La Belle Epoque is a stunning double tulip that rewrites its own story as the season progresses. Starting with coppery peach petals that billow like peonies, the blooms gradually soften to a vintage beige-rose, creating a color-shifting display that unfolds over weeks. Hardy in zones 4 through 3 (sources vary slightly on the lower boundary), this compact cultivar reaches 24 inches tall and thrives in partial shade, though it tolerates full sun in cooler climates. It's an exceptional cut flower with stems long enough to fill a vase beautifully.
Partial Shade
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4-4
24in H x ?in W
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Moderate
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Few tulips offer the theatrical transformation that La Belle Epoque delivers. The double blossoms begin in coppery peach and gradually fade to romantic beige-rose as temperatures cool, creating a living color study in your garden or vase. The peony-like form and 24-inch stems make it a florist-quality cut flower, while its tolerance for partial shade opens possibilities in gardens where most tulips struggle.
La Belle Epoque excels as a cut flower, with stems reaching up to 24 inches tall and lasting exceptionally well in the vase. The peony-like double blooms and color-shifting characteristics make it a standout choice for fresh arrangements, particularly in spring bouquets where its vintage tones complement other flowers. It's equally stunning in garden beds and borders.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Bulbs should be planted when soil has cooled to 55°F (13°C) or cooler and nighttime temperatures consistently drop to 40, 50°F (4, 10°C), but before the ground freezes. Planting 5 to 6 weeks before freeze allows roots to establish. Space bulbs 1 inch apart in well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5, and water thoroughly after planting.
Cut stems when the blooms are fully open or at your preferred stage of color development. The double petals and long 24-inch stems make them excellent for cutting. For optimal vase life, cut in the morning and immediately place in clean water. These blooms will continue to open and shift color in the vase, extending the color-show indoors.
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