Tulips: Meaning, Colours and How to Care for Them

Tulips (Tulpen in German) are the flower of spring. Their clean shapes and bright colours brighten up a room after a long winter, and they suit almost every occasion. Here is what you need to know about tulip meanings, colours and care.

What tulip colours mean

• Red: love, and a popular romantic gift.
• Pink: affection and gratitude.
• Yellow: cheerfulness and friendship.
• White: respect and fresh starts.
• Purple: elegance and a touch of luxury.
• Orange: warmth and energy.

As with all flower meanings, these are traditions, so choose the colours you like best. Browse tulips.

Why tulips are special

Tulips are living flowers that continue to grow after being cut. They can grow a few centimetres in the vase and bend towards the light. This is normal, and it gives tulips their relaxed, natural look.

How to care for tulips

• Trim about 1 to 2 cm from the stems at an angle.
• Use a clean vase and cool water.
• Keep them away from heat, sun and ripe fruit.
• Turn the vase from time to time so they grow evenly.
• Change the water every day or two.

For more general advice, read 10 simple tips to make cut flowers last longer.

Keep tulips upright

If your tulips droop, recut the stems and place them in fresh, cool water. A tall vase helps to support them. Some people wrap the bunch loosely in paper for a few hours to straighten the stems.

Tulips through the year

Tulips are most associated with spring, and they are a natural fit for Easter and Mother's Day. See our seasonal flowers calendar and Easter flowers and traditions.

Related reading

• Seasonal Flowers in Germany: What Blooms When
• How to Make Cut Flowers Last Longer: 10 Simple Tips
• Easter Flowers and Traditions in Germany