Narcissus poeticus /nɑː(r)ˈsɪsəs/
Common name: Poet's daffodil · Pheasant's eye · Poet's narcissus
Narcissus poeticus is a perennial bulbous plant in the amaryllis family, native to meadows of central and southern Europe. It bears fragrant white flowers with a small, flat central cup edged in red, blooming in late spring — later than most daffodils. Cultivated since ancient times, it is valued for its scent and elegant flowers and is a parent of many garden hybrids.
Care summary
Sun
Full sun to light shade
Water
Moderate while growing; dry in summer dormancy
Soil
Well-drained, moderately fertile loam
Hardiness
Zones 4–8
Mature height
About 30–45 cm (1–1.5 ft)
Pet safe
No — toxic to cats and dogs if eaten
Difficulty
Easy
Propagation
Multiply by dividing bulb offsets: lift crowded clumps after the foliage dies back in early summer, gently pull the small bulbs away from the parent, and replant immediately at about two to three times their own depth. Offsets typically flower within two to three years.
Fun facts
- It was one of the first daffodils to be cultivated, grown in gardens since classical antiquity.
- The name "pheasant's eye" refers to the red-rimmed central cup, said to resemble the bird's eye.
- Its flowers are a source of narcissus absolute, a prized ingredient in perfumery.
- It is associated with the Greek myth of Narcissus, the youth who fell in love with his own reflection.