Spring is in the air, which means that gardens across the country are beginning to bloom. Experienced gardeners know to watch carefully for the arrival of their stunning tulips, as they often have blooms that last for less than one week. Despite their short duration, the beautiful color of this flower continues to entice people around the world.

The flower actually originated in central Asia, when it was then transported to Turkey. Tulips remain very popular in these areas, as it is considered a national flower in Afghanistan and Turkey. The word ‘tulip’ actually can trace its origins back to the Persian word for turban. Some believe this is because the tulip itself resembles the headgear while others point out that it was once popular to put tulips in turbans and it may have been a translation error.

Whatever the reason may be for why we refer to the bloom as a ‘tulip’, there is no mistaking the flowers unique beauty and rich color. As the flower continued to spread west, it eventually caught the attention of Flemish botanist Carolus Clusius, who cultivated the flowers and even created some of his own varieties. Today there are over 150 different species of tulips and over 3000 varieties. There is a Dutch organization that maintains a list of all the registered tulip varieties.

The popularity of the flower in Europe ushered in one of the first ‘speculative bubbles’, known as ‘tulip mania’, where people intensely sought the bulbs for these incredible flowers. The speculation only lasted a few years, but the popularity of the flower has remained.

Today people enjoy planting tulips in their gardens or bringing the cut flowers inside to add some light to their homes. At Julia’s Florist, we enjoy helping people add a bit of color to their homes or offices with these lovely flowers. Here are two of our favorite arrangements.

Tulips Together

Tulips themselves come in several magnificent colors. This arrangement includes the stunning reds, yellows, and purples in a bouquet that brings the beauty of spring to the home.

Tulips Together

Springtime Splendor

This arrangement brings the boldness and light of yellow right to the forefront with yellow gerbera daisies and gorgeous yellow tulips. The two flowers are gently complemented by white hydrangea to perfectly match the welcome spring deserves.

Springtime Splendor

Tulips are a wonderful flower for welcoming the beauty of spring. Those who love the beauty of the season should look for ways to use it outdoors and inside to make their day even brighter.