In Anatolia, during the Seljuk and Ottoman periods, the “Istanbul tulip,” which was cultivated, but its production ceased for various reasons in the 19th century, will be reproduced once again.
The Istanbul Tulip Foundation continues its efforts to establish tulips as a Turkish flower at both national and international levels and to promote its recognition and production in Turkey. The foundation, which plants tens of thousands of bulbs used in the annual tulip festival, is working to adorn the streets of Istanbul once again with the flower known as the "Ottoman tulip," characterized by its pointed, almond-shaped petals unique to the city. This initiative aims to revitalize the popularity and cultivation of this particular flower in Istanbul.
Salih Arslan, the Chairman of the Istanbul Tulip Foundation's Board of Directors, stated that their aim is to bring the tulip to a point where people embrace it. He highlighted the significance of having a single flower on the green stem, expressing that it symbolizes the existence and unity of God. Arslan added: "Next year, we will see a large number of Istanbul tulips. Currently, we have an adequate supply of tulip bulbs and varieties in our warehouses. Actually, Kadir Topbaş started this about 12 years ago by collaborating with major producers in cities like Çatalca, Silivri, Konya, and Karaman to plant tulips. Our colleagues are still continuing their production in those areas. However, here at the Istanbul Tulip Foundation, we will emphasize both the variety and the continuity of the tulip's existence, spreading its cultivation and education further."
