Tulipa Cilesta- Double Early Tulip

The 'Cilesta' Early Double Tulip is a variety of tulip with peony-like appearance, two-toned. It stands out with its double and fully open flowers, with bright and deep red petals, bordered by vibrant yellow. They are arranged in overlapping layers, giving the flower a lush and full appearance. Of medium size, carried by a sturdy stem, it enlivens borders and bouquets, after the flowering of early single tulips.

The 'Cilesta' Early Double Tulip belongs to the Lily family. Originally horticultural, native to the Netherlands, it is currently classified in the group of early double tulips, whose main characteristic is to bloom at the same height, making it a popular category for enthusiasts of well-organised flower beds. The 'Cilesta' Early Double Tulip has a medium height, reaching about 40 centimetres (16 inches) in height. Its sturdy and straight stems gracefully support the magnificent flowers, which emerge above the dark green lanceolate foliage. Its round and full flowers are a beautiful bright red, with numerous petals ending in vibrant yellow. The flowering takes place in April, in the heart of the tulip season. Its flowering period is relatively short but intense. Each flower usually measures between 8 and 10 centimetres (3 and 4 inches) in diameter.

Like most tulips, the 'Cilesta' Early Double Tulip prefers well-drained and sunny soils. These tulips are known to be hardy and easy to grow, making them perfect for beginner gardeners. They are among the most used varieties for cut flowers, so plant some extra to fill your vases. They make beautiful potted plants and harmoniously blend with other spring bulbs. They can be paired with hyacinths, daffodils, or grape hyacinths to create stunning floral arrangements. It is also beautiful when planted in flower beds or borders, in combination with other tulips in complementary, red, yellow, or orange colours, or contrasting ones. Finally, pair it with perennials that hide its withered foliage, such as perennial geraniums, euphorbias, carex.

Regarding botanical species: Wild tulips are found from Western Europe to China and Japan, through Eastern Europe, Asia Minor, Central Asia. Their distribution area also includes North Africa and the Indian subcontinent. The centre of diversity of the genus is located in the Pamir and Hindu Kush mountains and the steppes of Kazakhstan.

In Europe, there are various wild species, many of which are endangered. These are either large tulips that grow in cultivated fields, the most well-known being the Agen tulip (Tulipa agenensis), or small tulips found in wooded areas or on rocky slopes, in the mountains. In cultivation, they are called "botanical tulips," and one of the most common is the wood tulip (Tulipa sylvestris), which used to often grow under the protection of vines, and whose subspecies australis is known as the southern tulip.