Description

Tulip Cairns is an elegant double fringed tulip with densely layered petals in a soft rose-lavender tone, each delicately edged with a fine, crystalline fringe. The blooms are large and full, combining peony-style structure with the added texture of a feathered petal margin. Flowering in mid to late spring (late April to early May), it reaches 40–50 cm in height and offers exquisite visual detail and textural contrast to formal beds, romantic borders, and premium floral displays.

Best grown in full sun in fertile, well-drained soil with good airflow. Cairns thrives in estate gardens, wedding-focused plantings, or contemporary displays where subtle tone and petal texture are emphasised. Its lavender-pink tones pair effortlessly with white tulips like Snow Crystal or deep companions like Tulip Black Hero or Ronaldo.

The unique fringe makes this variety particularly effective in morning or evening light, where backlighting highlights each filament along the petal edge. In containers, it provides a standout focal point, while in mixed beds, it adds rich texture to smooth-bloomed companions.

While not a high nectar source, its semi-open form can offer occasional access for hoverflies. For biodiversity planting, surround with early perennials or nectar-rich underplantings.

Excellent as a cut flower and a designer’s choice for late spring structure.