Red tulips, with their bold and passionate hues, are a springtime emblem of love and vibrancy, instantly transforming gardens into fiery displays. Symbolizing deep emotion and energy, these striking blooms are perfect for borders, containers, or cut flowers, pairing beautifully with yellows, whites, or purples for dramatic contrasts. Thriving in USDA zones 3–7, they need a cold period to bloom, making them ideal for temperate regions. Their rich color evokes warmth, making them a favorite for romantic and festive settings.
Blooming from early to late spring, red tulips offer diverse shapes, from classic cups to fringed or ruffled forms, suiting various garden styles. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil to maintain vivid hues and sturdy stems. While some perennialize, many are grown as annuals for consistent brilliance. Planting in fall ensures a vibrant spring show, adding intensity to any landscape.
Red tulips are low-maintenance, requiring minimal water once established, supporting eco-friendly gardening. They attract early pollinators like bees, boosting biodiversity, but their bulbs are toxic if ingested, so keep them away from pets. Their vivid color uplifts mood and garden aesthetics, making them a staple for both casual and formal designs, from wildflower lawns to elegant beds.
To grow red tulips, plant bulbs 6–8 inches deep in fall, in a sunny, well-drained spot. Apply fertilizer post-bloom and let foliage wither to store energy. Protect from rodents with mulch or mesh. Whether creating a bold border or a romantic bouquet, red tulips deliver a passionate burst of color, igniting spring gardens with their timeless allure.
Why Red Tulips Are a Garden Essential
Red tulips are the epitome of bold beauty, commanding attention with their rich, warm tones that symbolize deep emotion and vitality. As the most common and arguably most popular tulip color, red varieties range from cherry scarlet to deep crimson, offering versatility for pairing with yellow daffodils, purple hyacinths, or white tulips for striking contrasts. Thriving in USDA zones 3–7, red tulips require a 12–14-week cold period to bloom, though some species tolerate warmer zones (7–8) with pre-chilling. Perfect for beds, pots, or naturalizing, these tulips awaken spring gardens after winter’s gloom.
Red Tulip Varieties
1. Red Emperor (Fosteriana)
Red Emperor, also known as Madame Lefeber, is a Fosteriana tulip that blooms early to mid-spring (March–April) with massive, scarlet-red, bowl-shaped flowers up to 8 inches across on 10–16-inch stems. Its broad, sometimes striped foliage adds ornamental value, and its vibrant color makes it a favorite for naturalizing. This fragrant variety perennializes well, returning for years in full sun and well-drained soil. Pair with yellow Purissima for a classic spring combo. Red Emperor is ideal for gardeners seeking bold, early red tulips with lasting impact.
2. Kingsblood (Single Late)
Kingsblood, a Single Late tulip, blooms in May with cherry-red, egg-shaped flowers on tall 24–28-inch stems. Its highly fragrant, cup-shaped blooms are perfect for mass plantings or cut flowers, filling vases with scent. Thriving in full sun and well-drained soil, this variety can be forced indoors for early blooms. Combine with orange Ballerina tulips or sweet rocket for a vibrant late-season display. Kingsblood is a top choice for gardeners wanting tall, fragrant red tulips to cap the spring season.
3. Red Impression (Darwin Hybrid)
Red Impression, a Darwin Hybrid, blooms in mid to late spring (April–May) with compact, blood-red, cup-shaped flowers on strong 20–24-inch stems. Known for pest and disease resistance, this variety spreads easily and perennializes reliably in sunny, well-drained sites. Its sturdy stems withstand spring winds, making it ideal for exposed beds. Pair with yellow Golden Parade for a fiery contrast. Red Impression is perfect for gardeners seeking robust, long-lasting red tulips for bold landscapes.
4. Aladdin (Lily-Flowered)
Aladdin, a Lily-Flowered tulip, blooms in late spring (May) with pointed, crimson-red petals rimmed with yellow, forming a goblet-shaped, star-like bloom on 16–20-inch stems. Its elegant, outward-curving petals sway gracefully, ideal for mixed borders with white daffodils or purple alliums. Plant in full sun and well-drained soil, protecting from wind due to its delicate form. Aladdin is a must-have for gardeners wanting a refined, bicolor red tulip with a dramatic silhouette.
5. Van Eijk (Darwin Hybrid)
Van Eijk, a Darwin Hybrid, blooms in early spring (April) with single, cherry-red flowers on sturdy 18–22-inch stems. Its weather-resistant blooms and strong stems make it ideal for windy sites or mass plantings. Thriving in full sun and well-drained soil, it perennializes well, offering years of vibrant color. Pair with white narcissus or yellow Golden Apeldoorn for a bold spring palette. Van Eijk is perfect for gardeners seeking a reliable, early red tulip with classic appeal.
6. Red Proud (Single Late)
Red Proud, a Single Late tulip, blooms in May with rich red, cup-shaped flowers on towering 24–30-inch stems. Its long-lasting blooms excel in gardens or as cut flowers, with strong stems that endure wet, breezy conditions. Plant in full sun and well-drained soil, and combine with white Maureen tulips for elegance. Red Proud is ideal for gardeners wanting statuesque, late-season red tulips that make a lasting impression in borders or vases.
7. Glasnost (Parrot)
Glasnost, a Parrot tulip, blooms in mid to late spring (April–May) with deep-red, yellow-edged, ruffled flowers resembling feathers on 16–24-inch stems. Its flamboyant, feathery petals demand attention in beds or arrangements but require wind protection. Plant in full sun and well-drained soil, and pair with blue salvia for contrast. Often treated as an annual, Glasnost is perfect for gardeners seeking exotic, showy red tulips for a tropical vibe.
8. Reputation (Triumph)
Reputation, a Triumph tulip, blooms in mid to late spring (April–May) with crimson flowers flushed with lemon-yellow edges on 16–20-inch stems. Its cup-shaped blooms are cold-hardy and versatile for borders, beds, or forcing indoors. Plant in full sun and well-drained soil, and pair with white pansies for a crisp look. Reputation is a great choice for gardeners wanting a bicolor, mid-season red tulip with sturdy, reliable performance.
9. Couleur Cardinal (Single Early)
Couleur Cardinal, a Single Early tulip, blooms in early April with large, round, scarlet-red flowers on short 10–16-inch stems. Its compact size and neat foliage make it ideal for pots or rock gardens, and its fragrance enhances indoor displays. Plant in full sun and well-drained soil, and combine with purple Christmas Dream tulips for vibrancy. Couleur Cardinal is perfect for gardeners seeking early, fragrant red tulips for small spaces.
10. Red Riding Hood (Greigii)
Red Riding Hood, a Greigii tulip, blooms in early to mid spring (April) with large, scarlet-red, bowl-shaped flowers on 8–12-inch stems. Its mottled, brown-striped foliage adds visual interest, making it a standout in rock gardens or borders. This reliable perennial thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Pair with yellow Pinocchio Greigii tulips for a playful contrast. Red Riding Hood is ideal for gardeners wanting low-growing, vibrant red tulips with decorative leaves.
11. Miranda (Double Early)
Miranda, a Double Early tulip, blooms in early to mid-April with lush, double, red petals forming frilly clusters on 12–16-inch stems. Its peony-like flowers are perfect for containers or cutting, adding a romantic touch. Plant in full sun and protect from wind due to its heavy blooms. Pair with white Foxtrot tulips for softness. Miranda is a favorite for gardeners seeking full, vibrant red tulips with early-season drama.
12. Davenport (Fringed)
Davenport, a Fringed tulip, blooms in mid to late spring (April–May) with crimson-red petals edged with yellow crystalline fringes on 16–20-inch stems. Its serrated edges add texture to beds or bouquets, thriving in full sun and well-drained soil. Pair with yellow Golden Davenport for a cohesive look. Davenport is perfect for gardeners wanting a bold, textured red tulip with a frilly, exotic flair.
13. Fusilier (Species)
Fusilier, a Tulipa praestans species tulip, blooms in early spring (March–April) with multi-flowering, scarlet-red blooms on 8–12-inch stems. Its clear, vibrant color and long-lived nature make it ideal for naturalizing or rock gardens. Plant in full sun and well-drained soil, and pair with variegated Unicum for contrast. Fusilier is a top pick for gardeners seeking petite, perennial red tulips with a wild charm.
14. Ballade Dream (Lily-Flowered)
Ballade Dream, a Lily-Flowered tulip, blooms in late spring (May) with fluted, blood-red petals edged with golden yellow on 16–20-inch stems. Its goblet-shaped, reflexed flowers add elegance to borders or vases. Plant in full sun and well-drained soil, protecting from wind. Pair with purple Ballade for a royal palette. Ballade Dream is ideal for gardeners wanting a bicolor, graceful red tulip for late-season sophistication.
15. Red Cross (Single Early)
Red Cross, a Single Early tulip, blooms in early April with crimson petals and a glossy finish on 10–16-inch stems. Its vibrant, cup-shaped flowers add energy to pots or borders, thriving in full sun and well-drained soil. Pair with white Princess Irene for a crisp contrast. Red Cross is perfect for gardeners seeking a bold, early red tulip with a polished, classic look.
16. Red Hat (Fringed)
Red Hat, a Fringed tulip, blooms in late spring (May) with deep red petals edged with crystallized fringes on 16–24-inch stems. Its frilly appearance adds exoticism to beds or arrangements, thriving in full sun and well-drained soil. Pair with yellow Maja for vibrancy. Red Hat is a great choice for gardeners wanting a showy, late-season red tulip with a unique, fringed texture.
17. Acropolis (Darwin Hybrid)
Acropolis, a Darwin Hybrid, blooms in mid spring (April) with rosy-red, pyramid-shaped flowers on 20–24-inch stems. Its weather-resistant blooms and perennializing nature make it ideal for mass plantings or cut flowers. Plant in full sun and well-drained soil, and pair with yellow daffodils for balance. Acropolis is perfect for gardeners seeking a robust, mid-season red tulip with a romantic glow.
18. Red Miranda (Double Early)
Red Miranda, a Double Early tulip, blooms in early April with double, scarlet-red petals forming lush, peony-like clusters on 12–16-inch stems. Its vibrant, frilly blooms are ideal for containers or cutting, thriving in full sun and needing wind protection. Pair with pink Monsella for a warm palette. Red Miranda is a favorite for gardeners wanting bold, early red tulips with a luxurious texture.
19. Red Shine (Lily-Flowered)
Red Shine, a Lily-Flowered tulip, blooms in late spring (May) with deep red, pointed petals that arch outward on 16–20-inch stems. Its star-like blooms add elegance to borders or vases, thriving in full sun and well-drained soil. Pair with white White Triumphator for contrast. Red Shine is ideal for gardeners seeking a sleek, late-season red tulip with a refined silhouette.
20. Toronto (Greigii)
Toronto, a Greigii tulip, blooms in early to mid spring (April) with large, pinkish-red flowers on 8–12-inch stems, complemented by mottled foliage. Its compact size and perennial nature make it perfect for rock gardens or borders. Plant in full sun and well-drained soil, and pair with yellow Cape Cod for vibrancy. Toronto is a top pick for gardeners wanting low-growing, durable red tulips with decorative leaves.
21. Calypso (Greigii)
Calypso, a Greigii tulip, blooms in early spring (March–April) with glowing orange-red flowers and canary-yellow margins on 8–12-inch stems. Its striped foliage adds interest, and its perennial nature suits rock gardens. Plant in full sun and well-drained soil, and pair with white Quebec for contrast. Calypso is perfect for gardeners seeking a bicolor, early red tulip with a fiery glow.
22. Olympic Flame (Darwin Hybrid)
Olympic Flame, a Darwin Hybrid, blooms in mid spring (April) with red flowers streaked with yellow flames on 20–24-inch stems. Its pyramid-shaped blooms and perennializing ability make it ideal for beds or cutting. Plant in full sun and well-drained soil, and pair with purple Negrita for drama. Olympic Flame is a great choice for gardeners wanting a bicolor, mid-season red tulip with a fiery flair.
23. Fire of Love (Greigii)
Fire of Love, a Greigii tulip, blooms in early spring (March–April) with scarlet-red, bowl-shaped flowers on 8–12-inch stems, accented by mottled foliage. Its compact, perennial form suits rock gardens or borders. Plant in full sun and well-drained soil, and pair with yellow Rob Verlinden for vibrancy. Fire of Love is ideal for gardeners seeking a bold, early red tulip with ornamental leaves.
24. Red Georgette (Multi-flowering)
Red Georgette, a Multi-flowering tulip, blooms in mid to late spring (April–May) with multiple cherry-red, cup-shaped flowers per 16–20-inch stem. Its prolific blooms create a lush effect in beds or pots, thriving in full sun and well-drained soil. Pair with white Antoinette for elegance. Red Georgette is perfect for gardeners wanting a vibrant, multi-blooming red tulip for maximum impact.
25. Burgundy (Lily-Flowered)
Burgundy, a Lily-Flowered tulip, blooms in late spring (May) with deep red, goblet-shaped flowers with reflexed petals on 16–20-inch stems. Its elegant form excels in borders or vases, thriving in full sun and well-drained soil. Pair with yellow Fly Away for contrast. Burgundy is a top choice for gardeners seeking a rich, late-season red tulip with a graceful profile.
26. Unicum (Species)
Unicum, a Tulipa praestans species tulip, blooms in early spring (March–April) with scarlet-red, multi-flowering blooms and variegated foliage on 8–12-inch stems. Its long-lived, naturalizing nature suits rock gardens or wildflower lawns. Plant in full sun and well-drained soil, and pair with Fusilier for a scarlet duo. Unicum is ideal for gardeners wanting petite, perennial red tulips with a wild, vibrant charm.
27. Red Hat (Fringed)
Red Hat, a Fringed tulip, blooms in late spring (May) with deep red petals featuring crystalline fringes on 16–24-inch stems. Its frilly, exotic look shines in beds or bouquets, thriving in full sun and well-drained soil. Pair with yellow Maja for a vibrant display. Red Hat is perfect for gardeners seeking a textured, late-season red tulip with a bold, ornamental edge.
28. Ancilla (Kaufmanniana)
Ancilla, a Kaufmanniana tulip, blooms early in spring (March) with red and creamy-yellow, waterlily-like flowers on 6–10-inch stems. Its star-shaped blooms open wide in sun, ideal for rock gardens or pots. Plant in full sun and well-drained soil, and pair with white Heart’s Delight for charm. Ancilla is a great choice for gardeners wanting petite, early red tulips with a delicate, natural appeal.