About Flowers

Tulip - Tulipa

Tulip
The name tulip comes from the Turkish word ‘dulband’ which means turban, after its rounded form. When the tulip was first introduced to Holland during the 1600s contract prices for tulip bulbs reached extremely high prices and then suddenly crashed. This time was known as tulip mania and at the height of tulip mania bulb prices exceeded the price of precious metals. A single bulb is said to have sold for more than $2000! Because of their high cost they became a symbol for the rich in Holland, as only the very wealthy could afford them. The tulip is a member of the lily family and is very popular in the UK and in great demand all over the world.

There are about 100 species of tulip which can be found in every colour except for blue or black, although some of the dark purple varieties look very close to black. They make an elegant gift with their rounded heads, sleek petals and slim arching stems. As well as classic turban-shaped flowers there are also frilled ‘parrot’ tulips and some varieties are striped or variegated. The tulip French is the largest variety of tulip and is very common.

Flower Symbolism:

Tulips are said to be a token of perfect love, passion, romance, fame and dreaminess. Each colour has a more specific meaning. In the Victorian language of flowers red tulips are a declaration of love, making them an ideal gift for Valentines Day. Pink tulips indicate caring, purple symbolises royalty and fame, and white tulips stand for forgiveness. Yellow tulips mean ‘there’s sunshine in your smile’ and ‘I’m hopelessly in love’, whilst cream coloured tulips mean ‘I will love you forever’. Variegated tulips are sent to say ‘you have beautiful eyes’.