Tulips: varieties, meaning and vase care

A bunch of tulips can look quite restrained when it arrives: closed buds, straight stems and only a hint of colour. Then the flowers open and the arrangement changes. That movement is part of their appeal.

From Central Asia to European gardens

Tulips originate from a broad area that includes Central Asia. They became closely associated with Ottoman gardens before reaching western Europe, where the Netherlands developed its famous tulip-growing tradition. The speculative enthusiasm of seventeenth-century “tulip mania” is another chapter in that long history.

There is more than one kind of tulip

• Single tulips have the familiar, clean cup shape.
• Double tulips have fuller flowers, sometimes reminiscent of peonies.
• Parrot tulips have boldly shaped, ruffled petals.
• Fringed varieties have finely textured petal edges.
• Lily-flowered tulips have elegant, pointed petals.

Colour and variety change with market availability. If a particular shade matters to your gift, ask us before ordering rather than assuming every variety is always available.

Why do tulips move in the vase?

Tulip stems can continue to lengthen after cutting and bend towards the light. An arrangement that looks upright on the first day may become looser and more expressive. A clean, sufficiently tall vase gives the stems support without forcing them into an unnatural position.

How to care for cut tulips

Re-cut the stem ends with a clean, sharp tool, remove leaves below the waterline and place the flowers in clean water. Check the water every day: a vase that looked full yesterday may need attention today. Keep it away from direct sun, heaters and ripening fruit.

Vase life varies with the flowers, room temperature and care. Closed buds are normal and can open gradually at home; there is no exact opening time that applies to every bunch.

Choosing tulips in Florence

Tulips are particularly associated with winter and spring, although availability varies. Explore our bouquets or ask which seasonal flowers are available for your date. Fiorit prepares flowers to order in Florence; check delivery and collection conditions before choosing a day.

Frequently asked questions

Is it normal for tulips to arrive closed?

Yes. Their buds can open gradually after they are placed in water.

Can I request a specific tulip variety?

Contact us first. Availability depends on the season and the market, so a particular variety needs confirmation.