5 of the best for containers

From large tubs to window boxes, there are tulips for every kind of container

‘Angélique’

Fragrant, double, peony-like flowers in apple blossom tones are carried on strong stems and last longer than single tulips. ‘Orange Princess’, in vivid orange with a red flash, is more dramatic. Flowers: April/May. H: 11/2ft (45cm).

‘Queen of Night’

The elegant blooms are a rich, dark, velvety crimson - almost black, but not quite – and are all the more effective for not being too large. In a container you can appreciate the colour in close-up. Flowers: May. H: 2ft (60cm).

‘Berlioz’

A dwarf Kaufmanniana tulip with red-mottled foliage and fragrant lemon yellow flowers that are tinted red on the outside and have deep red centres. Look out, too, for pink and white ‘Ancilla’. Flowers: March/April. H: 6in (15cm).

‘White Triumphator’

Perhaps the most classically elegant of all tulips, with tall pure-white flowers that flare towards the tips to give it real style. Ideal in a large tub with a cloud of blue forget-me-nots or planted alone. Flowers: May. H: 2ft (60cm).

‘Fusilier Unicum’

Has branched heads carrying up to half a dozen bright red flowers above leaves edged in cream. If you dislike variegation, try ‘Fusilier’ (above), or the white and lemon ‘Cartouche’. Flowers: March/April. H: 10in (25cm).