2011 Tulip with Ladybug Colored Commemorative Quarter

Part of the Flowers and Creatures of Canada Quarter Series.

Every spring, tulips from Holland bloom in Canada’s capital, which is the home of the world’s largest tulip festival. Not only are the flowers a telltale sign of spring, they are the symbol of friendship between nations. In 1945-46, Holland presented over 100,000 prized tulip bulbs to Canada in thanks for Canada welcoming Holland’s Crown Princess and her daughters in 1940, and for Canadian soldiers’ efforts to liberate Holland during the Second World War.

If you’re lucky, you may spot a pretty, brightly-coloured ladybug inhabiting a vibrant tulip in the spring. Both are warmly welcomed by gardeners as harbingers of spring. The two also share a unique relationship. The ladybug uses the tulip as shelter from predators and as a source of sustenance; much like how Canada was to the Dutch Princesses. In return, the ladybug—one of nature’s most effective pesticides—keeps garden plants and flowers healthy throughout the growing season.