Black Parrot is a stunning heirloom tulip that brings gothic drama to spring gardens with its deeply fringed, plum-black petals that seem almost obsidian in their depth. Growing to a compact 20 inches tall in hardiness zones 4, this cultivar thrives in full sun and produces the kind of striking blooms that stop visitors in their tracks. The ornate ruffle form and rich, dark color make it a breathtaking choice for gardeners seeking an all-black flower garden or simply a touch of theatrical elegance; it's equally at home in landscape beds, containers, or as a cut flower that commands attention indoors.
Partial Shade
Moderate
4-4
20in H x ?in W
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Moderate
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The deeply fringed, plum-black petals unfold into an ornate, ruffled form that reads almost black against the light, creating a dramatic focal point no other tulip quite matches. At 18 to 20 inches tall, the stems are long and sturdy enough for cutting and arranging, making this a phenomenal choice for both garden drama and floral design. The compact growth habit keeps it tidy in borders and containers, while the robust color and texture hold their presence even when planted en masse.
Black Parrot is grown primarily as an ornamental flowering plant for spring garden displays, container plantings, and landscape design. Its striking color and dramatic petal form make it a favorite for gothic-themed gardens and all-black flower designs where the goal is maximum visual impact. The long, sturdy 18 to 20-inch stems also make it an excellent choice for cutting and bringing indoors; florists and garden arrangers prize it for its architectural presence and ability to add depth and elegance to spring bouquets and floral designs.
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Black Parrot bulbs are planted directly outdoors in autumn. Plant when soil temperature has dropped to 55°F or cooler and nighttime temperatures consistently fall to 40 to 50°F, but before the ground freezes. Plan planting about 5 to 6 weeks before the first hard freeze. Bulbs ship from late September through November, aligning with ideal planting windows across most growing regions.
Plant bulbs directly into garden soil or containers in autumn, spaced approximately 1 inch apart for dense displays. Ensure soil is cool (55°F or below) and drainage is good to prevent bulb rot.
For cut flowers, harvest stems when the blooms are just opening or in bud stage, cutting at the base of the stem early in the morning. The deeply fringed, plum-black petals will continue to unfurl in the vase, providing days of ornamental display. Cut flowers reach their peak beauty within 24 to 48 hours of cutting and can last 7 to 10 days in fresh water kept at 32 to 35°F.
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“Black Parrot carries the heirloom designation, signaling its long journey as a treasured garden variety. It belongs to the Parrot class of tulips, known for their distinctively frilled and feathered petals that set them apart from the neat, cup-shaped forms of standard tulips. The exact origins of this particular cultivar are shrouded in the broader history of Parrot tulips, which have been developed and refined over centuries; what we know is that Black Parrot has earned its place as a highly sought-after favorite among gardeners and florists who understand that true black flowers are rare and precious in the garden world.”