Description
This is one of the Neo-Tulips from the Alps of Savoy in France, which have arisen from introductions made during the crusades. Some have already been rendered extinct by ski developments, but their high-altitude, summer-wet home makes them ideal for garden use as they are hardy and long-lived.
This species, preserved in Holland, has lovely crimson red flowers with a unique grey-dusted exterior to the bloom, when still in the bud. As a denizen of cool mountains and damp summers, it is perfectly happy in the garden with a minimum of intervention.
Though not truly “wild”, the so-called “neo-Tulips” of France are probably ancient introductions of T. gesneriana dating as much as 500 years and are distinct from each other and unique.
