Tazetta-type daffodils, including the paperwhites that can be forced into bloom indoors during the winter, are also fragrant. ‘Avalanche’ has a cluster of 10 to 20 tiny flowers, creating almost an entire bouquet on one stem. Its flowers, with white petals and pale-yellow cups, have a wonderful musky-sweet fragrance. Since it is hardy to Zone 6, it can be enjoyed in many gardens. It shows off even more when combined with plants like Tulipa ‘Pink Impression’, Ornithogalum balansae, and pansies.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsN. ‘Avalanche’ was a favorite of Thomas Jefferson, although he probably knew it as N. ‘Seventeen Sisters’ (1700).
CareGrow in average, well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. In autumn, plant bulbs from 1.5 to 5 times the bulbs' height (3 inches or more in cold climates). Under glass, grow in 1 part grit and 2 parts soil mix. Deadhead seed heads (except those of species, for dispersal) and allow leaves to photosynthesize for 6 weeks before cutting back, including plantings in turf. Lift and divide clumps if they become overcrowded or perform poorly.
PropagationSeparate bulbs and replant in early summer or early fall.
ProblemsNarcissus bulb fly, narcissus nematode, bulb scale mite, slugs, narcissus basal rot, other fungal infections, narcissus yellow stripe virus, and other viruses.
- Genus : Narcissus
- Plant Height : 1 to 3 feet
- Zones : 6, 7, 8, 9
- Plant Type : Bulbs
- Uses : Containers
- Tolerance : Deer Tolerant, Frost Tolerant
- Characteristics : Fragrant Flowers
- Light : Full Sun to Partial Shade
- Maintenance : Low
- Moisture : Medium Moisture
- Growth Rate : Moderate
- Bloom Time : Spring
- Plant Seasonal Interest : Spring Interest
- Flower Color : White
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