Flowering plants have long captivated garden enthusiasts with their beauty and variety. Some bulbs, however, are prized not only for their blooms but also for their rarity and cost. These bulbs command high prices due to their unique qualities, scarcity, and the effort required to cultivate them. Here, we’ll explore some of the most expensive bulbs in the world, each with its own distinctive appeal.
Tulipa ‘Semper Augustus’
Tulipa ‘Semper Augustus’ holds a place in history as one of the most expensive bulbs ever sold. During the Dutch Tulip Mania, a single bulb of this variety could cost more than a house, with historical records showing prices equivalent to $5,000 to $10,000 today. Its striking red and white streaks made it a symbol of wealth and extravagance. Although not widely available today, ‘Semper Augustus’ remains a symbol of rarity and opulence in the world of flowering bulbs. Collectors prize it for its historical significance and unique appearance.
Himalayan Blue Poppy (Meconopsis betonicifolia)
The Himalayan Blue Poppy is one of the most elusive and expensive flowering bulbs, often costing around $35 to $50 per bulb. Its striking sky-blue petals make it a highly sought-after plant among gardeners. Native to the high altitudes of the Himalayas, this poppy requires specific growing conditions, adding to its rarity. The plant can fetch a high price due to its unique color and the challenge involved in cultivating it outside its natural habitat. Each bloom is a marvel, making it a prized possession for those who can afford it.
Amaryllis ‘Sumatra’
Amaryllis ‘Sumatra’ is a rare variety known for its exotic, spider-like red flowers. The bulb, which can cost between $20 and $35, produces large blooms with a unique shape that sets it apart from other Amaryllis varieties. Its rarity and the striking appearance of its flowers make ‘Sumatra’ a valuable addition to any collection. Gardeners prize it for the dramatic effect it adds to indoor and outdoor spaces. The high price reflects its uniqueness and the limited availability of this bulb.
Gloriosa Lily (Gloriosa superba)
The Gloriosa Lily, also known as the flame lily, is admired for its exotic, fiery red and yellow petals. This bulbous plant is native to Africa and Asia, with prices ranging from $15 to $30 per bulb due to its specific growing conditions. Its unique climbing habit and the vibrant colors of its flowers make it a standout in any garden. The rarity and beauty of the Gloriosa Lily make it one of the more expensive bulbs available.
Dahlia ‘Cafe au Lait’
Dahlia ‘Cafe au Lait’ is a favorite among flower enthusiasts for its large, soft blush-pink blooms that can reach up to 10 inches in diameter. This flowers bulb is typically priced between $10 and $30 due to its popularity and the striking beauty of its flowers. ‘Cafe au Lait’ dahlias are often used in weddings and special events, adding to their desirability and value. The dramatic size and color of this dahlia make it a must-have for gardeners who appreciate show-stopping flowers.
Eremurus ‘Cleopatra’
Eremurus ‘Cleopatra’, also known as the Foxtail Lily, is celebrated for its towering spikes of orange flowers. This bulb, priced around $15 to $25, is highly sought after for its dramatic height and the vibrant color it brings to gardens. Native to Central Asia, ‘Cleopatra’ requires well-drained soil and plenty of sun, making it a bit challenging to grow. Its rarity and the spectacular display of blooms contribute to its high price, making it a favorite among gardeners looking for something extraordinary.
Lilium ‘Black Beauty’
Lilium ‘Black Beauty’ is a stunning and unusual lily with dark maroon, almost black, petals edged in white. This flowers bulb, typically costing between $15 and $25, is highly prized for its unique color and elegant, recurved petals. ‘Black Beauty’ blooms in mid to late summer and can reach impressive heights, making it a dramatic addition to any garden. The rarity of its color and the striking appearance make it a valuable bulb for collectors and enthusiasts.
Colchicum ‘Waterlily’
Colchicum ‘Waterlily’ is a double-flowered autumn crocus with large, lilac-pink blooms that resemble water lilies. This bulb, typically costing between $10 and $25, is admired for its unique appearance and the timing of its bloom, which adds color to gardens when most other plants have finished flowering. The ‘Waterlily’ variety is particularly prized for its size and the fullness of its blooms, making it a sought-after bulb for gardeners looking to extend the flowering season into autumn.
Fritillaria imperialis ‘Rubra Maxima’
Fritillaria imperialis ‘Rubra Maxima’ is known for its tall stature and crown of vibrant red-orange flowers. This regal plant is native to mountainous regions and is priced between $15 and $20 per bulb due to the specific conditions it requires to thrive. The bulb’s high price is justified by its dramatic appearance and the care needed to grow it successfully. ‘Rubra Maxima’ is often used as a focal point in gardens due to its towering presence and striking color, making it a prized possession for gardeners.
Nerine ‘Bowdenii’
Nerine ‘Bowdenii’ is a sought-after bulb known for its vibrant pink, spider-like flowers that bloom in late summer to early autumn. This bulb, often priced between $10 and $20, is native to South Africa and thrives in well-drained soils with plenty of sunlight. Its blooms are long-lasting and can add a bright pop of color to any garden. The rarity and striking appearance of Nerine ‘Bowdenii’ contribute to its value, making it a prized choice for gardeners who appreciate unique, late-season flowers.
Lycoris radiata (Red Spider Lily)
Lycoris radiata, known as the Red Spider Lily, is a striking bulb known for its bright red, spidery flowers that bloom in late summer. This flowers bulb is valued at around $10 to $20 each, prized for its ability to add a bold splash of color to gardens just as other plants begin to fade. Native to Asia, the Red Spider Lily is often associated with traditional Japanese and Chinese gardens. Its unique appearance and cultural significance contribute to its high value.
Cyclamen hederifolium
Cyclamen hederifolium is a popular autumn-blooming bulb known for its charming, pink to white flowers and distinctive marbled leaves. This bulb is often priced between $8 and $20, depending on the size and quality. Native to the Mediterranean region, Cyclamen hederifolium thrives in well-drained soils and is often used to naturalize woodland gardens. Its ability to bloom late in the season and its attractive foliage make it a valuable addition to any garden, adding to its high price.
Saffron Crocus (Crocus sativus)
Saffron Crocus is famous for producing the world’s most expensive spice—saffron. The bulb itself is also valuable, with prices ranging from $10 to $15 per bulb due to the labor-intensive process of harvesting saffron threads from each flower. Saffron Crocus blooms in autumn, with purple petals and a vivid red stigma. These bulbs are often priced higher due to the potential for producing high-quality saffron. Growing them requires care and patience, making them a luxurious addition to any garden.
Queen of the Night Tulip (Tulipa ‘Queen of the Night’)
Tulipa ‘Queen of the Night’ is a stunning deep purple, almost black, tulip that commands a high price, often around $10 to $15 per bulb, due to its unique color. This bulb is often sought after for its dramatic appearance and the mystery it adds to any garden. The dark, velvety petals of this tulip create a striking contrast with lighter-colored blooms, making it a favorite among gardeners looking to make a bold statement. Its rarity and the demand for such an unusual color add to its value.
Rhodophiala bifida (Oxblood Lily)
The Oxblood Lily, or Rhodophiala bifida, is admired for its deep red, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom in the fall. This flower bulb is native to Argentina and Texas and is valued at around $8 to $15 per bulb. Known for its ability to naturalize in gardens, the Oxblood Lily is often planted in large groups for a dramatic display. Its striking color and adaptability make it a favorite among gardeners, adding to its high value in the bulb market.
Snowdrop (Galanthus elwesii)
Galanthus elwesii, commonly known as the Snowdrop, is a cherished bulb that blooms in late winter, often pushing through the snow. This bulb is highly valued, with prices ranging from $5 to $15 each, depending on the variety and size. The delicate, white, nodding flowers are a symbol of the coming spring, making them highly sought after by gardeners. Snowdrops are known for their subtle beauty and the hope they bring during the colder months, contributing to their high demand and price.
This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.
More from Rarest.org
The 20 Best Hidden Gems in European Cities
Discovering hidden gems in European cities offers travelers a unique and enriching experience beyond the usual tourist spots. Read More.
15 Most Lucrative Wrestling Promotions
Wrestling promotions around the world have carved out unique niches, offering fans thrilling matches, captivating storylines, and memorable events. Read More.
1975 Jefferson Nickel Value Guide
If you are looking for a new nickel to add to your coin collection, you would be happy to include the 1975 nickel. Read More.
.jpg){kind=link}
