5 Tulipa Darwin Hybrid 'Hakuun' Starter Bulbs. The White Cloud Tulip. Loves Full Sun. For Fall Planting

Common Name: Tulip

Hakuun is a standout Darwin Hybrid tulip, featuring large, pristine white flowers that sometimes reveal a subtle yellow hue at their centers. With robust stems growing 18 to 22 inches high, its blooms can span up to 6 inches wide.

Blooming in mid-spring, this tulip thrives best in full sunlight and well-drained soil, making it perfect for garden borders, mass plantings, and fresh-cut bouquets. Named “White Cloud” in Japanese, Hakuun is celebrated as one of the earliest Darwin Hybrids to bloom while maintaining its pure white color.

Darwin hybrids are celebrated for their impressive, traditional tulip blooms, supported by strong stems and vibrant, rich colors. These qualities make them perfect for enhancing landscapes, creating striking mass plantings, and crafting beautiful cut flower displays.

Grower Tips

Planting: Plant in fall when soil temperatures drop below 55°F. Set bulbs 6–8 inches deep with the pointed end up. Darwin Hybrids are ideal for large-scale displays, perennial borders, and cutting gardens due to their impressive size and vigor.
Spacing: Space bulbs 4–6 inches apart. For maximum impact, plant in groups of 10 or more—tall stems and broad flowers are especially striking in mass.
Light: Full sun is essential for strong stems and rich bloom color. While light shade is tolerated, abundant light ensures upright growth and long-lasting flowers.
Soil: Provide well-drained, neutral to slightly acidic soil (pH 6–7). Avoid poorly drained areas—these large bulbs are prone to rot in wet spring conditions.
Watering: Water after planting to settle the soil. In spring, water only during extended dry periods to preserve bloom integrity.
Temperature & Dormancy: Requires 12–16 weeks of cold (below 50°F) for proper root formation and bloom development.
Fertilization: Apply balanced bulb fertilizer when planting and again in early spring as foliage appears. This supports their strong perennial tendencies and bold floral performance.
Pests: Squirrels may dig newly planted bulbs—protect with mulch or mesh. Deer will eat buds and foliage, especially early in spring, so use repellents or fencing in high-pressure areas.
Disease: To prevent Botrytis (Tulip Fire), plant only healthy, firm bulbs in sunny, well-ventilated locations. Avoid overhead watering and promptly remove any infected tissue—do not compost. Rotate planting sites annually and avoid replanting in previously affected areas for three years.