Tulip Merlot

Tulip Merlot – is a lily flowered tulip, it has long elegant petals of deep purple that seem to change colour in different lights. At the base they are almost blue. Tulip Merlot have a good sturdy stem and remain upright, unlike some of the longer lily flowering tulips. This is certainly one of our regular favourites.

What are Lily Flowered Tulips?

Lily flowered tulips are hybrids, they produce slender flowers, often with recurving, pointed petals. The stems are not very sturdy, making them prone to wind damage, so they are best planted in a sheltered position. Like most tulips, they bloom best the first year after planting. They will often bloom again in the second year, but with smaller and fewer flowers.

How to plant tulip bulbs

You can plant Tulip Merlot bulbs in many different soil types, but they will do best in well draining soil. Plant the bulbs approximately 10cm deep and 8-10 cm apart. They will grow in full sun or semi shade but if you are planting in pots don’t let the soil dry out during spring. Make sure you have plenty of room for the roots. Avoid using just compost to fill the pots, mix in some grit and garden soil with some large stones or broken pots at the bottom.

Read why it is often recommended that tulip bulbs are replaced each year.