Royal Horticultural Society Award of Garden Merit 1993; Wister Award of the American Daffodil Society 2014
Narcissus Pheasant's Eye, also known as the poet's daffodil, is a classic heirloom variety cherished for its powerful fragrance and timeless beauty. Awarded the Royal Horticultural Society Award of Garden Merit in 1993 and the Wister Award of the American Daffodil Society in 2014, this 1956 Lionel Richardson introduction remains a beloved choice for gardeners and florists. Its intoxicating scent, used by French perfume houses, fills the garden with a sweet aroma that lingers in the air, making it an exceptional addition to both landscapes and bouquets.
When
planted in the fall, Narcissus Pheasant's Eye bulbs begin their show in late spring, just as many other daffodils are starting to fade. This variety is a true standout with its elegant pure white petals surrounding a small, bright yellow cup rimmed in red. These flowers, typically borne singly on long, slender stems that reach a mature height of 12 inches, are not only visually stunning but also attract pollinators like butterflies and hummingbirds to your garden. Their long-lasting blooms are ideal for creating graceful, fragrant late-spring bouquets that bring a touch of nature indoors.
As a member of the Narcissus poeticus species (syn. N. poeticus var. recurves), Pheasant's Eye daffodils have an upright, clumping habit and a fast growth rate. They are known for their ability to multiply and naturalize easily, forming sprawling clumps of long, flat, strap-like leaves and showy blooms that return year after year. In ideal conditions, ample space, sunlight, water, and fertilizer, these daffodils can thrive for decades, offering a reliable source of beauty and fragrance each spring.
Pheasant's Eye daffodils are versatile and can be planted in groups or masses to create striking displays in mixed beds, borders, and containers. They are particularly effective when planted in large sweeping drifts across open woodland areas, under deciduous trees, or in smaller groupings in front of shrubs. These daffodils mix beautifully with ground covers and other spring-blooming bulbs, adding layers of texture and color to your garden. Additionally, they can be forced indoors, bringing their delightful fragrance and classic elegance into your home during the winter months.
Narcissus Pheasant's Eye is a cold-hardy perennial that thrives in USDA Zones 3 and above, making it a reliable choice for gardeners in cooler climates. These daffodils are virtually foolproof, requiring minimal maintenance while delivering maximum impact. They perform best in sunny to partly shady locations with rich, fertile, well-draining soil that has a neutral to acidic pH. Water the daffodils during their growth period, but be mindful not to overwater, as bulbs prefer well-drained conditions. When planting, space the bulbs about 8 inches apart and plant them 6 inches deep to ensure they have enough room to grow and multiply.
To encourage robust flowering, feed the bulbs with a balanced fertilizer, like Espoma Organic® Bulb-tone® Bulb and Flower Food, as soon as growth begins in the spring. After the flowers have bloomed, allow the foliage to die back naturally. This process is crucial, as the leaves continue to photosynthesize, storing energy in the bulbs for next year's growth. Once the leaves have fully faded, they can be cut back.
Pheasant's Eye daffodils are relatively pest-free, deer-resistant, and tolerant of a range of garden conditions. With their late-blooming flowers, powerful fragrance, and ease of care, these daffodils are a must-have for any garden, offering elegance, charm, and a touch of history that will be cherished for generations.
Planting bulbs is straightforward and fills your garden with reliable bursts of color and seasonal delights. With our Bulb Planting Chart and Bulb Care Instructions, you'll find everything you need to create a vibrant, flourishing garden. From selecting the perfect spot to caring for your bulbs, these articles are your go-to resource for cultivating beauty and success with bulbs in your garden.
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