History & Trivia

Apeldoorn was introduced 1951. It's a member of the Darwin Hybrid group, known for their regal stature (they're amongst the tallest tulips), their huge blooms in vivid colours and their ability to flower strongly year after year.