The Plant Guide

Browse the Full Plant Guide

Hoop-petticoat daffodil

Narcissus bulbocodium var. conspicuus

nar-SIS-us Audio

The species daffodil N. bulbocodium var. conspicuus (Zones 3–9) has been around so long that no one can actually put a date on it. Its look is unusual: It does have six golden petals, but they are tiny, twisted, and often difficult to see. Its prominent rounded cup gives rise to its nickname, hoop petticoats. It prefers acidic soil and when happy, will reseed, blooming like buttercups in groups. Only 4 to 6 inches tall, it naturalizes itself in many areas.

CareGrow in average, well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. In autumn, plant bulbs from 1.5 to 5 times the bulbs' height (3 inches or more in cold climates). Under glass, grow in 1 part grit and 2 parts soil mix. Deadhead seed heads (except those of species, for dispersal) and allow leaves to photosynthesize for 6 weeks before cutting back, including plantings in turf. Lift and divide clumps if they become overcrowded or perform poorly.

Propagation Separate bulbs and replant in early summer or early fall.

Problems Narcissus bulb fly, narcissus nematode, bulb scale mite, slugs, narcissus basal rot, other fungal infections, narcissus yellow stripe virus, and other viruses.

  • Genus : Narcissus
  • Plant Height : 1 to 3 feet
  • Zones : 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
  • Plant Type : Bulbs
  • Uses : Containers
  • Tolerance : Deer Tolerant, Frost Tolerant
  • Characteristics : Fragrant Flowers
  • Light : Full Sun to Partial Shade
  • Maintenance : Low
  • Moisture : Medium Moisture
  • Growth Rate : Moderate
  • Bloom Time : Spring
  • Plant Seasonal Interest : Spring Interest
  • Flower Color : Yellow

Related Plants

Related Articles

More From the Plant Guide

Winter Interest

Partial Shade

Browse the Full Plant Guide