Large-Cupped Daffodil 'Mrs R.O. Backhouse' (Narcissus)

Large-Cupped Daffodil 'Mrs R.O. Backhouse': A Historic Pink Pioneer

Narcissus 'Mrs R.O. Backhouse' is a landmark cultivar, one of the first daffodils with a distinctly pink cup, introduced before 1921 by Backhouse. It features pure white, overlapping petals and a funnel-shaped cup that opens pale yellow and matures to a lovely salmon-pink with a frilled rim. The flowers are borne on 14-16 inch stems in mid-spring.

Historical Significance

This cultivar was a breakthrough in daffodil breeding, proving that pink coloration could be achieved. It remains a beautiful and reliable garden plant. Plant in autumn in well-drained soil, sun or part shade. It naturalizes well. A piece of horticultural history that still earns its place in the modern garden.

Taxonomy

• Family: Amaryllidaceae
• Genus: Narcissus
• Cultivar: 'Mrs R.O. Backhouse'
• Hybridizer: Backhouse, pre-1921