Tulip 'Sunset Frill'

Tulip 'Sunset Frill' is not shy about making an entrance, unfurling in glowing layers of yellow, tangerine and ember red, with extravagant fringed edges that look as though each petal has been delicately snipped by a very enthusiastic couturier. The outer petals bring streaks of green and coppery flame, while the ruffled yellow rim catches the light like a spring sunset caught mid-applause. In borders, Tulip 'Sunset Frill' gives late spring a delicious burst of warmth, especially among blue muscari, violet wallflowers or fresh lime-green foliage. Plant it where the texture can be admired close up, because this is a tulip with details worth pausing for.

Despite its theatrical frills, Tulip 'Sunset Frill' is wonderfully easy to place, bringing height, structure and a lively painterly finish to pots and sunny borders. Its strong stems hold the substantial blooms neatly above broad green leaves, so the whole display feels polished rather than unruly. Try Tulip 'Sunset Frill' in generous groups for a molten ribbon of colour, or combine it with deep purple tulips and soft apricot narcissi for an opulent late-spring scheme. Cut a few stems for the house and Tulip 'Sunset Frill' becomes a vaseful of sunshine with a mischievous fringe, brightening the room without the slightest need for subtlety.