Also known as Daffodil · 2k saves
Narcissus
Narcissus, the genus most gardeners know as daffodil. We track 45 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 24 most-saved Narcissus varieties
See all 45 Narcissus varieties →Search this genus →
7 species of Narcissus
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Narcissus in Sow
Save the Narcissus you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Narcissus
Whats common across all Narcissus varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 40 most-grown of them.
The Narcissus year
- PlantSeptember–November100% of varieties
Plant bulbs 6 inches deep in well-drained soil during fall
- DeadheadMarch and April100% of varieties
Remove spent flowers, but leave foliage until it yellows naturally
- FertilizeFebruary and March98% of varieties
Apply bulb fertilizer as shoots emerge in early spring
- DivideJune and July93% of varieties
Divide overcrowded clumps every 3-5 years after foliage dies back
Do
- Water regularly during active growth 🌱
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring
- Allow foliage to die back naturally
- Apply balanced fertilizer in early spring
- Water during dry periods 🌱
Avoid
- Avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot ❌
- Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
- Avoid overwatering to prevent rot ❌
- Avoid planting in poorly drained soil
What goes wrong with Narcissus
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Narcissus bulb fly | Larvae burrow into bulbs causing rot | Use organic insecticidal soap or neem oil |
| Narcissus Bulb Fly | Larvae burrow into bulbs causing rot | Use organic insecticidal soap or apply beneficial nematodes |
| Aphids | Sticky residue and distorted leaves | Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil |
| Basal Rot | Bulbs become soft and rotted | Ensure well-draining soil and avoid overwatering |
| Basal rot | Soft, rotting bulbs with foul smell | Ensure well-draining soil and avoid overwatering |
| Gray Mold | Gray fuzzy mold on leaves and flowers | Improve air circulation and apply fungicide if necessary |
Making more Narcissus
Division
- Dig up clumps in late summer or early fall
- Gently separate offsets with a clean knife
- Plant divisions 6 inches deep in prepared soil
- Water thoroughly after planting
Dividing bulbs
- Lift bulbs after foliage dies back (late summer).
- Gently separate offsets with a sterile knife.
- Replant immediately at same depth.
- Water thoroughly after planting.
- Repeat every 3-4 years for best results.
Narcissus questions
How many types of Narcissus are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 45 distinct Narcissus varieties. The most popular — ranked by 2k real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Narcissus grow in?
Across its varieties, Narcissus covers USDA Zones 4–10. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Narcissus bloom?
Most Narcissus varieties bloom in early spring, mid-spring, mid to late spring. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Narcissus should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.