On a recent visit to Brookside Gardens, I was thrilled to find some early tulips in full bloom. With the recent cold weather and winds, I wasn’t sure what I’d find. What I found were several pots of Helmar Triumph Tulips.

In the bright sunlight, the shades of orange, yellow and red were incredible. Here are a few photos of the tulips.

(c) 2009 Patty Hankins

(c) 2009 Patty Hankins

(c) 2009 Patty Hankins

I also spent some time photographing the details of these amazing flowers. First – the colors and patterns on the outside of one of the petals.

(c) 2009 Patty Hankins

The texture and colors at the tops of a flower.

Helmar Tulip Petals (c) 2009 Patty Hankins

And finally, the center of one of the flowers.

Helmar Tulip Center (c) 2009 Patty Hankins

I can’t wait to get back to Brookside Gardens and photograph more of their amazing tulips.