focal · easy · mid
Tulip
Tulipa · aka single tulip, French tulip
The most-produced cut flower in the world (Netherlands ships 2+ billion stems annually). Tulips are actively alive in the vase — they grow, bend toward light, and open with the day. This movement is a feature, not a defect: modern floristry embraces the natural curve. Double-flowered varieties (peony tulips) can substitute peonies out of season.
At a glance
| Family | Liliaceae |
|---|---|
| Origin | Central Asia; commercial production dominated by Netherlands |
| Peak season | February, March, April, May |
| Availability | November, December, January, February, March, April, May |
| Stem length | 30–60 cm |
| Vase life | 5–7 days |
| Colors | white, cream, yellow, orange, pink, red, purple, black, bicolor |
| Price tier | mid |
Conditioning
Wrap the top third of stems in newspaper and place in cool water for an hour before arranging — this straightens curved stems. Recut on a diagonal.
Care in the vase
- •Tulips grow in the vase — plan for stems to lengthen 2–5 cm after arranging
- •Bend toward light — rotate the vase every 12 hours for even growth
- •Cool water and cool air; heat makes them collapse
- •French tulips (60 cm+ stems) are a separate premium category
Design role & symbolism
Symbolismperfect love, spring, rebirth
Occasionsspring events, birthday, sympathy, wedding
Substitutesranunculus, anemone
seasonalspringmodern
