Tulip Purple Doll

Elegant and quietly dramatic, Tulip 'Purple Doll' is a beautiful lily-flowered variety for anyone after something a little more distinctive. Rich violet-purple, goblet-shaped blooms with pointed, out-curving petals are finished with a fine flame of green on the outer edges — a subtle detail that gives real depth as the flowers catch the light.

A sport of the popular 'Doll's Minuet', Purple Doll flowers in late spring on elegant stems to around 40cm (16"), swaying gracefully in the breeze. Its slender, tapered form makes it a favourite for cutting and formal displays alike, and it pairs beautifully with lighter pastels or crisp whites for contrast.

Plant bulbs in autumn, 10–15cm deep in a sunny, sheltered spot with well-drained soil. Note that, as with all tulips, the bulbs and sap can be harmful if eaten and may irritate skin, so gloves are recommended when handling and planting.

Available from Pengelly Garden Centre.