Tulipa crispa 'Esprit'

The Double Fringed 'Esprit' Tulip will delight lovers of unusual and variegated flowers. This large multicoloured and pastel tulip, difficult to find in stores, is a true marvel for the garden and bouquets: its large fringed-edged flowers gather different shades of yellow, green, pink, and orange, randomly distributed, in a sparkling chromatic marriage. Alone or combined with varieties in more neutral tones, this variety, synonymous with gaiety tinged with a hint of insolence, will beautifully close the tulip season.

The 'Esprit' Double- Fringed Tulip belongs to the Liliaceae family. Of horticultural origin, it is currently classified in the 'Crispa' group, whose main characteristic is to have finely fringed petals. This tulip will reach a height of 45cm (18in) when in bloom, which is a good size for varieties in its category. The flowering takes place in May, a little later than that of other tulips. The flowers are very double, with a round and full cup shape, and measure up to 6cm (2in) wide. Each one is different, but the overall mix is a combination of delicate and highly contrasting colours; the petals are flamed with pale yellow, orange, pink, fuchsia, and green. The finely fringed edges of this tulip are almost white. The flowers last a long time in the garden as well as in a vase and allow the tulip season to be extended until May.

Double Fringed tulips are appreciated for their sturdy stems that give them good support even in hot weather. The Double Fringed 'Esprit' tulip is planted in mass, or mixed with other varieties, in large flowerbeds. Combine it with plants with foliage (Cachrys, fennel) and other tulips, earlier ones, white, yellow, or soft orange, that will not overshadow its unique colour and will maximize the duration of flowering in the flower beds. It can also be placed along borders, rockeries, as well as in pots and containers. This tulip beautifully enhances balconies and terraces. It pairs perfectly with tall perennials like peonies, biennials like forget-me-nots, spireas, as well as small ground cover plants: lungworts, wall bellflowers, Aubrietas, and silver baskets will serve as a setting and conceal yellowed leaves in summer.