Tulips are among the most popular spring flowers in the world, originally native to Central Asia and brought to Europe in the sixteenth century. The Netherlands became the epicenter of tulip culture, and during the famous "Tulip Mania" of the 1630s, single bulbs sold for more than the price of a house. Today, over 3,000 registered varieties exist in nearly every color except true blue. Tulip forms range from simple single cups to fringed, parrot, double, and lily-flowered types.
Tulips are a declaration of love. In the language of flowers, a red tulip is a confession of perfect love, while yellow tulips represent cheerful thoughts and sunshine. Purple tulips symbolize royalty and elegance, white tulips convey forgiveness and worthiness, and pink tulips express affection and caring. Tulips are the birth flower for those born in the spring months and the traditional flower for eleventh wedding anniversaries.
Cut tulips are unique in that they continue to grow in the vase, sometimes adding an inch or more in height after cutting. They also bend toward light, giving arrangements a natural, relaxed look over time. Use a clean vase with cool water and a small amount of flower food. Trim stems straight across rather than at an angle. Tulips prefer cold water and cool room temperatures. Adding a few ice cubes to the water can help extend their life. Avoid placing tulips near heat sources or in direct sunlight. They typically last five to seven days as cut flowers.
Tulips are the quintessential spring arrangement flower. A simple bunch of same-color tulips in a clear vase is one of the most elegant and modern floral displays you can create. They also mix beautifully with daffodils, hyacinths, and ranunculus in seasonal bouquets. Tulips are popular for Easter, Mother's Day, and spring wedding designs. At Keith Wheeler's Flowers, we look forward to tulip season every year and stock a wide selection of colors and varieties for our Simpsonville and Mauldin customers.