The Albatross Daffodil, a distinguished variety within the Narcissus genus, signals spring’s arrival with elegance. Gardeners value this daffodil for its charming blooms, which add a refined presence to spring landscapes. Its distinctive beauty and reliable performance make it a perennial favorite.
Albatross Daffodil Characteristics
The Albatross Daffodil (Narcissus ‘Albatross’) is a Large-Cupped Daffodil in Division 2. It features creamy white petals, often with a slight propeller-like twist, surrounding a frilled cup. This cup displays shades of lemon that mature to orange, sometimes with an orange rim. Flowers reach 18-20 inches tall, emerging in mid to late spring on long, curved stems.
Planting Your Albatross Daffodil
For successful Albatross Daffodil growth, select a planting site with full sun to partial shade, ideally receiving at least six hours of sunlight daily. In warmer climates, afternoon shade can help preserve bloom color and extend the flowering period. Plant bulbs in well-draining soil, as waterlogged conditions can cause rot. Amending heavy clay soils with organic matter improves drainage and provides essential nutrients.
Plant Albatross Daffodil bulbs in autumn before the ground freezes. This allows bulbs to establish a robust root system before winter. Plant bulbs approximately 6 inches deep and 5-6 inches apart, with the pointed end facing upward. After planting, water thoroughly to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets.
Ongoing Care and Maintenance
Once established, Albatross Daffodils require minimal care during their active growth. Water generously during dry spells to maintain consistently moist, but not soggy, soil. Reduce watering once blooms fade and the plant enters dormancy. Apply a light application of a balanced bulb fertilizer, such as a slow-release 10-10-10 formula, in early spring as shoots emerge.
Daffodils are resistant to most pests and diseases, including deer and rabbits. Maintain a weed-free area around the bulbs to reduce competition for nutrients and moisture. If clumps become overcrowded over several years, indicated by decreased flowering, division can rejuvenate the plants.
Post-Bloom Care
After Albatross Daffodil flowers fade, removing spent blooms, known as deadheading, is beneficial. This prevents the plant from expending energy on seed production, redirecting it to the bulb for next year’s bloom. Remove only the flower and stem, leaving the foliage intact.
Allowing the foliage to yellow and die back naturally is important for replenishing the bulb’s energy reserves. Leaves photosynthesize, converting sunlight into sugars stored in the bulb for future growth. This process takes about six to eight weeks after flowering. Do not cut back or tie up green foliage prematurely, as this hinders the bulb’s ability to store energy, resulting in fewer or smaller blooms the following season. Once leaves have fully yellowed and withered, they can be removed.