Barbados

At first glance, Barbados might seem like a straightforward tulip in deep ruby red. Look closer and the fringed petal edges reveal themselves, delicate, precise, the botanical equivalent of embroidery. In April to June it is at its most beautiful, the fringed edges freshest and most defined. It suits both formal borders and relaxed cottage garden planting, versatile in a way that many specialist tulips are not. As a cut flower it is exceptional, strong stems hold the bloom upright for well over a week, making it as valuable to the vase as it is to the border. Every bulb is hand selected from BLOM's Dutch growers, chosen for size, firmness and the promise of the bloom to come. A small act of trust with a beautiful, reliable reward.