bulb · design plant record

Narcissus (garden daffodils)

Daffodil groups and cultivars

A spring-flowering layer that leaves a summer gap. Select a named cultivar before setting exact depth, spacing or flowering expectations.

Height at maturity

0.2–0.76 m (0.7–2.5 ft)

Spread at maturity

0.15–0.31 m (0.5–1 ft)

Light

Sun / Part shade

Moisture

Moist, draining soil

Source-reported USDA zones

4–8 · verify subzone and cultivar

Principal seasonal role

Spring

Fit it to the site

Draining soil with moisture available during active growth. This genus-level range does not establish requirements for every cultivar.

Reject the assumption that tender paperwhites and hardy garden daffodils are interchangeable. Bulb spacing differs from the eventual spread of an established clump.

Keep the care in the decision

Allow foliage to yellow naturally after flowering. Record bulb positions so later work does not damage them; divide declining crowded clumps following appropriate guidance.

Origin & safety checks

Species from several regions of Europe, North Africa and Asia; garden cultivars need exact identification.

NC State flags poisonous plant parts and contact dermatitis, with bulbs especially concerning. Keep ornamental bulbs distinct from food crops and manage child/pet exposure.

Check current invasive restrictions with your local plant-health or extension authority. For pets, use the exact botanical name in a veterinary toxicity reference; for potential ingestion or exposure, get appropriate professional advice rather than relying on a design guide.