Tulipa 'Columbus' is a spectacular double tulip producing large, peony-shaped raspberry-pink flowers, beautifully finished with contrasting white edges.
Flowering from mid-April and growing to around 50cm tall, its densely packed blooms create an impressive spring display. 'Columbus' is equally at home in garden borders or patio containers and also makes a superb cut flower.
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Height: about 50cm
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Spread: 10–15cm
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Flower colour: raspberry-pink edged with white
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Flowering time: from mid-April
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Habit: fully double, peony-flowered
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Position: full sun
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Soil: fertile, well-drained soil
About Tulipa 'Columbus'
Tulipa 'Columbus' is a particularly showy variety, combining the extravagant form of a double tulip with a striking two-tone colour combination.
Each substantial bloom is packed with layers of broad, gently curved petals. Rich raspberry-pink dominates the flowers, while the edges of the petals are picked out in pale pink to creamy white. The contrast becomes especially noticeable as the flowers open fully.
The densely layered petals give the blooms their characteristic peony-like shape. From a distance, they can look more like miniature peonies than traditional tulips, particularly when several bulbs are planted together.
The flowers are held above broad green foliage on sturdy stems reaching approximately 50cm tall. Flowering from around mid-April, 'Columbus' provides plenty of colour during the heart of the spring bulb season.
Benefits for UK Wildlife
Double tulips such as Tulipa 'Columbus' are primarily grown for their ornamental flowers. Their densely packed petals make pollen and nectar less accessible to insects than the simpler flowers of single tulips.
- Adds floral diversity and colour to spring planting
- Can be combined with more accessible single-flowered bulbs
- Works well amongst other pollinator-friendly spring plants
For a more wildlife-friendly display, grow 'Columbus' alongside muscari, single tulips and other open spring flowers that provide easier access to pollen and nectar.
Where to Grow Tulipa 'Columbus'
- Spring garden borders
- Patio pots and containers
- Cottage gardens
- Formal bedding displays
- Pink and white planting schemes
- Cut flower gardens
'Columbus' is particularly impressive in containers, where its large double flowers can be appreciated at close range. Plant several bulbs together for a dense display of raspberry and white blooms.
In borders, try combining it with white or pale pink tulips for a coordinated display. Deep purple and burgundy flowers provide a stronger contrast, while blue muscari can create an attractive carpet underneath.
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.
- Protect containers from prolonged winter waterlogging.
The large double blooms can become heavy after prolonged rain, so a reasonably sheltered position will help protect the flowers and keep the stems upright.
After flowering, remove faded flower heads but leave the foliage in place until it has yellowed and died back naturally.
Excellent for Cut Flowers
The large peony-like flowers of 'Columbus' make impressive cut flowers. The raspberry-pink petals and contrasting pale edges are particularly attractive when viewed up close in a vase.
Cut the stems when the buds are showing plenty of colour but have not yet fully opened. The flowers will continue to expand indoors, eventually developing their characteristic full, peony-like appearance.
Why Grow Tulipa 'Columbus'
- Large, fully double peony-shaped flowers
- Rich raspberry-pink colouring
- Beautiful contrasting white petal edges
- Flowers from mid-April
- Strong stems reaching around 50cm
- Excellent for garden borders and containers
- Superb cut flower
If you enjoy tulips with big, extravagant flowers, Tulipa 'Columbus' is a standout choice. Its densely packed raspberry-pink petals, delicately edged in white, create luxurious peony-like blooms that make an impressive display in borders, pots and spring flower arrangements.
