(click to enlarge to full size)
Tulip ‘Avignon Parrot’ in late bud form
This year I added a new French Parrot tulip with long stems and an outrageously large flower head. In retrospect possibly too large for my windswept plot. From green buds unfurl brilliant orange blooms. The feathered flowers have hints of pink and green brushed along the petals. The finished article combines tomato red, a sweet pink flame and an apricot-yellow edge.
‘Avignon Parrot’ with the elegant ‘Ballerina’
There is a non-parrot type with the same colouring, but with a neat goblet-shaped head which seems eminently more acceptable.
Named in 1966 after the Southern French city of Avignon where the pope had his palace in the Middle Ages and also famous for its ruined bridge.
“Sur le Pont d’Avignon,
On y danse, On y danse.
Sur le Pont d’Avignon,
On y danse tous en rond.”
I have to say I am not overly fond of this tulip, and I never thought I would say that about a tulip!
Earth laughs in flowers 
Not sure that I like this one. Maybe just the angle. So much variety these days! Chelsea week, Jude! 🙂 🙂
It’s better than it looks, but far too big and showy. I have had to stick twigs in as supports so difficult to photograph. Yes. Chelsea, then Roland Garros, then Wimbles – my cup runneth over 😀
I have added another photo of the flower open, which is probably a nicer view of it. Difficult to capture it in isolation.
But no Murray 😦
No. It looks as though he may well have had his day.
That is such an unusual shape, almost looks deformed, but I love the colour
The colours are the best thing about it. The head is far too heavy and needs staking. Next year I shall stick to the elegant lily-flower shapes.
I’ve added another photo that show the flower open, if you want to take another look.
I’m glad Jo said it first – I don’t find this very attractive. It looks a bit meaty to me. But beautifully photographed of course!
Should have captured it when open more, but by then it was supported by twigs and things. Too flamboyant for me, though I have had parrots in the past which were quite pretty. Too much breeding perhaps.
Have another look Anabel, I have added another photo which show it more open, and much better looking. As I mentioned to Jo, it is a difficult one to photograph in isolation.
I’ve a penchant for parrot tulips – they remind me of 17th century Dutch still life paintings. Very nice collection of pots you have Jude
Thanks Laura. I think I shall pass on the parrots next year though.
Wow!!!!
I have seen this tulip in real life and it does look amazing though only for a short while. Beautiful colour!
I might try the normal goblet version, as you say, the colours are gorgeous.
Love that budding shot; so rich in texture and detail.
Texture is right. Like a Dutch painting.
Les beaux messieurs font comme ca, et puis encore comm ca – or something like that, thanks for the ear worm!
It’s an odd looking one in bud isn’t it?
Very odd! Better once unfurled, but I prefer the lily-flowered or goblet shaped ones more.