Tulipa 'Callahan' is a spectacular Double Late Tulip with large, peony-like flowers in an exotic mixture of burnt orange, bronze, copper and apricot-pink.

Flowering in May and growing to around 35–40cm tall, its warm, changing colours make it a superb choice for late-spring borders and containers. The large double blooms are also excellent for cutting.

• Height: 35–40cm
• Spread: 10–15cm
• Flower colour: burnt orange, bronze, copper and apricot-pink
• Flowering time: May
• Group: Double Late Tulip
• Position: full sun
• Soil: fertile, well-drained soil

About Tulipa 'Callahan'

Tulipa 'Callahan' is an unusual tulip that stands out for both the size of its flowers and the complexity of its colouring.

The fully double blooms contain layer upon layer of broad petals, giving them the lush, rounded appearance that has earned Double Late Tulips the alternative name of Peony-flowered Tulips.

Rather than displaying a single uniform colour, 'Callahan' blends a range of warm shades. Burnt orange and copper mingle with bronze, apricot and dusky pink, with individual petals showing subtle variations in tone.

The colours can also develop as the blooms mature, making a group of 'Callahan' particularly interesting as the flowers progress through their display.

Double Late Tulips generally flower later and grow taller than their Double Early counterparts. 'Callahan' blooms during May, making it useful for continuing the tulip season after many earlier varieties have finished.

Benefits for UK Wildlife

Double tulips such as Tulipa 'Callahan' are primarily grown for their ornamental value. Their densely packed petals make the centre less accessible to pollinating insects than the flowers of single tulips.

• Adds floral diversity and colour to late-spring planting
• Can be combined with single-flowered tulips and other accessible flowers
• Works well amongst wildlife-friendly spring perennials

For a more pollinator-friendly display, combine 'Callahan' with alliums and other open spring flowers that offer easier access to pollen and nectar.

Where to Grow Tulipa 'Callahan'

• Spring garden borders
• Patio pots and containers
• Cottage gardens
• Gravel gardens
• Mixed tulip displays
• Cut flower gardens

The complex colouring of 'Callahan' makes it especially good for sophisticated planting combinations. Try it alongside cream, burgundy or deep purple tulips, or combine it with other apricot and copper shades for a warm, coordinated display.

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 positions that remain waterlogged during winter.

The large double blooms can become heavy when filled with rainwater, so planting 'Callahan' in a reasonably sheltered position will help protect the flowers during poor weather.

After flowering, remove faded blooms but leave the foliage until it has yellowed and died back naturally.

Excellent for Cut Flowers

The substantial, peony-like blooms of 'Callahan' make excellent cut flowers. Its mixture of copper, apricot, bronze and pink is particularly effective in arrangements where the subtle variations in colour can be appreciated up close.

Cut stems when the buds are well coloured but only beginning to open. The double flowers will continue to expand once placed in water.

Why Grow Tulipa 'Callahan'

• Large, fully double peony-like flowers
• Unusual burnt orange and copper colouring
• Beautiful bronze and apricot-pink tones
• Flowers during May
• Excellent for borders and containers
• Superb and unusual cut flower

If you are looking for a tulip with unusual colouring, Tulipa 'Callahan' is a particularly attractive choice. Its large, fully double flowers blend burnt orange, copper, bronze and apricot-pink to create a rich late-spring display that looks just as impressive in a vase as it does in the garden.