Daffodil (Narcissus) 'Rip van Winkle'

3 bulbs
£11.49
£3.83 each
6 bulbs
£19.99
£3.33 each
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Named after the character in Washington Irving's story who slept for 20 years, this daffodil has been "waking up" in gardens every spring since it was first introduced in 1884.

A fascinating and quirky heirloom, 'Rip van Winkle' is a miniature Double daffodil that has been charming gardeners since the 19th century. This unique variety looks unlike any other daffodil, producing a spiky, star-like flower that is often compared to a dandelion or a thistle. The blooms are composed of multiple layers of narrow, pointed, pale greenish-yellow petals, creating a wonderfully wild and untamed appearance. Its short stature and very early bloom time make it a delightful character for the front of the border or a rock garden. 'Rip van Winkle' is perfect for those who appreciate the unusual and want to add a touch of historic, eccentric charm to their spring display.

Botanical name Narcissus 'Rip van Winkle'
Flower colour Yellow
Bulb size 11/+ cm
Established height 15-20 cm
Established spread 10 cm
Plant spacing 100 bulbs per m²
Leaf colour Green
Habit Clump-forming
Life cycle Perennial
Hardiness Fully Hardy
Years to establish 1st year
Sunlight Full Sun, Partial Shade
Position Exposed or Sheltered
Suitable for Rock Gardens, Front of Borders, Pots, Naturalising
Soil acidity Any
Soil moisture Well-drained
Soil type Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
RHS Award (AGM) Yes
Growing skill Easy to grow
Pollinator-friendly Yes
Deer resistant Yes

Where to Plant:

This is a quirky and charming heirloom daffodil, dating back to the 19th century. It produces unusual, spiky, multi-petalled double flowers of a greenish-yellow, looking more like a dandelion head than a classic daffodil. As a miniature variety, it is perfect for the front of a border, a rock or gravel garden, and is especially well-suited to growing in pots and containers where its unique form can be appreciated. It thrives in sun or light shade in well-drained soil and is an excellent naturaliser.

How to Plant:

You should plant the small bulbs in the autumn, anytime from September to November. Dig a hole and plant each bulb at a depth of about 10cm (4 inches), which is roughly twice the height of the bulb itself. Place the bulb in the hole with the pointed tip facing upwards and cover with soil. They look most effective when planted in generous drifts or clumps, so space them about 8-10cm apart to create a full display.

Aftercare:

This is a very tough and low-maintenance daffodil. The most important rule for ensuring a good display year after year is to allow the foliage to die back naturally for a minimum of six weeks after flowering has finished. Do not cut it back or tie it up during this crucial period of regeneration. It will multiply happily to form a dense and fascinating carpet of colour in early spring.

Planting and Flowering Calendar

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Key Features

Packed in paper

Packed peat-free

Great for Shade

Attracts wildlife

Low maintenance

RHS Award (AGM)

Rodent resistant

Perfect for pots

Naturalising

£11.49

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