Narcissus Elka

One of the finest miniature daffodils ever introduced, Narcissus 'Elka' is a charming Trumpet Daffodil (RHS Division 1), celebrated for its graceful flowers, delightful fragrance and remarkable colour transformation. Bred by the renowned plantsman Alec Gray, this exceptional variety has earned the prestigious RHS Award of Garden Merit for its outstanding garden performance.

Each elegant bloom opens with pristine milky-white petals surrounding a long, slender pale lemon-yellow trumpet. Over several weeks, the trumpet gradually softens to a beautiful creamy white, creating an enchanting display where newly opened flowers contrast beautifully with older blooms. This subtle colour change gives established clumps an ever-evolving elegance throughout the flowering season.

Flowering in early spring, 'Elka' is among the first daffodils to bloom, bringing welcome colour when little else is flowering. Its compact habit makes it perfect for rockeries, alpine gardens, containers, the front of borders and naturalising through short grass. Despite its petite size, it is remarkably floriferous and returns reliably year after year, gradually forming attractive clumps.

A delightful miniature daffodil whose refined beauty, early flowering and changing colours make it a true collector's favourite.

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant Narcissus bulbs in autumn, ideally between September and November, before the ground freezes and while the soil remains workable.

Where to Plant:
Choose a position in full sun or partial shade with fertile, well-drained soil. 'Elka' is ideal for rockeries, containers, alpine gardens, borders and naturalising in short grass.

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant bulbs approximately 10 cm (4 inches) deep.
• Spacing: Space bulbs about 8–10 cm (3–4 inches) apart.
• Soil Prep: Improve poor soils with compost or well-rotted organic matter. Add grit to heavy soils to improve drainage.

Watering:
Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil. Once established, only water during prolonged dry spells in spring.

Aftercare Tips:

• Allow the foliage to die back naturally for at least six weeks after flowering.
• Remove faded flower heads if seed is not required.
• Leave bulbs undisturbed so they can gradually multiply into attractive clumps.

Top Tip:
Plant near paths, in alpine beds or in decorative containers where the delicate colour change from soft lemon to creamy white can be appreciated up close.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:
February – March (Early Spring)

Height:
6–10" (15–25cm) (approx.)

Position:
Full sun or partial shade

Hardy Perennial