These parrot-type tulips with ruffled petals don’t resemble more “traditional” tulips. They have a unique charm all their own with peach and lavender coloring.

Not only are parrot tulips attractive for their feathery edges, but they also often have two-tone coloring. T. 'Fabio' is an excellent example of this, with vibrant red and orange-yellow hues.

(Scripps Howard)Yes, parrot tulips are just weird and may turn off traditional gardeners. But for the lover of new and exciting forms, they are the most coveted of all.

The original tulip was named after Princess Irene of the Netherlands in 1949. The Irene Parrot Tulip is orange, with reddish-purple streaks. Tulipa Irene Parrot. PHOTO: GARDENS BY THE BAY.