Tulipa 'Big Smile' is an impressive tall-growing tulip producing large, strong golden-yellow flowers on long, upright stems.

Flowering in May and reaching an impressive 60–90cm tall, it is ideal for adding height and bold late-spring colour to beds and borders. Its long stems and classic flower shape also make 'Big Smile' an excellent cut flower.

• Height: 60–90cm
• Spread: 10–15cm
• Flower colour: golden yellow
• Flowering time: May
• Position: full sun
• Soil: fertile, well-drained soil
• Excellent for: bedding, borders and cut flowers

About Tulipa 'Big Smile'

Tulipa 'Big Smile' lives up to its name with bright, uncomplicated colour and large flowers that make an immediate impact in the late-spring garden.

The blooms are a strong golden yellow throughout, with broad petals forming a classic upright tulip shape. As the flowers mature and open more fully, their rich colouring creates a particularly bright display in sunshine.

One of the main attractions of 'Big Smile' is its height. Growing between 60 and 90cm tall in suitable conditions, the flowers are carried well above the broad green foliage on long, elegant stems.

This makes it particularly useful for adding vertical interest amongst shorter spring bulbs. It can be planted through the middle or towards the back of borders, where the golden blooms will remain clearly visible above surrounding plants.

Flowering in May, 'Big Smile' is also useful for extending the tulip season into late spring.

Benefits for UK Wildlife

The simple, single flowers of Tulipa 'Big Smile' are more accessible to visiting insects than densely double-flowered tulips.

• Flowers may be visited by spring pollinating insects
• Adds floral diversity to late-spring planting
• Combines well with other pollinator-friendly spring flowers

For a more wildlife-friendly display, combine tulips with alliums, muscari and other open flowers that provide a varied supply of pollen and nectar.

Where to Grow Tulipa 'Big Smile'

• Garden beds and borders
• Large spring bedding displays
• Cottage gardens
• Mixed tulip planting
• Large patio containers
• Cut flower gardens

Its height makes 'Big Smile' particularly effective when planted in generous groups through a border. The golden-yellow flowers also combine beautifully with deep purple, burgundy, red and white tulips.

Planting Tips

• Plant bulbs in autumn, ideally during October and November.
• Choose a sunny position with free-draining soil.
• Plant approximately 10–15cm deep.
• Space bulbs around 10cm apart.
• Plant in groups for the strongest visual impact.
• Avoid soil that remains waterlogged during winter.

Because of its tall growth, a position sheltered from the strongest winds will help keep the long flower stems upright and looking their best.

After flowering, remove faded blooms but allow the foliage to yellow and die back naturally before removing it.

Excellent for Cut Flowers

'Big Smile' is an excellent variety for the cutting garden. Its long stems, large blooms and strong golden colouring make it ideal for spring bouquets and arrangements.

For the longest vase life, cut the stems when the buds are fully coloured but have not yet completely opened. The flowers will continue to develop once brought indoors.

Why Grow Tulipa 'Big Smile'

• Strong golden-yellow flowers
• Impressive 60–90cm height
• Excellent for adding height to borders
• Late tulip flowering during May
• Ideal for bedding and mass planting
• Superb long-stemmed cut flower

If you want a tall tulip that delivers plenty of bright spring colour, Tulipa 'Big Smile' is an excellent choice. Its large golden-yellow blooms and long, strong stems create an impressive May display in the garden while also providing superb flowers for cutting.