Tulipa 'Willemsoord' is a striking compact tulip producing large, double flowers in rich carmine red, beautifully highlighted by contrasting white edges. The densely layered petals create full, rounded blooms with an almost peony-like appearance, bringing a bold splash of colour to the garden in late April.

Reaching only around 25cm tall, 'Willemsoord' is particularly useful where taller tulips might struggle. Its short, sturdy growth makes it ideal for pots, tubs, window boxes and exposed gardens, as well as creating colourful displays towards the front of beds and borders.

• Flower colour: carmine red edged with white
• Height: approximately 25cm
• Flowering time: late April
• Group: Double Early tulip
• Flower type: large, fully double blooms
• Position: full sun
• Soil: fertile, well-drained soil
• Planting time: autumn
• Suitable for: pots, tubs, window boxes, borders and exposed gardens

About Tulipa 'Willemsoord'

'Willemsoord' combines the bold colouring of a red tulip with the elaborate form of a double variety. Numerous overlapping petals form substantial flowers, with the carmine-red colouring broken by fine white edging and markings that emphasise the shape of the individual petals.

As the flowers open, they become broader and fuller, revealing the intricate arrangement of petals within. Planted in groups, the result is a dense display of red and white that stands out particularly well against fresh spring foliage.

Compact and Sturdy

At approximately 25cm tall, 'Willemsoord' is considerably shorter than many traditional tulips. This makes it an excellent choice for exposed positions where taller varieties can become damaged or bent by spring winds.

The compact habit also makes it useful at the front of borders and alongside paths, where its flowers can be viewed easily. For maximum impact, plant the bulbs in groups rather than scattering individual plants throughout a larger border.

Growing Tulipa 'Willemsoord' in the UK

Plant the bulbs in autumn, ideally between September and November, in a sunny position with fertile, well-drained soil. Tulips dislike persistently wet conditions, particularly during winter, so good drainage is important for healthy bulbs.

Plant bulbs approximately 10–12cm deep with the pointed end facing upwards. Space them around 8–10cm apart in the garden, or slightly closer when planting containers for a denser display.

Water well immediately after planting to settle the soil. Bulbs planted in the ground usually require little additional watering during autumn and winter, while container-grown plants should be checked occasionally to ensure the compost does not become completely dry.

Excellent for Pots and Window Boxes

The naturally short growth of 'Willemsoord' makes it particularly well suited to container growing. Several bulbs planted closely together in a pot or tub will produce a concentrated display of richly coloured double flowers during late April.

It is also an excellent choice for window boxes, where taller tulips can sometimes look out of proportion or be vulnerable to wind. Use a good-quality, free-draining compost and ensure containers have adequate drainage holes.

Using 'Willemsoord' in the Garden

In beds and borders, 'Willemsoord' works particularly well towards the front of planting schemes. Its rich carmine-red flowers can be combined with white tulips and narcissi for a crisp display or contrasted with yellow and orange spring bulbs for a brighter combination.

Its compact growth also makes it suitable for smaller gardens, courtyard planting and raised beds, where there may not be room for taller varieties.

After Flowering

Once the flowers have faded, remove the spent flower heads but leave the stems and foliage intact. Allow the leaves to turn yellow and die back naturally so they can continue feeding the bulbs.

Bulbs growing in well-drained ground can be left in place after flowering. Container-grown bulbs can also be retained, although planting fresh bulbs each autumn generally provides the most reliable display.

Why Grow Tulipa 'Willemsoord'?

• Rich carmine-red flowers edged with white
• Large, densely layered double blooms
• Compact height of approximately 25cm
• Flowers in late April
• Short, sturdy growth suitable for windy gardens
• Excellent for pots and tubs
• Ideal for window boxes
• Perfect for the front of beds and borders
• Bold colour from a relatively small plant

Compact, colourful and packed with petals, Tulipa 'Willemsoord' is an excellent choice for bringing strong late-April colour to smaller spaces. Its combination of carmine-red and white double flowers and sturdy 25cm growth makes it particularly valuable for containers, window boxes and exposed gardens where taller tulips may be less suitable.