Taylors Bulbs Tulip 'Queen Of Night' (6)

An iconic single late tulip and firm favourite with designers and gardeners alike, 'Queen of Night' bears glossy, deep velvety maroon blooms so dark they appear almost black — the darkest of any tulip. Sturdy stems hold the goblet-shaped flowers to around 60cm, making it a striking cut flower and a superb foil for paler tulips such as 'White Triumphator' in borders, pots or cutting gardens.

Plant the bulbs in autumn, ideally October to November, at a depth of 10-15cm in fertile, well-drained soil, in a sunny position sheltered from strong winds and excess winter wet. 'Queen of Night' flowers in late spring and is moderately perennial under good conditions, remaining one of the most sought-after tulips for its unrivalled colour. As with all tulips, the bulbs are harmful if eaten and can cause skin allergies, so gloves are worth wearing when handling.

Supplied as a pack of 6 top-quality bulbs. Each bulb is hand-selected before dispatch. Available from Pengelly Garden Centre.