Creator: Unknown
Registration date: December 31, 1780
Cultivar Group: Rembrandt group
We have written extensively about the Tulip Breaking or "Mosaic" virus - which tends to split the colors of a Tulip into brilliant, flared patterns (see our article on this beautiful curse here). When a Tulip is infected with this virus, it typically weakens the bulb and leads to the breed dying out over time. That is what makes the Absalon, first registered in 1780, so impressive. Despite being infected, it has survived to this day, and can still be found for purchase by rare bulb sellers.
Image source: The Hortus Bulborum Dutch Rare Bulb Conservatory
We are working in partnership with the KAVB to highlight the incredible variety of Tulips by sharing different flowers every week. The KAVB (Royal General Association for Bulb Culture), established in 1860, today acts as the international registration authority for all Tulips (along with several other flowers), and works to protect and support bulb growers around the world.