Daffodils

Snowdrop

Botanical name: Narcissus

Common name: Daffodils

 

Daffodils are one of the most popular and cheery heralds of spring. Planted in September, they spend several months developing roots before the flowers burst forth, usually between February and May. Ideal in containers, borders and lawns, they'll suit almost any garden style and situation.

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Looks

Daffodils have instantly recognisable flowers with a central trumpet surrounded by six petal-like tepals. Usually yellow or white, the flowers stand on sturdy stems, above slender leaves, reaching from just 20cm (8in) tall up to 50cm (20in), depending on the cultivar.

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Likes

Plant in early September, in fertile, well-drained conditions with plenty of sun. They are happy in containers as well as in the ground, where they do best planted at a depth of three times the height of the bulb.

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Dislikes

Daffodils dislike waterlogged soil, as well as very dry conditions and deep shade. Avoid shallow planting, overcrowding the bulbs, and cutting back the leaves before they die naturally.

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Did you know?

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• Daffodil bulbs are poisonous, causing a stomach upset if eaten. They are easily and regularly mistaken for onions, so to avoid any confusion always keep stored daffodil bulbs in labelled bags, and don’t plant them in vegetable plots.
  
  With thanks to RHS