Tulip Fosteriana Orange Emperor (Pack of 7)

Tulipa fosteriana Orange Emperor

The Orange Emperor Fosteriana Tulip reigns as a standout in early spring gardens with its luminous orange petals and stately form. Known for its bold, elongated blooms and dependable performance, this early-blooming variety is perfect for making a striking first impression in beds, borders, and floral displays. Its vibrant color and graceful stature also make it a favorite among landscape designers and home gardeners alike. As a Fosteriana tulip, Orange Emperor is prized for its hardiness, early bloom, and ability to return year after year with proper care.

• USDA Zones: 2–8
• Bloom Time: April
• Height: 14"–16"
• Planting depth/Spacing: 5"/ 4–5"
• Deer Resistant: No

To learn more about the tulip’s upkeep and maintenance, please visit our blogs and videos below.

With its radiant orange petals touched with golden tones, the Orange Emperor adds brightness to the garden landscape just as winter fades. Its sturdy stems and wide-opening flowers make it an ideal choice for both cutting and naturalizing. The blooms have a tulip-meets-lily form that enhances garden texture and visual interest.

Key Characteristics and Benefits of Growing Orange Emperor Tulips

• Brilliant Orange Color: Glows in spring gardens with fiery orange and soft yellow undertones.
• Early Spring Bloomer: One of the first tulips to flower, offering early-season impact.
• Large, Waterlily-Like Form: Unique bloom shape sets it apart in beds and arrangements.
• Reliable Garden Performer: Hardy and resilient across a wide range of climates.
• Great for Cutting: Long-lasting blooms with tall stems ideal for vases and bouquets.

Growing Orange Emperor Fosteriana Tulip Bulbs

Plant in fall at a depth of 5 inches and space bulbs 4–5 inches apart in full sun and well-drained soil. For best results, plant at least 6–8 weeks before the first frost to allow proper root development.

Climate and Soil Requirements

Orange Emperor tulips thrive in USDA zones 2–8 and prefer light, sandy, well-drained soils to prevent bulb rot. A sunny location ensures vibrant blooms and healthy growth. For those in warmer zones, learn how to pre-chill bulbs with our guide on How to Vernalize Tulips and Other Fall-Planted Flower Bulbs in Zones 8 and Above.

Sunlight and Watering

Water well after planting, then maintain light moisture during the growing season. Reduce watering after blooms fade and allow the foliage to die back naturally to feed the bulbs for next season.

Care and Maintenance

Apply mulch in fall to protect bulbs from winter cold. Remove spent flowers to direct energy to the bulb. Use fencing or repellents if deer or rodents are a concern.

For more tips on caring for flower bulbs, explore our complete Flower Bulb Growing Guide .

Landscape Uses for Orange Emperor Tulips

Perfect for creating bold mass plantings or dramatic focal points in early-season beds, the Orange Emperor is also stunning in containers and mixed bulb gardens. Its vivid hue pairs beautifully with blue muscari, white hyacinths, or yellow daffodils.

Multiple Trusted Brands at Grow Organic

Grow Organic proudly offers Orange Emperor Fosteriana Tulip Bulbs from a variety of top-quality brands. This gives gardeners more selection, better value, and the freedom to choose the best fit for their planting style and landscape needs.

Discover more seasonal color for your garden in our Annual Flower Seeds Collection.