Narcissus Butter and Eggs

Rich in colour, wonderfully fragrant and full of old-fashioned charm, Narcissus 'Butter and Eggs' is a delightful double daffodil that has been admired in cottage gardens for generations. Its richly ruffled blooms combine warm buttery-yellow outer petals with a full, golden-yellow centre, creating flowers that resemble miniature double roses or peonies.

Dating back to the 18th century, 'Butter and Eggs' is one of the oldest cultivated double narcissi and remains a favourite for its reliability and timeless beauty. Each sturdy stem carries a lavishly double flower with broad butter-yellow outer petals embracing a densely packed centre of deeper golden-yellow, giving every bloom exceptional depth and texture. The flowers are pleasantly fragrant and make excellent long-lasting cut flowers.

Flowering from April into May, 'Butter and Eggs' is perfect for cottage gardens, mixed borders, containers and naturalised plantings. The cheerful blooms pair beautifully with blue Camassias, Muscari, forget-me-nots and late tulips, while their strong stems ensure they stand proudly in the spring garden.

Easy to grow and dependable year after year, this heritage variety gradually forms impressive clumps when left undisturbed, rewarding gardeners with an increasingly abundant display each spring.

A charming heirloom daffodil whose richly double blooms bring warmth, fragrance and classic cottage garden appeal.

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant Narcissus bulbs in autumn, between September and November, while the soil remains warm enough for roots to establish before winter.

Where to Plant:
Choose a position in full sun or partial shade with fertile, well-drained soil. 'Butter and Eggs' is ideal for cottage gardens, borders, containers and naturalising beneath deciduous trees.

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant bulbs approximately 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) deep.
• Spacing: Space bulbs about 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) apart.
• Soil Prep: Improve heavy soils with compost and grit if necessary to ensure good drainage.

Watering:
Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil. Once established, bulbs require very little watering except during prolonged dry spells.

Aftercare Tips:

• Deadhead spent flowers to prevent seed production.
• Allow the foliage to die back naturally for at least six weeks after flowering.
• Apply a balanced fertiliser after flowering to encourage healthy bulbs and reliable blooms the following spring.

Top Tip:
Plant in generous drifts through cottage-style borders where the richly double flowers can mingle with forget-me-nots and tulips for a beautifully traditional spring display.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:
April – May (depending on season and conditions)

Height:
14–18" (35–45cm) (approx.)

Position:
Full sun or partial shade

Hardy Perennial