Tulipa 'Cherry Delight'

The large, classic-shaped blooms of the 'Cherry Delight' hybrid Darwin Tulip are a bright cherry red, or apple red, adorned with a pink and violet sheen, with a small white base. Belonging to a new line of early-blooming Darwin hybrids with long-lasting flowers, Cherry Delight is a vigorous variety with sturdy, weather-resistant stems. It blooms in the heart of spring. Sculptural in flowerbeds, it is an exceptional flower for bouquets.

The 'Cherry Delight' hybrid Darwin Tulip belongs to the Liliaceae family. Originally of horticultural origin, it is currently classified in Division 4, known for its large, single, oval-shaped flowers that appear in the middle of the season, carried on long, weather-resistant stems. Tulips in this group are the most cultivated for the cut flower trade. Originally derived from cross-breeding with botanical species like T. fosteriana, they show no trace of their wild ancestry. 'Cherry Delight' will reach a height of approximately 55cm (22in) when in bloom. Perched on sturdy stems, well above the broadly lanceolate leaves, the large cup-shaped flowers are elongated, slightly square at the base, elegant, and of a particularly bright and cheerful red. The colour is enhanced by the slightly waxy and thick texture of the petals. The corolla opens, revealing a bright red heart around a white centre. Flowering takes place in April-May, with each flower living for several days before wilting.

The 'Cherry Delight' Tulip finds its place in large flowerbeds, and of course in bouquets. Pair it with white or pink tulips, narcissus, jonquils, hyacinths, or even Alchemilla, Corsican Hellebores, and Euphorbias for stunning scenes. It can also be planted in borders, rockeries, flowerbeds, as well as in pots and containers. This tulip beautifies balconies and terraces very well. It pairs perfectly with tall perennials and is ideal for creating elegant bouquets, for example with white, pink, or mauve lilacs. When in a vase, use very little water, just a small amount is enough! Furthermore, if your tulips open too quickly, you can add two to three ice cubes to the vase each day.

About botanical species: Tulip species are found in most parts of the old world, from Western Europe to China and Japan, including Eastern Europe, Asia Minor, and Central Asia. Their distribution range also includes North Africa and the Indian subcontinent. The centre of diversity for the genus is located in the Pamir and Hindu Kush mountains and the steppes of Kazakhstan.