Tulip 'Secret Perfume' brings a welcome addition to spring gardens, pairing soft lemony yellow flo...Tulip 'Secret Perfume' brings a welcome addition to spring gardens, pairing soft lemony yellow flowers with a unique, strong fragrance. This hardy perennial bulb produces double, peony-shaped blooms in late April, perfect for sunny beds, borders, and patio pots as the garden moves into its most colourful season. Growing up to approximately 50cm tall, it looks striking in bold groups and blends beautifully with early narcissi, muscari, and other spring flowers. In containers, place it near a doorway, path, or seating area so the perfume can be enjoyed close up. The rounded double flowers also make superb cut stems for spring bouquets, adding both colour and gentle scent to your indoor spaces. Plant in autumn in full sun and well-drained soil or good-quality compost. If using containers, ensure they have drainage holes and avoid leaving bulbs in wet compost through winter. After flowering, allow the foliage to fade naturally so the bulbs can store energy for the following season. Supplied as a pack of 15 bulbs, size 10/11, ready to plant upon arrival.
The Tulip 'Secret Perfume' is an ideal choice for gardeners looking to combine vibrant color with a surprising sensory element in their spring displays. These double, peony-shaped yellow flowers are perfect for borders, sunny beds, or patio containers, offering a strong, pleasant fragrance that distinguishes them from many other tulip varieties. While they provide excellent visual and olfactory appeal, users should note that they require well-draining soil to prevent rot and must be allowed to fade naturally after blooming to ensure success for the following year.
All features
Model Part Number
80E307-Yellow
Brand
YouGarden
Extended Product Information
FAQs
When is the best time to plant these bulbs?
Plant them in the autumn, before the first hard ground frost.
Can I grow 'Secret Perfume' in shade?
They prefer full sun to reach their full potential and open their blooms properly; shade may lead to leggy, weak stems.
How deep should I plant them?
A general rule of thumb is to plant the bulb at a depth that is two to three times the bulb's height.
Are these bulbs deer-resistant?
Tulips are generally favorites of deer and squirrels. If these pests are in your area, you may need to use protection such as wire mesh over the planting area.
Do I need to dig them up every year?
They can be left in the ground if the soil is well-drained, but in containers, some gardeners prefer to dig them up and store them once the foliage has faded to keep pots available for summer plants.
How long do the blooms last?
The double flowers typically bloom in late April and can last for several weeks depending on the temperature; cooler, overcast weather usually extends the bloom time.
Troubleshooting
Bulbs failing to bloom
Ensure they are receiving at least 6 hours of full sun; lack of light is the most common cause of poor development.
Bulbs rotting in the ground
Check your drainage. If the soil is heavy clay, mix in horticultural grit or sand before planting to improve water flow.
Stunted growth
This may occur if the bulbs were planted too shallow. Ensure they are planted at a depth of roughly 3 times the height of the bulb.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Striking lemony yellow color provides a bright spring aesthetic
Unique strong fragrance is rare for typical tulip varieties
Double petals create a high-end, elegant floral appearance
Perfect height for container gardening near entrances
Ideal for creating home-grown spring cut-flower arrangements
Cons
Requires well-drained soil to avoid bulb rot during winter
Foliage must be left to fade naturally which may look messy for some gardeners
Bulbs are not deer or rodent proof
Requires full sun for optimal bloom development
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Planting: Plant the bulbs in autumn in well-drained soil or high-quality compost. If planting in pots, always ensure the container has functional drainage holes.
Sunlight: Position in a location that receives full sun to ensure the buds develop fully and open properly.
Watering: While the bulbs need moisture, avoid waterlogged conditions, especially during winter dormancy. In pots, elevate the container slightly to aid drainage.
Post-Bloom Care: Once the flowers finish in late April or early May, do not trim the leaves. Allow them to yellow and die back naturally; this process is vital as the plant transfers energy from the foliage back into the bulb for next year's growth.
Maintenance: You can remove the foliage only once it has turned completely brown and papery.