Tulipa Eternal Flame - - Double Early Tulip

The Double Early Tulip ‘Eternal Flame’ is a valuable spring variety, belonging to the group of double early tulips, renowned for its large scarlet-red flowers evolving from cream and green hues. Its compact and sturdy habit, reaching about 35 to 40 cm, is accentuated by decorative foliage beautifully striated with pinkish-white, extending the ornamental effect even after flowering. It blooms from mid-April, bringing intensity and brilliance to early-season flowerbeds or container plantings. To prevent bulb weakening, it is advisable to protect plantings from stagnant moisture in winter.

The Double Early Tulip ‘Eternal Flame’ belongs to the Liliaceae family and is part of the peony-flowered early tulips group. This horticultural cultivar stands out with its decorative foliage striped in pinkish-white and generous double flowers of deep red with initial shades of pale pink, cream, and green upon opening. The habit is compact and robust, with sturdy stems of 35 to 40 cm in open ground and a spread of about 10 cm. The growth rate is normal to fast: the stem fully develops by mid-spring, after the winter cold period. The plant typically does not produce visible offsets, though bulblets may form after several years. The flowers are double, voluminous with a diameter of 10 cm, displaying an evolving colouration: white-pink tinged with green upon opening, then fiery red at ripeness, structured in layers of tightly packed petals reminiscent of peonies. Flowering occurs early, from mid-April. The foliage is deciduous, lanceolate, silvery-green striated with creamy pink, about 15–20 cm long, often persisting during or after flowering, extending visual interest. The stems are smooth yet sturdy, ensuring good structural support under the heavy flowers. The root system consists of a 12+ calibre bulb (~5–6 cm), with concentric scales, featuring a taproot followed by fasciculate secondary roots ensuring vigorous establishment.

In a well-paced spring display, the ‘Eternal Flame’ tulip embraces density and brilliance, its incandescent red corollas emerging from striated foliage as graphic as it is ornamental. Planted en masse at the front of a flowerbed or in a large container, it captures morning light and adds depth to any structured composition. It pairs beautifully with the ivory pallor of ‘Exotic Emperor’ or the pearly reflections of ‘Foxtrot’, creating a vibrant and sophisticated colour gradient. Combine it with silver foliage like that of artemisia or a fine carex.