Tulips (genus Tulipa) - flowering herbaceous perennials, known for their large, colorful spring flowers. Part of the Liliaceae family, they are bulbous (underground bulb) plants. They are native to Central Asia and southern Europe, having been cultivated in Persia since the 10th century. They were brought and naturalized in Europe, from the Ottoman Empire, since the 16th century. They flower in spring and early spring, becoming one of the symbols of the season. In summer, after the flowers have faded, they enter a dormant period, the aerial parts of the plant withering completely. Tulips are flowers that are appreciated all over the world, being grown in gardens as ornamental plants or used as cut plants in bouquets and floral arrangements.