Tulip ‘Sun Lover – Chameleon’ – Colour-Changing Double Blooms

The Tulip ‘Sun Lover – Chameleon’ is a spectacular double late tulip variety, loved for its large, peony-like blooms that change colour as they mature. Opening in rich golden yellow with fiery orange and red tones, the petals gradually deepen and transform, creating a shifting display of glowing, sunset shades. This “chameleon effect” ensures no two flowers look quite the same, making it one of the most exciting tulips to grow.

Flowering in late spring, ‘Sun Lover – Chameleon’ adds drama and warmth to borders, containers, and cut flower arrangements. Its strong stems and full, layered blooms make it a garden showpiece, while its long-lasting flowers look stunning both outdoors and in vases.

General Information

This tulip belongs to the double late group, sometimes called “peony tulips” due to their lush, layered flowers. ‘Sun Lover – Chameleon’ is particularly prized for its colour-shifting display.

• Height: Grows 40–50cm tall.

• Flowers: Large, double blooms that change colour – from golden yellow to fiery orange and red.

• Flowering season: Late spring (April–May).

• Foliage: Grey-green, strap-like leaves.

• Position: Prefers full sun but will tolerate partial shade.

• Soil: Fertile, well-drained soil is essential; dislikes waterlogging.

• Hardiness: Fully hardy in most climates.

• Uses: Borders, beds, patio containers, and cut flower displays.

‘Sun Lover – Chameleon’ pairs beautifully with dark tulips such as ‘Queen of Night’ or deep purple alliums, creating high-impact, contrasting combinations.

Care Guide

This variety is easy to grow and, with minimal care, will reward gardeners with flamboyant, colour-changing flowers.

Planting

• When to plant: Plant bulbs in autumn (September–November) before the first frost.

• Depth & spacing: Plant 10–15cm deep and 8–10cm apart.

• Grouping: For the best display, plant in clusters of 6–10 or more.

• Containers: Ideal for pots; use multipurpose compost mixed with grit for drainage.

Watering & Feeding

• Water well after planting.

• In spring, water in dry spells, particularly in containers.

• Apply a balanced bulb fertiliser when shoots appear to encourage strong flowering.

Aftercare

• Deadhead spent blooms but allow foliage to die back naturally – this strengthens the bulb for next year.

• Avoid cutting or tying leaves prematurely.

• Tulips are often treated as annuals, but bulbs can be lifted, dried, and replanted the following autumn if desired.

Protection

• Hardy in the ground, but bulbs in pots may benefit from shelter during severe frost.

• Protect bulbs from waterlogging and keep an eye out for slugs on young shoots.

Why Choose Tulip ‘Sun Lover – Chameleon’?

This tulip is perfect for gardeners who want vibrant, long-lasting colour with an ever-changing twist.

• Colour-changing blooms: Fiery petals shift from golden yellow to orange and red.

• Double flowers: Peony-like blooms with a luxurious, layered look.

• Late flowering: Extends tulip displays into late spring.

• Versatile use: Excellent in borders, containers, or as cut flowers.

• Garden drama: A bold, eye-catching variety that transforms plantings.

The Tulip ‘Sun Lover – Chameleon’ is a true showpiece, bringing warmth, colour, and a magical shifting effect to the late spring garden. Whether planted in borders, containers, or cut for glowing indoor arrangements, this tulip is guaranteed to turn heads and brighten your displays.

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

Standard Delivery is FREE on orders over €250*

All standard deliveries will be completed within 5-7 working days via Fastway Couriers, any delay to this delivery time, the customer will be notified by One of our staff.

The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

Live Plants Delivery

Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

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