Tulipa 'Air'

The Late Single Tulip 'Air' is rare and unlike any other. With its slightly twisted, swollen, somewhat fragmented petals and its silky pink and grey robe adorned with small green flames, it does resemble a parrot tulip to some extent. This watercolour-toned flower is perfect in a romantic bouquet with lilies and the first roses.

The 'Air' Tulip is little known and almost unavailable in horticultural trade. Originally horticultural, introduced in 1998, this variety is a sport of the parrot tulip 'Rai' and is the origin of the better-known variety 'Fresh Air'. Currently classified, depending on the authors, in Division 5, whose main characteristic is late-season flowering, or in the group of parrot tulips. Of medium size, it will reach a height of 40cm (16in) when in bloom. Perched on sturdy stems well above the broadly lanceolate leaves, its large flowers stand out for their size and their fresh colour scheme. The colour palette includes pale pink, some touches of grey-purple, almond green, and spring green. Flowering generally takes place in May-June, making it useful in the garden to bridge the gap between early and early summer blooms.

The 'Air' tulip finds its place in large, well-drained beds, alongside foliage plants (grasses, fennel, lady's mantle) and tulips in pastel colours, such as pink ('Angelique'), orange ('Apricot Parrot'), or mauve ('Shirley'), as well as perennials like peonies or pastel-toned wallflowers. They also help to maximize the duration of flowering in beds. They can be planted in borders, rockeries, flower beds, and even in pots and containers. Consider them for your balconies and terraces. Ideal for creating romantic bouquets, only use very little water in their vase, just a bottom is sufficient. Moreover, if your tulips open too quickly, you can add two to three ice cubes to the vase every day.