The “Incomparable” Daffodil – Narcissus incomparabilis
Introduction to Narcissus incomparabilis
The “Incomparable” daffodil, known scientifically as Narcissus incomparabilis, is an elegant and unparalleled in beauty. The heirloom Narcissus “Incomparable” has a subtle and refined petal/trumpet combination and a reliability as a perennial that we love. This is the single version of the ‘Butter and Eggs’ – also called ‘Orange Phoenix’ or even ‘Bacon and Eggs.’ Sometimes the overly large trumpets of some daffodils can be somewhat out of place in the garden.
N. incomparabilis is never out of place in the garden. It is the perfect blend of a reliable perennial heirloom Narcissus and a romantic trumpet shape of a daffodil. As seen in the pictures on this post, they are often found under deciduous trees in clumps on sites that were once old house garden sites.
Characteristics of Narcissus incomparabilis
- Bloom: N. incomparabilis is never out of place in the garden. This bloom combines the traditional trumpet characteristics of a daffodil with the more whimsical and romantic beauty of an unconventional flower. The petals on this daffodil seem to each float by themselves while tied together by the center trumpet. This gives the bloom an almost playful feel to it like children’s excitement on the first warm day of spring. Rare might be a strong word, but we don’t see it as often as others and are always excited when we do.
- Bloom Time: The “Incomparable” daffodil is in full bloom this week, which is the first week of March. Since this bulb works best in zones 6-8, the beginning of March is usually late enough to protect it from the winter weather though it has stood the test of time to endure whatever nature brings. You can count on a longer bloom time with this bulb than many simply because it blooms during the temperate lull between a cold winter and the sometimes harsh spring rains. You can cut the blooms and bring them in for a lovely centerpiece as well.
- Easy to Grow: Like other heirloom Narcissus bulbs the “Incomparable” daffodil is easy to grow. The best thing that you can do is dig a hole and put the bulb in promptly so that it doesn’t have time to dry out. With heirloom bulbs, you really don’t have to use fertilizer or anything else. These hearty Texas bulbs endure heat, drought, and storm. The “Incomparable” will spread once established.
- Pest Resistance but Pollinator Receptive: The “Incomparable” bulb is perfectly suited for pollinators holding pollen deep within the trumpet for protection.
Conclusion for the “Incomparable” Daffodil
We’ve had some disappointed customers in San Antonio and Houston who would love to try this bulb, but if you are in Zones 6-8, you should definitely give this daffodil a try. It is worthy of cottage gardens, formal gardens, forgotten gardens, and your garden! We often have them for sale at www.southernbulbs.com.
