Since its introduction to Netherlands in the late 1500s from central Asia, the tulip has become one of defining symbols of Netherlands. It has also evolved to a big business. Dutch flower bulb exports exceeded €1 billion annually, with tulips making up the largest share.

Keukenhof is one of the world’s most famous flower gardens, located near the town of Lisse in the Netherlands, between Amsterdam and Hague. The name “Keukenhof” means “kitchen garden.” The area was once part of the estate of a 15th-century castle where herbs and vegetables were grown for the castle kitchen. The modern flower park was established in 1949 to showcase the Dutch bulb-growing industry. The park covers about 32 hectares (79 acres) and showcases millions of flowers (tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths) each year. Each spring, it receives about 1.4 million visitors from all over the world.