Delightful daffodils - both old and new
Both old and new varieties of daffodil have their merits. Ron Scamp, daffodil grower and winner of many RHS Gold medals, selects some of each that are worth trying.
Heritage daffodils
The following are a few that have stood the test of time and stand out for their vigour and beauty.
White Lady
Registered pre-1898 and at that time received many awards of merit for its vigorous habit, lovely white perianth (petals) and soft yellow cupped flowers held on long stems above the foliage. On a warm spring day it has a light, delicate scent.
Bath’s Flame
Registered pre-1913, this has amazing vigour and produces heaps of tall pale yellow flowers with red rimmed cups.
Lucifer
Registered pre-1897. This beauty has creamy white petals with a soft yellow and orange cup; a perfect companion to the former varieties.
Maximus Superbus
Registered pre-1851; a real old fashion trumpet daffodil, it's a strong grower with bold colour and deeply lobed trumpet. To some it has the real old-fashioned daffodil scent.
Bartley
Registered pre-1934, this is one of the early varieties bred using the miniature species N.cyclamineus. It is short in stature and very hardy.
Modern daffodils
Below are some modern varieties daffodil enthusiasts can try.
Vernal Prince
The brightly coloured white and yellow flower is held well above the foliage and stands well, it received the RHS Award of Garden Merit (AGM).
Tehidy
A modern version of the orange/red rimmed flower; this has strong growth habit and broad, smooth pale coloured flowers.
Young Blood
A large bold and brightly coloured flower with strong growth, it is a superb choice for the discerning gardener.
Gold Finger
A really good example of a modern trumpet daffodil, with a golden yellow and broad perianth, it's a very strong grower with good foliage and stems.
Rapture
A perfect example of the best modern cyclamineus hybrids. It has a graceful, reflexing perianth and long trumpet-shaped corona. It's a must for any garden.