Akebono Darwin Tulip
Best choice for gardeners seeking fragrant, long-lasting spring color.
Discover the Akebono Darwin Tulip, a stunning double hybrid originating from Japan, whose name signifies dawn. This exquisite variety features large, camellia-like blooms that gracefully transition from a brilliant yellow to a rich red, complemented by vibrant green foliage and a delightful sweet fragrance. As a Darwin Hybrid, it embodies the perennial qualities of tall, elegant tulips, making it a favorite for cutting gardens and a beautiful addition to any spring landscape. These bulbs are easy to cultivate and naturalize well, promising enduring beauty year after year.
$13.49
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
717
/ 3088
#717 in Plant & Flower Bulbs
Price vs Category Average
-43%
Below average
Mature Height
2022
/ - inches
Who it's for
- Gardeners seeking sophisticated pastel color palettes
- Homeowners wanting reliable, multi-year perennial blooms
- Floral enthusiasts creating long-lasting indoor arrangements
Who should skip it
- Gardeners in areas with high rodent populations
- Residents of warmer climates without winter chilling
- Budget-conscious shoppers looking for inexpensive bulk bulbs
Performance breakdown
Visual Impact
Camellia-like double blooms provide a dramatic, high-contrast color shift.
Ease of Cultivation
Reliable growth habits make these bulbs ideal for novice gardeners.
Perennial Reliability
Darwin hybrid genetics ensure strong, consistent returns in subsequent seasons.
Fragrance Profile
A subtle, sweet scent adds a pleasant sensory layer to landscapes.
Cut Flower Utility
Sturdy stems and long-lasting blooms perform beautifully in indoor arrangements.
Naturalization Potential
Strong bulb health allows for effective spreading and long-term garden establishment.
Key Specs
Mature Height
20-22 inches
Bulb Spacing
9 per sq ft
Flower Bulb Size
12 cm
Planting Depth
5 inches
Growing Zones
3-8
Planting Time
Fall
Soil Type
Loamy Soil, Well-Drained Soil
Neonicotinoid Free
Yes
Features
- Unique double Darwin Hybrid flower form
- Color-shifting blooms from yellow to red
- Sweetly fragrant flowers
- Vibrant green foliage
- Naturalizes well for long-term beauty
- Easy to grow and maintain
- Excellent for cut flower arrangements
- Suitable for container planting
What customers say
Customers overwhelmingly praise the Akebono Darwin Tulip for its exceptional quality and reliable performance. Bulbs arrive substantial and healthy, leading to high sprouting success. The primary delight is the bloom itself: a stunning, unique creamy yellow flushed with apricot and rose pink, offering a sophisticated, long-lasting display. Reviewers consistently note the robust nature of this Darwin hybrid, featuring strong, tall stems that perform reliably year after year without staking. These tulips confirm superb value, delivering a visually spectacular and dependable addition to the spring garden. The overall satisfaction confirms this cultivar is a premium performer.
Know before you buy
Darwin Hybrids are a specific class of tulips known for their large, sturdy blooms and perennial nature. Unlike many modern tulips that may decline after one season, the Akebono is bred to return year after year with proper care.
To encourage naturalizing, plant your bulbs in well-drained soil and allow the foliage to die back naturally after the flowers fade. This process allows the bulb to store the energy needed to produce blooms for the following spring.
Yes, these are excellent for containers. Ensure your pot has adequate drainage holes and use a high-quality potting mix to prevent the bulbs from sitting in water, which can cause rot.
Akebono Darwin Tulips should be planted in the fall, after the soil has cooled but before the ground freezes. This timing allows the bulbs to establish a healthy root system before winter dormancy.
They thrive in full sun but will also perform well in partial sun. For the strongest stems and most vibrant color transition from yellow to red, aim for at least six hours of direct sunlight daily.
Absolutely. Their long, sturdy stems and unique camellia-like double blooms make them a standout choice for cut flower arrangements, and their sweet fragrance adds an extra benefit for indoor displays.
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$13