Single Late Tulips

Single Late Tulips are tall and stately with large flowers held on very strong stems which hold well against the wind. This group was once known as Cottage, Darwin or May-Flowering Tulips. Single Late Tulips are amongst the latest to flower lending their fabulous range of colour to the garden well into May.

Why should you choose single late tulips?

Single late tulips are a superb choice for any garden. These tulips, blooming later in the spring season, extend the flowering period, ensuring your garden remains a vibrant, colourful sanctuary for longer.
The appeal of single late tulips lies in their stately elegance and diversity of colours. Their tall, sturdy stems support large, classic goblet-shaped blooms that sway gracefully in the breeze. The colour palette of these tulips is truly extensive, ranging from rich, deep hues to soft, pastel tones, and even striking bi-colours. This variety allows for endless creative combinations in your garden design.
Single late tulips are also incredibly versatile. Their height and robust structure make them ideal for mixed borders, where they can stand proudly among other spring-blooming perennials. They also perform beautifully in containers, providing a dramatic focal point on patios or terraces. Additionally, their long, strong stems make them excellent candidates for cut flowers, allowing you to bring their elegance indoors.
Another reason to choose single late tulips is their reliability. These tulips are known for their resilience, standing up well to the often unpredictable weather of late spring. Their strong stems and durable blooms ensure they remain looking pristine for longer, providing a dependable and long-lasting display.
Choosing single late tulips means investing in a timeless, elegant addition to your garden that promises to deliver year after year. Their combination of beauty, versatility, and resilience makes them a favourite among gardeners seeking to create a stunning, prolonged display of springtime colour. Embrace the grandeur of single late tulips and let them bring their sophisticated charm to your garden.

Stephen’s single late tulip bulb top picks

Stephen is the 3rd generation of his family to work in the flower bulb industry; he grows hundreds of varieties of new bulbs each year. Here are the single late tulip bulbs that he would recommend you consider for your garden:

Blushing Lady have the most elegant petals you'll see on a tulip in addition to a beautiful blend of apricot, pink and yellow colours.
Blue Aimable is a very late tulip with a stunning shape. It's almost parrot like with its course textures.

Queen of Night is a tulip I can't ignor, one of our most popular tulips for as long as I can remember. There might be darker tulips these days but it remains a classic!

How to plant single late tulip bulbs

Planting single late tulip bulbs is a straightforward yet immensely rewarding task, promising a stunning display of elegant blooms that will grace your garden late into the spring season. Follow these steps to ensure your tulips thrive and flourish.

• Select the ideal location: Single late tulips prefer well-drained soil and a sunny spot, though they can tolerate partial shade. Choose a location that gets plenty of sunlight to help the bulbs develop strong, healthy flowers.
• Prepare the soil: It can help to dig to a depth of about 30cms, loosening the soil to improve drainage and aeration. Mix in some compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the soil, providing essential nutrients that will support robust growth. But only if you have poor soil. 
• Plant the bulbs: Place each bulb about 15cm deep, with the pointed end facing upwards. Space them 10cm apart to give each plant enough room to grow. Planting in clusters or groups will create a more natural and impactful display, allowing the tulips to shine in their full glory.
• Water thoroughly: After planting, water the area well to settle the soil around the bulbs. This initial watering helps establish the bulbs and encourages root development. Keep the soil slightly moist but not waterlogged throughout the growing season to ensure the best results.
• Add a layer of mulch: Applying a light layer of mulch helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and protect the bulbs from harsh winter conditions. This added layer of protection ensures your tulips have the best possible start.
• Monitor and maintain: As the tulips grow, keep an eye on moisture levels. Once the flowers have bloomed and the foliage begins to die back naturally, you can trim away the dead leaves to keep your garden tidy and encourage future growth.

By following these simple steps, you'll create the perfect conditions for your single late tulip bulbs to thrive. This careful preparation will reward you with a magnificent display of stately blooms that will enhance your garden with their timeless elegance year after year. 

Why choose Peter Nyssen bulbs?

• We are a friendly, family-run business with more than 60 years of experience
• We offer bulk prices and free delivery for orders over £100
• We supply flower bulbs in quantities large and small, for all types of gardeners from the cottage potterer to the professional landscaper 
• With a range of colours and varieties available, you'll be spoilt for choice.

FAQs 

When is the best time to plant single late tulip bulbs?

The best time to plant single late tulip bulbs is in the autumn, typically from late September to November, before the first hard frost. Planting in the autumn allows the bulbs to establish strong roots before the winter sets in, ensuring a robust display in the spring.

How can I protect my single late tulips from pests?

To protect your single late tulips from pests such as deer, rabbits, and voles, consider using physical barriers like fencing or netting. You can also use repellents or plant companion plants that deter pests, such as daffodils or garlic. Additionally, placing a layer of sharp gravel or crushed shells in the planting hole can help deter burrowing pests.

Can single late tulips be planted with other types of tulips?

Yes, single late tulips can be planted alongside other types of tulips to create a layered, sequential blooming effect. By mixing early, mid-season, and late-blooming tulips, you can enjoy a continuous display of colour throughout the spring. Just be sure to consider the varying heights and bloom times to design a harmonious garden layout. Consider Double Late Tulips.

How do I care for single late tulips after they have finished blooming?

After single late tulips have finished blooming, allow the foliage to die back naturally. This process helps the bulbs store energy for the next year’s growth. Once the leaves have yellowed and withered, you can remove them. Avoid cutting the foliage too early, as this can weaken the bulbs and reduce flowering in subsequent years.

What are some good companion plants for single late tulips?

Single late tulips pair beautifully with a variety of spring-flowering plants. Consider planting them alongside alliums, irises, and late-blooming daffodils for a stunning, layered effect. Their tall, elegant blooms also contrast well with lower-growing perennials such as forget-me-nots, pansies, and primroses, creating a dynamic and visually appealing garden display.

Need more help?

Single late tulips can reach their full height and bring timeless elegance to your garden when planted correctly. Follow the steps in our comprehensive tulip planting guide to give your bulbs the best chance of blooming to their full potential.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We're here to assist with recommendations for stunning colour combinations, help you determine the right number of bulbs for your space, and address any landscape or trade inquiries you might have. Let us help you create a garden that you will be proud of.