Alphabetical Plant Listing

Narcissus bulbocodium (Hoop Petticoat Daffodil)

Hoop Petticoat Daffodils (Narcissus Bulbocodium)


Reminiscent of a hoop petticoat caught in the wind in early to mid-spring, Narcissus bulbocodium is by far the most widespread of the hoop petticoat daffodils. The main characteristic of this charming daffodil is short, very narrow petals and huge, flaring, funnel-shaped cups. Low-growing, it blooms prolifically, 3-5 blossoms per bulb, over a long season. Its attractive foliage of dark green leaves, resembling clumps of chives, is almost evergreen. Thriving in sunny locations and acid soils, it is excellent for naturalizing as it multiplies quickly and self-seeds as well. Rock gardens and naturalized areas are ideal places to plant these dwarf daffodils.

  • Low-growing, about 6-10 in. tall (15-25 cm), this charming daffodil naturalizes well and comes back year after year.
  • This perennial bulb is a recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society
  • Easily grown in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun. Keep the soil moist during the growing season, but reduce watering after foliage begins to die back. Prefers acid soil which retains plenty of moisture in the spring growing season and a sunny spot.
  • A welcomed addition to beds, borders, containers, rock gardens, around shrubs, under deciduous trees, or in naturalized areas. Provides spectacular drifts of color when planted en masse or mixed with any other flowering bulbs. For best visual impact, plant in groups (at least 6 bulbs).
  • Deer and rabbit resistant!
  • Propagate by removing offsets as the leaves fade in early summer
  • Ingestion may cause severe discomfort. Can also be a skin irritant.
  • There are so many daffodil types that they are classified into 12 groups, mostly reflecting the number or size of the flowers per stem or the shape of the petals.

Guide Information

Hardiness 3 - 9
Heat Zones 1 - 9
Climate Zones 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 3A, 3B
Plant Type Bulbs
Plant Family Narcissus - Daffodils
Exposure Full Sun
Season of Interest Spring
Height 6" - 10" (15cm - 25cm)
Spread 2" (5cm)
Spacing 2" (5cm)
Depth 5" (12cm)
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained
Characteristics Plant of Merit, Showy
Tolerance Deer, Drought, Rabbit
Landscaping Ideas Beds and Borders, Patio and Containers
Garden Styles City and Courtyard, Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage, Prairie and Meadow, Traditional Garden

While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.

Guide Information

Hardiness 3 - 9
Heat Zones 1 - 9
Climate Zones 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 3A, 3B
Plant Type Bulbs
Plant Family Narcissus - Daffodils
Exposure Full Sun
Season of Interest Spring
Height 6" - 10" (15cm - 25cm)
Spread 2" (5cm)
Spacing 2" (5cm)
Depth 5" (12cm)
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained
Characteristics Plant of Merit, Showy
Tolerance Deer, Drought, Rabbit
Landscaping Ideas Beds and Borders, Patio and Containers
Garden Styles City and Courtyard, Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage, Prairie and Meadow, Traditional Garden
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