NOTES FROM ANNOUSHKA
NOTES FROM ANNOUSHKA
NOTES FROM ANNOUSHKA
A RIOT OF COLOUR
You may be aware by now that Tulips are my favourite flower. As Spring unfurls, my garden becomes awash with gorgeous parrot tulips, transforming into a riot of colour. So much so, that I decided to embark on a pilgrimage of sorts to Holland to visit the magnificent tulip fields. Needless to say in true British style, I brought the weather with me in the form of driving rain and very strong winds, we cycled on regardless!
What fascinates me most is the intricate streaked markings that many parrot tulips have, the extraordinary result of a harmless virus, which also causes the ruffled edges in other varieties. Among the array of tulip varieties, the parrot tulips stand out with their flamboyant petals resembling tropical birds' plumes.
Dating back to the 16th Century in the Ottoman Empire, tulips were introduced to Europe and quickly captivated hearts, particularly among the Dutch middle class. In a fascinating twist of history, tulip bulbs became an unexpected status symbol, comparable to gold, with records from 1637 documenting trades where single bulbs exchanged hands for entire houses in the heart of Amsterdam.
SHOP THE DIAMOND TULIP PENDANT