Originally from Persia and Turkey, tulips were brought to Europe in the 16th century,
where they got their common name from the Turkish word for gauze (with which turbans
were wrapped) - reflecting the turban-like appearance of a tulip in full bloom. By
the 17th century, the popularity of tulips, particularly in the Netherlands, became
so great that the price of a single bulb soared to new heights, causing markets to
crash and putting into motion "tulip mania."

Although different tulip colors carry distinct meanings - yellow tulips symbolizing
cheerful thoughts, white conveying forgiveness and purple representing royalty - a
Turkish legend may be responsible for the red tulip's symbolism. The story goes that
a prince named Farhad was love struck by a maiden named Shirin. When Farhad learned
that Shirin had been killed, he was so overcome with grief that he killed
himself - riding his horse over the edge of a cliff. It's said that a scarlet tulip
sprang up from each droplet of his blood, giving the red tulip the meaning "perfect love."

The 11th wedding anniversary flower, it's said that the tulip’s velvety black center
represents a lover's heart, darkened by the heat of passion. With the power to rival
roses in their red variety and the sweet charm to express simple joy when yellow,
it’s no wonder that in addition to all its other symbolism, in the language of
flowers, a tulip bouquet represents elegance and grace.

from http://www.teleflora.com/tulips/flowers-plants/tulip-detail.asp