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The name Tulip was derived from the word tulpant, 
meaning turban, so called from its likeness to a turban. 
Originally found in the Southern and Eastern part 
of Europe, Persia and Asia Minor, by botanists and trav- 
elers, the first Tulips, together with herbs from far lands, 
were distributed by druggists at prices beyond the reach 
of all but the wealthiest plant fanciers. 
In the early 17th century, as Dumas’ novel “La 
Tulipe Noire” indicates, the wild speculations of Tulip 
fanciers reached such proportions that fabulous sums 
were paid for one bulb. 
Gradually it became apparent that the soil and cli- 
mate of The Netherlands were particularly suited to the 
culture of flower bulbs. This eventually developed into 
a major industry and so Tulips found their way into the 
gardens of the world. 
Clean as a lady, cool as glass, 
Fresh without fragrance the tulip was. 
The craftsman, who carved her of metal, prayed: 
“Live, oh thou lovely!” Half metal she stayed. 
— HUMBERT WOLFE. 
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