Not only is the Topwhite superb in color, but with a long supply period, and a vase life of 7 to 10 days it also has a number of other clear advantages. The bulb is suitable for outdoor cultivation. This slower method results in a sturdier tulip. Growth is also at a minimum after cutting. 

There are a number of other white, single tulips ‘White Dream’ being the largest. There are further 5 varieties available, ‘Inzell’, ‘Silver Dollar’, ‘Coquette’, ‘Silentia’, ‘Snowstar’ to complete the range.

About 400 years ago the herbalist Clusius brought tulip bulbs from Turkey to Leiden, where they first flowered in the local Hortus Botanicus (botanical gardens). Clusius was the prefect of the Hortus Botanicus responsible for both the introduction and propagation of tulips. Perhaps he knew then that ‘his’ flower would become the symbol of the Netherlands?

Additional editorial information

Supply

• Supply is from January to mid April with a peak in February and March.
• Sorted by length and weight.
• Supplied in tulip containers (without water) in bunches of 10 stems.
• Labeling is compulsory.
• Check for maturity.       

Care Tips

• Check the flowers for ‘spotting’ (Botrytis).
• Store tulips vertically to stop them from growing in a curve.
• Store tulips at 36 and 41ºF.
• On arrival in shop it is advisable to leave tulips wrapped for an hour while they hydrate. 
• Cut 1 inch off the ends of the stems, and put the flowers in clean water.
• Cut flower food will help the flowers open better, and increase their vase life.
• In general, the heavier the flower, the better it will open.
• Drooping tulips should be cut again, wrapped in plastic/paper, and left in water for a few hours to recover.
• Once a vase of tulips has settled, avoid rearranging as the flowers will fall in all directions.
• When using in an arrangement, remember that tulips continue to grow in the vase.       

Background

Tulips were discovered in the 16^thCentury in Turkey, but many varieties actually originated from North Africa, Western, Central Asia and Europe.