Tulipa crispa Match Point

Tulip 'Match Point' blooms in April-May, on short but sturdy stems that hold up well in the garden and in vases. Its magenta-pink colour, tinged with purple, dazzles in the light as soon as the first warm days of spring arrive. Its large, double flowers, adorned with beautiful fringed edges, stand out in flower beds.

Tulipa 'Match Point' belongs to the Liliaceae family. Of horticultural origin, it was born in the millennium. It is currently classified in the 'Crispa' group, whose main characteristic is to have finely toothed petal edges. This tulip will reach a height of 30 to 35cm (12 to 14in) when in bloom. Flowering takes place in late April-early May, a little later than other tulips. The flowers are double, with round and full cups, spreading at maturity to reveal their centre. At the opening, the petals house some small green flames on the outside, as well as some traces of violet, which then disappear to make way for an intense magenta-purple colour. The intensely fringed edges of this tulip are almost white, as if adorned with small frost crystals. The flowers last a long time in the garden as well as in vases, thus extending the tulip season until May.

These tulips are appreciated for their sturdy stems, which give them good support even in hot weather. 'Match Point' looks wonderful when planted en masse, or mixed with other varieties, in large flower beds. Combine it with earlier tulips in shades of white, violet, or soft pink to lengthen the flowering period. It can be used in a border, in rockeries, in pots, and containers. This tulip beautifully enhances balconies and patios. It pairs perfectly with tall perennials like peonies, shrubs like hydrangeas and rhododendrons, as well as low-growing plants. Lungworts, wall bellflowers, aubrietas, and silver baskets can hide the tulip's yellowed leaves in summer.