bulb corm tuber RHS Award

Actaea Daffodil

Narcissus pseudonarcissus 'Actaea'

The Story

Plant Bio

A classic Poeticus daffodil featuring large, pure white petals surrounding a small, shallow yellow cup edged in brilliant red. It is known for its strong, spicy fragrance.

Prized for its late-season blooms, distinct coloration, and exceptional fragrance. It is an RHS Award of Garden Merit winner.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesAdds early spring fragrance and bright yellow color to gardens.
Practical UsesNaturalizes easily, requiring minimal care once established.
Ecological BenefitsSupports early pollinators like bees.
SpeciesNarcissus pseudonarcissusWild Daffodil

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Bulb Corm Tuber

Height

16 inches

Width

6 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Late spring

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

In flower about 1 month of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck bulbs 6 inches deep in well-draining soil in fall.
  2. Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil.
  3. Mist foliage regularly during active growth in spring.
  4. Fertilize with a balanced bulb fertilizer in early spring.
  5. Remove spent flowers to encourage bulb health.
  6. Allow foliage to yellow naturally before cutting back.

Pro Tip

Plant bulbs in groups for a naturalized look and best bloom display.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water during dry periods 🌱
  • Deadhead spent flowers for tidiness
  • Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring
  • Plant in well-drained soil

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot ❌
  • Don't cut foliage prematurely
  • Avoid planting in heavy clay soil without amendment
  • Don't forget to mulch to conserve moisture

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Divide
Fertilize
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Fragrant borderNaturalized woodland gardenEarly spring foreground

Companion Plants

Hyacinths Crocuses Tulips Primroses

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Actaea Daffodil questions

What zones can Actaea Daffodil grow in?

Actaea Daffodil is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Actaea Daffodil deer resistant?

Yes — Actaea Daffodil is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Actaea Daffodil bloom?

Actaea Daffodil typically blooms in late spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Actaea Daffodil need full sun?

Actaea Daffodil does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Keep exploring

Grow Actaea Daffodil with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.