The Story
Plant Bio
Tulipa 'Rococo' is a Parrot Tulip, a type of perennial bulb known for its large, flamboyant flowers and sturdy stems. Parrot tulips are prized for their unique, feather-like, ruffled, and twisted petals.
The 'Rococo' cultivar is characterized by its dramatic, fiery red petals with flashes of green and yellow. The deeply fringed and curled petals resemble a parrot's plumage, making it a spectacular cut flower and garden feature.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Bulb Corm Tuber
Height
20 inches
Width
6 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate during growth, dry dormancy
Humidity
Prefers well-drained, moderately dry conditions
Lifespan
Perennial with proper care
Native To
Hybrid origin
Toxicity
Toxic to pets and humans if ingested
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck bulbs 4-6 inches deep in well-drained soil in fall.
- Plant with pointed end facing up and space 3-4 inches apart.
- Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil.
- Mulch lightly to protect from extreme cold and retain moisture.
- Allow foliage to yellow naturally for energy storage.
- Divide overcrowded clumps every 3-4 years in late summer.
Pro Tip
Plant tulip bulbs in groups for a more natural and striking display.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water moderately during active growth 🌱
- Plant in well-drained soil to prevent rot
- Fertilize with a balanced bulb fertilizer in fall
- Allow foliage to yellow before removing
Don't
- Overwater during dormancy ❌
- Plant too shallow or too deep
- Use heavy clay soil without amendments ❌
- Cut back foliage prematurely
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Plant |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Rococo Tulip questions
What zones can Rococo Tulip grow in?
Rococo Tulip is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Rococo Tulip deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Rococo Tulip, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Rococo Tulip bloom?
Rococo Tulip typically blooms in mid to late spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Rococo Tulip need full sun?
Rococo Tulip does best in full sun (6+ hours).
Is Rococo Tulip drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Rococo Tulip handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Tulipa to compare

All Spring Mix Tulip
Tulipa tulip 'All Spring Mix'

Parrot Tulip Mix
Tulipa gesneriana 'Parrot Tulip Mix'

Marilyn Tulip
Tulipa tulipa 'Marilyn'

Artist Tulip
Tulipa tulipa 'Artist'

Tulip Fun Colors Mix
Tulipa gesneriana 'Fun Colors Mix'

Blumex Parrot Tulip
Tulipa tulip 'Blumex Parrot'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Rococo Tulip with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.


