Tulip Bulbs – ‘Exotic Emperor’

Also known as ‘Purissima’, this beautiful Fosteriana tulip produces large, creamy-white blooms that open wide in the sunshine, sometimes revealing a delicate pale-yellow flush before maturing to soft ivory white. Its sturdy stems and broad green foliage create a graceful display in garden beds, borders, and containers.

Flowering in early to mid-spring, ‘White Emperor’ is a lovely choice for creating fresh, sophisticated displays and pairing with colourful spring bulbs.

Why You'll Like It

Elegant White Blooms: Large, creamy-white flowers bring a fresh, classic look to spring gardens.

Impressive Flower Size: Broad, cup-shaped blooms open beautifully in sunlight.

Fragrant Flowers: Enjoy a delicate fragrance during the flowering season.

Strong Stems: Sturdy growth makes this variety suitable for garden displays and fresh-cut arrangements.

Plant Details

Botanical Name: Tulipa fosteriana ‘White Emperor’
Common Name: White Emperor Tulip, Purissima Tulip
Plant Type: Spring-flowering perennial bulb
Flower Colour: Creamy white, sometimes with a pale-yellow flush
Flower Type: Large, single, cup-shaped blooms
Bloom Time: Early to mid-spring
Established Height: Approximately 35–45 cm (14–18 inches)
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Fertile, well-drained soil
Maintenance Level: Low
Frost Tolerance: Hardy; requires winter chilling
Pet Friendly: No; tulips are toxic if ingested, particularly the bulbs

Growing Information

Light Requirements: Plant in full sun for the best flowering, although partial shade is also suitable.

Watering: Water after planting and during active growth as needed. Avoid waterlogged soil, which can cause bulbs to rot.

Planting: Plant bulbs in fall, pointed end up, approximately 6 inches deep and 4–6 inches apart.

Maintenance: Remove faded flowers after blooming and allow foliage to yellow naturally so the bulbs can replenish their energy.

Long-Term Care: Provide good drainage and allow foliage to die back completely before removing it. Bulbs may return in subsequent seasons under suitable conditions.

Great For

Spring Garden Beds • Garden Borders • Patio Containers • Fresh-Cut Bouquets • Mass Plantings • Elegant Spring Displays

Welcome spring with the timeless beauty and graceful, creamy-white blooms of ‘White Emperor’ tulips.