Perennial Tulips

Beautiful for borders, clusters in the lawn or a permanent spot where you want to see colour again every spring in April and May.

Are tulips perennial?

Not every tulip is naturally perennial. By perennial tulips, we mean species and selections that can return for several years under the right conditions. That makes them different from many regular tulips, which often flower most strongly in the first year. How well a tulip returns depends on sun, drainage and care after flowering. The bulb has to build up energy again. If the new bulb remains too small, you are more likely to see leaves than flowers the following spring.

Which tulips return best?

You usually have the best chance with botanische tulpen (botanical tulips), also known as naturalising tulips, and with strong single-flowered varieties such as many Darwin hybrids. These groups are known for their vigour and their ability to recover better. For bulbs that can spread and return over the years, explore our verwilderingsbollen. Extra full, double or unusually complex flower forms are often less reliable returners, because they demand more reserves from the bulb.

How to improve the chance of repeat flowering

If you want tulip bulbs to perform as perennials, the planting spot matters. Choose a sunny place with well-drained soil and plant your bulbs in autumn, from September through November. Tulips can still go into the ground until mid-December. For essential aftercare, see bloembollen na de bloei. For step-by-step planting and care tips, visit Tulpen planten en verzorgen. If you see less flowering after a few years, that is normal and you can top up or renew the planting.

Frequently asked questions about perennial tulips

Which tulips are perennial?

Botanical tulips and many strong Darwin hybrids in particular are considered a good choice. If you are looking for perennial tulip bulbs, simple and vigorous varieties usually give you the best chance.

Are tulip bulbs perennial?

Not all of them. Perennial tulip bulbs are selected for a better chance of returning, but the result still depends on the location, soil and care. Some return for one or a few years, while others last longer.

Can I leave spent tulips in the ground?

Yes, you can. Do keep in mind that flowering may be smaller the following year. Good drainage, enough sun and letting the foliage die back naturally increase the chance of new flowers.

Browse Blom's range and choose the perennial tulips that suit your garden, colour preference and way of planting.