Tulips are one of the first flowers to signal that spring has arrived. Known for their bright colors, simple cup-shaped blooms, and classic look, tulips are a favorite in backyard gardens across many climates.
They’re easy to plant, thrive in garden beds and containers, and create a bold seasonal display with minimal effort. From timeless varieties to more unique shapes, these are the most popular types of tulips to grow in your backyard.
1. Single Early Tulips
Single early tulips are among the first tulips to bloom in spring, bringing color to the garden after winter. They have classic cup-shaped flowers and sturdy stems that hold up well in cooler weather. These tulips are great for garden beds, borders, and containers.
2. Darwin Hybrid Tulips
Darwin hybrid tulips are extremely popular for their large blooms and strong stems. They flower in mid to late spring and are known for returning year after year better than many other tulip types. Their bold colors make them a favorite for backyard displays.
3. Triumph Tulips
Triumph tulips are one of the most widely grown tulip varieties thanks to their reliability and wide color range. They bloom in mid-spring and have a traditional tulip shape that works well in almost any garden setting. These tulips are also excellent for cut flowers.
4. Parrot Tulips
Parrot tulips stand out for their ruffled, feather-like petals and dramatic color patterns. They bloom later in the season and add a unique, eye-catching look to garden beds. These tulips are perfect for gardeners who want something bold and different.
5. Double Early Tulips
Double early tulips feature layers of petals that give them a full, rose-like appearance. They bloom early in the spring and create a lush, dense display. These tulips are popular for containers and formal garden designs.
6. Double Late Tulips (Peony Tulips)
Double late tulips are known for their large, full blooms that resemble peonies. They flower in late spring and create a dramatic, showy display. These tulips work well as focal points in garden beds and borders.
7. Fringed Tulips
Fringed tulips have delicate, textured edges along their petals that give them a unique look. They bloom in mid to late spring and add visual interest without being overly bold. These tulips are great for mixed flower beds.
8. Lily-Flowered Tulips
Lily-flowered tulips have long, pointed petals that flare outward, giving them an elegant shape. They bloom later in the season and bring height and movement to the garden. Their refined look makes them popular in formal landscapes.
9. Single Late Tulips
Single late tulips bloom toward the end of the tulip season and help extend spring color in the garden. They have tall stems and large, classic blooms. These tulips are reliable performers and work well in mass plantings.
10. Rembrandt Tulips
Rembrandt tulips are famous for their dramatic streaked and flame-like color patterns. Modern varieties are bred safely to mimic the historic look. These tulips add a bold, artistic feel to backyard gardens.
11. Viridiflora Tulips
Viridiflora tulips are known for their green streaks that remain visible even when the flowers are fully open. They bloom in late spring and have a long-lasting display. These tulips add a unique, modern look to garden designs.
12. Kaufmanniana Tulips
Kaufmanniana tulips, also called waterlily tulips, are early bloomers with wide-opening flowers. They are shorter in height, making them perfect for borders and rock gardens. These tulips are also more likely to return year after year.
13. Fosteriana Tulips
Fosteriana tulips feature large blooms and strong stems and are often among the earliest tulips to flower. They are known for their bold colors and impressive size. These tulips are great for creating early spring impact.
14. Greigii Tulips
Greigii tulips are recognized for their striking foliage, often marked with purple or maroon stripes. They bloom in mid-spring and stay relatively compact. These tulips are ideal for adding interest even before the flowers open.
15. Botanical (Species) Tulips
Botanical tulips are smaller, more natural-looking tulips that closely resemble wild varieties. They are hardy, low-maintenance, and often return year after year. These tulips are perfect for naturalized gardens and low-care landscapes.
Jamie is the founder of The Backyard Pros. When he was 15 years old he started working at a garden centre helping people buy plants, gardening products, and lawn care products. He has real estate experience and he is a home owner. Jamie loves backyard projects, refinishing furniture, and enjoys sharing his knowledge online.