Plant tulip bulbs from October to mid-December, once the weather has cooled. Until then, store them somewhere cool, dry and safely away from mice and squirrels.
'Formosa Red'
Tulip 'Formosa Red' brings a bold and slightly mischievous twist to the spring garden. This striking viridiflora tulip features deep red petals dramatically brushed with dark green flames, creating a painterly contrast that feels both elegant and just a little bit rebellious. The green streaks give it that signature viridiflora charm, while the rich red keeps things warm and grounded. Tulip 'Formosa Red' has a relaxed, slightly flared shape and flowers in late spring—ideal for keeping the seasonal display going long after the early blooms have had their moment.
Reliable and easy to grow, Tulip 'Formosa Red' thrives in a sunny spot with well-drained soil and rewards with blooms that last longer than your average tulip. Its sturdy stems and subtle detailing make it a great choice for borders, cutting gardens, or weaving through wilder planting styles. Tulip 'Formosa Red' pairs beautifully with soft greens, dark foliage, or even pastel pinks for contrast. Whether you're looking to add depth to your tulip mix or simply want something a little different, Tulip 'Formosa Red' ticks all the right boxes.
Quantity
Plant profile
Plant calendar
Choose full sun or partial shade. Improve heavy soil with organic matter and horticultural grit. For containers, use peat-free multipurpose compost with good drainage.
Plant bulbs pointed side upwards, 15–20cm deep and around 10cm apart. You can leave a little more space between them in borders.
Water once after planting to settle the soil. Border-grown tulips rarely need further watering, but containers should be kept lightly moist and never waterlogged.
Remove faded flowers, then allow the foliage to yellow and die back naturally. This helps the bulbs store energy for the following year.
- Botanical name
- Tulipa 'Formosa Red'
- Tulip group
- Viridiflora (8)
- Flower colour
- Red, green
- Bulb size
- 12/+
- Established height
- 30-50cm
- Established spread
- 10-20cm
- Growing skill
- Easy to grow
- Habit
- Upright
- Hardiness
- Fully hardy
- Leaf colour
- Green
- Mouse resistant
- No
- Plant spacing
- 60 bulbs per m2
- Pollinator friendly
- No
- Position
- Sheltered
- Rabbit resistant
- No
- Scented
- No
- Soil acidity
- Any
- Soil moisture
- Free draining
- Soil type
-
Loam
Sandy
Stony
Multipurpose compost
Loam-based compost - Suitable for
-
Pots
Large containers
Borders
Cottage gardens
Low maintenance gardens
Cut flower gardens - Sunlight
-
Full sun
Partial shade - Toxicity
-
Harmful if eaten
Skin/eyes irritant - Years to establish
- 1st year
Expert care from
choice to delivery
Our horticulturalists prepare every bulb and plant with the utmost care. From selection to packing, each one receives expert attention before beginning its journey to your garden.