Tulips are unique in range of size, shape, and bold color, found in almost every color spectrum that only tulips provide. Tulips are good for a wide range of plantings, are excellent in the rock garden, in formal beds, as elegant cut flowers, and good for containers. They can be used in nearly any garden design scheme. Flowers are upward facing, with linear to lance shaped green leaves on the stem. Let's just enjoy them for what they are - an incredible source of inexpensive color for the garden. Plant several different varieties of tulips throughout the garden to extend the blooming time. Tulip Cuban Night - an almost black tulip - paired with carmine red Burgundy Lace tulips - make for a fancy combination of two fine fringed tulips. A combination like no other. Planted together they look iconic, in dazzling harmony. To ensure optimal results, allow adequate space, sunlight, plant at the appropriate depth, feed with a well balanced fertilizer, removing the flowers as soon as they go, but allowing the leaves to yellow before removing. Best planted late fall. In some areas, tulips are treated as annuals. For an informal look, plant in groups in natural swathes or bouquets. In USDA zones 8-10, refrigerate the bulbs for no less then eight weeks. In the garden, plant them before frost, but not as early as in the northern part of the country. Planting them in a lightly shaded area will keep them cool and prolong blooming.