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The Fascinating World of Tulips: Cultivating Historic Varieties
When planting a garden, most enthusiasts aim to set the stage for their plants to thrive independently. The principle of “right plant, right place,” popularized by the celebrated gardener Beth Chatto, serves as a guiding philosophy for many. However, tulips often defy this norm, especially for those who do not reside in the well-drained, elevated environments where many tulip species naturally grow. Historically, tulips have been associated with luxury, particularly since their heyday in 17th century Holland, and are often regarded as requiring extensive care. Their reputation for being short-lived—due in part to conditions like tulip fire, a destructive fungal disease—adds to this perception.
Despite the growing popularity of smaller, hardier tulip species known for their ability to naturalize and reliably return each year, the allure of Historic Tulips remains compelling for certain gardeners. These historic varieties, which include Dutch Breeder and Broken types, as well as the extremely rare English Florists’ tulips, draw enthusiasts for various reasons. One such individual is Britt Willoughby, a contributing photographer who shares her passion for these exquisite blooms.
Photography by Britt Willoughby.
In Britt’s cottage garden in Gloucestershire, she showcases a vibrant display of Dutch Historic tulips. An exhibition of her art prints, featuring the intricate beauty of tulips, is currently on view until February at Thyme in Southrop, Gloucestershire. Among her collection are platinum prints, a treasured photographic technique originating in the 19th century, valued for its lush visual impact. Britt notes the historical connection, stating, “The platinum process began when English Florists’ tulips were being bred,” underscoring her choice to apply this classic technique exclusively to these rare, contemporary subjects. In contrast, Dutch historics were excluded due to their distinct historical context. Britt also offers a limited edition, hand-set and printed two-volume book produced by Rooksmoor Press in Stroud, further reflecting her meticulous approach to artistic detail while capturing the fleeting beauty of tulips as they begin their delicate decline soon after blooming.
By cultivating her collection of rare English Florists’ tulips in pots, Britt achieves greater control over their growth. These tulips have smaller bulbs compared to their Dutch counterparts, which lends to a more manageable garden experience.
The phenomenon of flaming and feathering in tulips, which results from a virus, adds an element of complexity and excitement to their cultivation. When a tulip begins to “break,” it can evoke both wonder and concern. Each day brings changes, and the spread of the distinctive markings enhances their visual appeal.
One example of this is found in Britt’s garden, where a broken tulip will be isolated from the rest after its vibrant transformation has completed. The Tulip Breaking Virus, identified in the 1920s, presents a more practical explanation for the striking patterns on certain flowers. “It can happen at any time,” Britt explains, noting that her initial inexperience resulted in many of her Dutch bulbs breaking. Over time, the virus can weaken affected bulbs, necessitating their separation to prevent further disease spread.
Currently, Dutch historics that exhibit such feathering and flamed characteristics are available in the market and are referred to as Rembrandts. Britt sources her bulbs, including those in solid colors, from Jacques Amand.
English Florists’ tulips are traditionally showcased in beer bottles during events like the Wakefield and North of England Tulip Society Show. These meticulous displays showcase tulips that have been specifically bred for their stunning markings, which are not a result of the Tulip Breaking Virus.
Source
www.gardenista.com