Tulip Mania: The Flower That Once Took the World by Storm
Double-headed tulips ~ also know as peony tulips
When you think of tulips today, images of springtime gardens, elegant bouquets, and vibrant colour palettes likely come to mind. But did you know that these beloved blooms were once at the heart of one of the most famous financial bubbles in history?
Welcome to the curious tale of Tulip Mania—a 17th-century phenomenon where tulips were worth more than gold.
A Blooming Obsession
Tulips arrived in the Netherlands in the late 1500s, imported from the Ottoman Empire. Their bold colours and striking petals quickly captured the hearts of Dutch society. But it wasn’t just their beauty that made tulips so desirable—it was their rarity. Certain varieties, especially the striped or "broken" tulips caused by a virus, were particularly prized and considered status symbols.
By the early 1600s, tulip fever had taken hold. Collectors, merchants, and everyday people began buying tulip bulbs not just for gardens, but as investments.
The Market Blooms—and Bursts
At the height of Tulip Mania in 1636-1637, tulip bulbs were changing hands for astonishing sums. Some rare bulbs sold for the equivalent of a house! But like all bubbles, this one eventually popped. In February 1637, tulip prices suddenly crashed. Within days, bulbs that once cost a fortune were nearly worthless.
Though the economic impact wasn't as widespread as legend suggests, the story of Tulip Mania remains a cautionary tale—and a fascinating chapter in the history of flowers.
Tulips Today: Still Treasured, More Affordable
Fortunately, today you don’t need to trade your house for a bouquet of tulips. These flowers are now grown widely and are available in nearly every colour imaginable. They're a staple of spring arrangements and a favourite among florists and flower lovers alike.
Whether you’re gifting a bunch to brighten someone's day or planting bulbs for the next season, tulips continue to symbolise love, renewal, and beauty—with a side of unforgettable history.