Tulip 'Rasta Parrot' (5 Bulbs)

Lily Flowered Tulip

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34467
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At a Glance

Tulip 'Rasta' - Premium Darwin Hybrid Tulip

 

Overview

The Tulip 'Rasta' is a striking Darwin Hybrid variety that brings bold, tropical-inspired colours to your spring garden. This distinctive cultivar features vibrant petals with dramatic colour transitions that create an eye-catching display, making it perfect for gardeners seeking something truly unique amongst their spring bulbs.

 

Key Features

Botanical Name: Tulipa 'Rasta'
Type: Darwin Hybrid
Flowering Period: Mid to late spring (April-May)
Height: 45-55cm (18-22 inches)
Spread: 10-15cm (4-6 inches)
Hardiness: Fully hardy (RHS H7)

 

Flower Characteristics

The 'Rasta' tulip produces large, cup-shaped blooms with exceptional colour intensity. The petals display a mesmerising blend of deep burgundy-red edges that gradually transition to golden-yellow centres, creating a flame-like effect. Each flower measures approximately 8-10cm across when fully open, with sturdy, well-formed petals that maintain their colour brilliantly throughout the flowering season.

 

Growing Requirements

Soil Conditions

  • Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile soil
  • pH Level: Neutral to slightly alkaline (6.0-7.5)
  • Drainage: Essential - tulips will not tolerate waterlogged conditions

Planting Guidelines

  • Planting Depth: 15-20cm deep (three times the bulb height)
  • Spacing: 10-15cm apart
  • Best Planting Time: October to December
  • Aspect: Full sun to partial shade (minimum 6 hours direct sunlight)

Care Instructions

  • Watering: Moderate during growing season; allow to dry after flowering
  • Fertilising: Apply balanced fertiliser in early spring as shoots emerge
  • Aftercare: Allow foliage to die back naturally for 6-8 weeks after flowering

 

Garden Uses

The Tulip 'Rasta' excels in various garden settings and planting schemes:

  • Border Displays: Creates stunning focal points in mixed perennial borders
  • Container Gardening: Ideal for large pots and planters on patios
  • Cut Flowers: Long-lasting stems perfect for indoor arrangements
  • Mass Planting: Plant in groups of 15-20 bulbs for maximum impact
  • Naturalising: Suitable for informal garden areas and meadow-style plantings

 

Companion Planting

'Rasta' tulips pair beautifully with:

  • White or cream narcissus for contrast
  • Purple muscari for complementary colours
  • Yellow primrose and polyanthus
  • Early-flowering perennials like pulmonaria
  • Ornamental grasses for textural interest

 

Maintenance and Longevity

As a Darwin Hybrid, 'Rasta' tulips are more perennial than many other varieties, often returning reliably for several years. To encourage longevity:

  • Deadhead spent flowers but leave stems intact
  • Allow leaves to photosynthesize for at least six weeks
  • Divide and replant every 3-4 years if flowering diminishes
  • Apply mulch in winter for additional protection

 

Wildlife Value

These tulips provide valuable early nectar for bees and other pollinators when few other flowers are available. The large, open blooms are easily accessible to various beneficial insects, supporting garden biodiversity during the crucial spring period.

Storage and Handling

If purchasing bulbs separately, store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area until planting time. Inspect bulbs before planting and discard any that feel soft or show signs of rot. Handle carefully to avoid damaging the papery outer skin.

Expected Delivery: Bulbs typically available September-November for autumn planting.

Buying Bulbs from Jacksons Nurseries

Bulbs are supplied either in pre-packaged retail packs or in some cases they are loosly picked and sent bagged.

 
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