Growing Parrot Tulips: Parrot Tulips have an exotic look, with curled, ruffled petals. Eye-catching blooms often feature high-contrast streaks or stripes, making them a favorite for adding bold color and texture to gardens and cut flower arrangements. Blooming at the end of spring, they signal a warm welcome to the summer season. Plant bulbs in fall. These flowers bloom best in their first season. To encourage their return, plant in full sun with well-drained soil, where they can stay as dry as possible when dormant.