Narcissus 'Llanfair'

Narcissus 'Llanfair' is one of those quietly extraordinary daffodils that rewards a second glance, then a third. Opening in soft cream to pale greenish-yellow, Narcissus 'Llanfair' soon shifts through subtler shades, settling into a creamy perianth with a delicate pale greenish-yellow ring at the base. That refined colouring alone would be enough to earn it a place in the spring border, yet the real marvel is the trumpet. Exceptionally long and elegantly cylindrical, it extends with remarkable poise in a soft salmon-pink tone that gives Narcissus 'Llanfair' an almost porcelain quality. It is a flower of nuance rather than noise, which somehow makes it all the more memorable.

Planted in generous drifts or tucked into smaller, considered groups, Narcissus 'Llanfair' brings an artist’s eye for colour to the garden just when winter’s greys begin to feel a touch repetitive. Narcissus 'Llanfair' pairs beautifully with dusky tulips, silver foliage and early-flowering perennials, though it is perfectly capable of stealing the scene on its own. There is a lovely sense of balance in the flower’s proportions, with that long trumpet lending height and grace without ever appearing showy. Narcissus 'Llanfair' also makes a superb cut flower, its unusual colouring becoming even more noticeable indoors. For gardeners who prefer spring bulbs with elegance, individuality and a rather polished sense of style, 'Llanfair' is an easy choice.