Tulipa Darwin hybrid Orange Balloon

Tulipa 'Orange Balloon' bears enormous globular flowers of a magnificent orange hue, creating a sensational effect in flower beds and bouquets. This recent Darwin hybrid has exceptional qualities. It produces fascinating, thick, long-lasting flowers, whose brilliant orange colour is enriched with red at the centre and base. The edges of the petals are brushed with golden orange. It takes on a peach-pink blush over time. The flowers bloom in the heart of spring, carried by sturdy stems that withstand inclement weather. 

Tulipa 'Orange Balloon' belongs to the Liliaceae family. Of horticultural origin, it was introduced in the Netherlands in 2006. It is currently classified in Division 4, which is characterised by large, single, ovate-shaped flowers that appear in the middle of the season, carried by 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 such as the sturdy T. fosteriana, they show no signs of their wild ancestry. 'Orange Balloon' will reach approximately 48cm (19in) in height when flowering. The flowers sit at the top of sturdy stems, well above the broadly lanceolate leaves. The flowers can measure up to 12.5cm (5in) in height. The rich orange colour is enhanced by the slightly waxy and translucent texture of the petals. The corolla opens to reveal a fiery orange centre. Flowering takes place in April-May, with each flower lasting several days before fading.

Tulipa 'Orange Balloon' works well in large flower beds. Its fantastic colour goes well with tulips in white, red, or even mauve tones. Pair it with snapdragons, lady's mantle, euphorbia, forget-me-nots, and chamomile for stunning scenes. It can also be planted with primroses, Iberis, and sky-blue pansies in borders, rockeries, flower beds, pots, and containers. It pairs perfectly with tall perennials. The cut flowers are ideal for creating colourful bouquets. Only use a little water in a vase. If your tulips open too quickly, you can add two to three ice cubes to the vase each day.