Narcissus Grand Soleil d'Or

Fill your home with the scent of spring with Narcissus 'Grand Soleil d'Or', one of the finest and most fragrant indoor flowering narcissi. Producing clusters of vibrant golden-yellow flowers with glowing orange cups, this heirloom variety has been cherished for centuries for its intoxicating perfume and ease of flowering indoors during the darkest months of the year.

Dating back to the 17th century, 'Grand Soleil d'Or' is a classic Tazetta Narcissus, producing up to 8–12 beautifully scented blooms on every sturdy stem. The brilliant golden-yellow petals surround rounded, deep orange cups, creating a striking contrast that brightens windowsills and conservatories throughout late winter. Its rich, sweet fragrance is one of the strongest of any narcissus, making it a favourite for bringing the scent of spring indoors.

Unlike many daffodils, 'Grand Soleil d'Or' is exceptionally easy to force indoors. Simply plant the bulbs into pots in autumn and enjoy weeks of colour and perfume from December through March, depending on planting time. In the mildest parts of the UK it can also be grown outdoors in a warm, sheltered border with excellent drainage.

Perfect for decorative containers and long-lasting cut flowers, 'Grand Soleil d'Or' brings Mediterranean warmth, glorious fragrance and timeless elegance to your home.

A classic indoor narcissus that has delighted gardeners for generations with its vibrant flowers and unforgettable perfume.

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant bulbs in autumn between September and November. For indoor flowering, stagger your planting every few weeks for a succession of beautifully scented blooms throughout winter.

Growing Outdoors:
Choose a sunny or lightly shaded, sheltered position with fertile, well-drained soil. In colder parts of the UK, planting in containers allows the bulbs to be moved to a sheltered location during severe frosts.

• Depth: Plant bulbs approximately 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) deep.
• Spacing: Space bulbs 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) apart.
• Watering: Water well after planting and keep the soil lightly moist during active growth.

Growing Indoors (Forcing):
Plant bulbs into decorative pots filled with good-quality multipurpose compost, positioning the bulbs close together but not touching. Leave the tips of the bulbs just visible above the compost surface.

• Water after planting until the compost is just moist.
• Place the pots in a cool, dark place (around 9–12°C) for 8–10 weeks while roots develop.
• Once shoots reach approximately 5 cm (2 inches) tall, move the pots to a bright, cool room.
• Avoid placing pots close to radiators or direct heat, as cooler conditions help prolong flowering.

Aftercare:

• Deadhead spent flowers but leave the foliage until it naturally dies back.
• Outdoor bulbs will return reliably each spring if left undisturbed.
• Bulbs forced indoors often flower less successfully the following year but may be planted outdoors after flowering, where they can recover and eventually bloom again.

Top Tip:
Plant several pots at two to three-week intervals throughout autumn for a continuous display of beautifully fragrant flowers indoors from Christmas through to early spring.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:

Indoors: December – March (depending on planting time)
Outdoors: February – March

Height:
12–16" (30–40cm) (approx.)

Position:
Bright, cool position indoors, or full sun outdoors in a sheltered location.

Half Hardy Perennial