Description

ip Purissima, also known as the White Emperor, is one of the most elegant Fosteriana tulips, renowned for its large, pristine white blooms and early flowering. Its broad, goblet-shaped petals open to reveal creamy tones at the base, sometimes blushed with a hint of pale green, creating a serene and luminous effect in the spring garden.

Standing 35–40 cm tall, Purissima is among the earliest large-flowered tulips to bloom, often appearing from March into April. Its strong stems and broad leaves give it resilience against Ireland’s unpredictable spring weather, making it a reliable choice for exposed gardens and civic plantings. In sunlight, the flowers open wide to form near-flat cups, glowing like white stars against the garden backdrop.

While not strongly fragrant, Purissima carries a delicate freshness in sheltered locations. Its open, simple flower form makes it moderately valuable for pollinators, particularly early bees. For gardeners looking to combine biodiversity with visual beauty, it pairs beautifully with species tulips, scilla, and early narcissi to create layered ecological planting schemes.

Plant in autumn in well-drained, fertile soil in full sun or light shade. Purissima is superb in borders, containers, and mass plantings where its clean white tones create a sense of calm and refinement. It partners beautifully with darker tulips like Queen of Night or strong yellows such as Golden Oxford, offering timeless spring combinations.