These whimsically-shaped, unusually-colored tulips have been developed from mutations of certain late-flowering tulips, and from tulips in the Triumph group. The petals of these tulips are serrated or 'fringed'. As the large flowers are exposed to the sun over time, they open so wide that they almost flatten out.

• The flowers are green as buds, and as they grow it may seem as if the tulips will remain entirely green forever. But as the flower matures and opens, resembling a parrot's plumage, the brilliant colors are revealed. This is when their black, star-shaped center and their bright yellow stamens become apparent.
• Some varieties are known as 'bicolored', but are actually 'tricolored' because of their ever-present green color.
• Blooming in late spring, Parrots Tulips grow up to 14-26 inches tall (35-65 cm) to create dazzling harmonies with other late season flowering bulbs.
• They perform best in full sun in rich, fertile, medium moisture, well-drained soils. Prefer areas with cool winters and warm, dry summers.
• Easy to grow, these tulips are welcomed additions to beds, borders, containers. For best visual impact, plant in groups (at least 10 to 15 bulbs) or mixed with any other flowering bulbs. Excellent as cut flowers!
• Although the stems of Parrot tulips are fairly strong, the great size of their flowers prompts one to plant them in sheltered spots in the garden. The flowers are somewhat sensitive to the effects of long-lasting cold and wet weather.
• To be planted in fall.
• Eating may cause severe discomfort and may cause a skin allergy.

A symbol of spring, tulips are the most popular spring bulbs and most gardeners reserve them a spot in the garden or in containers. Grown for their attractive, vibrantly colored flowers, there are currently over 3,000 registered varieties, which are divided into fifteen groups, mostly based on the flower type, size and blooming period of the tulip.