Menton Tulip

TRAVEL In Holland, a horticultural heaven By Lisa Alcalay Klug and Lisa Alcalay Klug,Special to the Sun | April 11, 1999 A Menton tulip is the prima ballerina of its family, its lush, waxy petals the color of a ballet slipper. It grows waist high and its stem resembles a performer's long limbs. And when it covers the banks of a pond filled with swans, its pink reflection dances on the water, creating an almost impressionist illusion.Of all the stunning varieties of tulips growing in Holland's Keukenhof Garden last spring, the statuesque Menton stole my heart. But it had lots of competition. Like a Dutch version of the Garden of Eden, Keukenhof boasts a cliche-defying display of premium tulips, along with select azaleas, hyacinths and other blooms, which are planted amid 80 acres of lush greenery every year.Menton belongs to the group of so-called French tulips. In France these tulips are bred much for cut-flowers. Also in a garden this tulip works miracles. A super strong, robust tulip that will stand tall and solid, whether rain or shine. Menton is a rich pink with orange highlights that give it a hint of warmth. It looks beautiful on its own and combines easily with any of the other French tulips. Great for cutting, too.