Narcissus 'King Alfred Improved' Bulbs

The classic daffodil for American gardens, Narcissus 'King Alfred Improved' is a large-flowered, gloriously bright trumpet variety that is among the first to open in springtime. Its 4-inch blooms of pure yellow arise when the temperatures are still chilly and little else has awoken in the garden. Among the most welcome harbingers of spring, it belongs front and center in the sunny border as well as in fine containers on the patio, deck, and porch.

King Alfred was introduced in England in 1899, and instantly became the popular favorite on both sides of the Atlantic. Huge flowers and early bloomtime made a big impact on the landscape, and this trumpet (Division I) daffodil was soon found to naturalize wonderfully, as well. Later breeding enlarged the flowers still further and reduced the stem length, giving 'King Alfred Improved' better weather tolerance and a longer life after cutting. The best of old and new in one glorious daffodil.

Expect these stems to reach 16 to 18 inches tall, not the highest by any means in the daffodil garden, but among the most resilient and long-lasting. An excellent choice for containers, 'King Alfred Improved' is a classic trumpet narcissus with a yellow perianth and long yellow trumpet; early-blooming and weather-resistant. saves space and flowers very reliably, season after season. Even a small planting made this fall will colonize into a nice stand over time, increasing your garden beauty with each passing year.

Daffodils are one of the easiest and most rewarding of all bulbs to grow. Deer and other animals leave them alone, and they are generally untroubled by pests or disease. Given deep planting, well-drained soil, and full sunshine, daffodils will grow, bloom, and spread for decades. Consider planting them with daylilies so that their dying foliage (which must be allowed to wither and fall over before being cut, so that the bulb has enough nutrients stored for next year) is hidden by the strappy leaves of the daylilies. Bearded Iris is also a good companion. And if you have a rose garden, by all means add another season of beauty to the display by planting Narcissus 'King Alfred Improved' at the feet of all your hybrid teas, floribundas, and shrub roses. Enjoy this classic variety, a landscape staple.