Bulbs & tubersNarcissus pseudonarcissus
Daffodil
The Daffodil is one of the earliest spring bloomers, with distinctive yellow or white flowers that release a fresh, sweet scent. Blooming in March and April, daffodils naturalise easily in lawns and under trees. The bulbs are toxic to rodents, so they remain untouched.
Characteristics
- Sun
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Water
- Medium
- Height
- 30–50 cm
- Spread
- 10–15 cm
- Hardiness zone
- 3–9
- Family
- Amaryllidaceae
- Evergreen
- No
- Flower colors
- yellow, white
- Wildlife value
- bees
Bloom period
Care guide
Plant bulbs in autumn (September-November) at 10-15 cm depth in moist but well-drained soil. Sun or partial shade is sufficient. Water during dry spells in the growing season. Feeding is rarely needed if the soil is reasonably fertile.
Pruning tips
Remove spent flowers to prevent seed formation. Leave the foliage untouched for at least six weeks after flowering — it feeds the bulb. Do not tie the leaves together, as this hinders photosynthesis.
Good companions
Bulbs & tubersTulipa gesneriana
Garden Tulip
The Garden Tulip is the icon of the Dutch spring, with chalice-shaped flowers in virtually every imaginable colour. It blooms in April and May, transforming borders and pots into a colourful spectacle. Tulip bulbs are planted in autumn and reward with a reliable spring display.
Bulbs & tubersCrocus vernus
Spring Crocus
The Spring Crocus is one of the very first flowers to open in February and March, in shades of purple, yellow, or white. The small chalice-shaped blooms often appear before the foliage has fully developed. Crocuses naturalise beautifully in lawns and are an early food source for bees after winter.
Bulbs & tubersAllium giganteum
Giant Allium
Giant allium is a striking bulb plant with large, globe-shaped purple flower heads on sturdy stems. The blooms appear in May and June and attract plenty of bees and butterflies. The dried seed heads remain decorative in the border well into autumn.