White Flower Farm
Narcissus 'Rose of May'
Best fragrant perennial for gardeners seeking low-maintenance, deer-resistant spring blooms.
Experience the early signs of spring with the Narcissus 'Rose of May'. This exquisite Double Daffodil boasts whorls of pale ivory petals, reminiscent of a Gardenia, and offers a delightful fragrance. Bred in Ireland, this compact variety typically produces two 2½" flowers per stem, making it an excellent choice for cutting. These vigorous, long-lived bulbs are resistant to deer and voles, thriving in sunny, well-drained spots and multiplying with minimal care. They bloom late in the season, extending the floral display and creating a lasting horticultural legacy.
$22.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
16
/ 3088
#16 in Plant & Flower Bulbs
Price vs Category Average
-7%
Below average
Common Name
Double Daffodil
/ Double Daffodil
Who it's for
- Collectors desiring sophisticated, double-flowered alternatives to standard daffodils
- Gardeners seeking fragrant blooms for patios and cut arrangements
- Planners looking to bridge the gap between spring and summer
Who should skip it
- Owners of dry, sandy soil who prefer drought-tolerant bulbs
- Gardeners in regions prone to heavy late spring storms
- Landscapers wanting rapid, low-maintenance naturalization for mass plantings
Performance breakdown
Fragrance potency
Gardenia-like scent profile provides an exceptional sensory experience for spring gardens.
Pest resistance
Reliable defense against deer and voles ensures worry-free seasonal growth.
Cut flower utility
Sturdy stems and double-bloom structure make these ideal for indoor arrangements.
Naturalization potential
Vigorous, long-lived bulbs multiply easily for a lasting horticultural legacy.
Bloom season extension
Late-season flowering effectively bridges the gap between spring and summer.
Maintenance requirements
Thrives with minimal intervention in sunny, well-drained soil conditions.
Key Specs
Common Name
Double Daffodil
Hardiness Zones
5-8S, 10W
Exposure
Sun to Part Shade
Blooms In
May
Mature Height
16 inches
Spacing
5-6 inches
Ships as
BULB
Fragrance
Yes
Features
- Gardenia-like double flower form
- Delightfully fragrant blooms
- Excellent for cut flower arrangements
- Resistant to deer and voles
- Blooms late in the spring season
- Compact and vigorous growth
- Long-lived perennial bulbs
- Adds early spring color
What customers say
Customers overwhelmingly value the Narcissus 'Rose of May' for its superior aesthetic and sensory experience. Reviewers consistently highlight the exceptional quality of the robust bulbs, which reliably yield strong stems. The primary satisfaction driver is the unique, creamy white double bloom, often featuring a pale yellow center, resembling a miniature rose. This visual appeal is matched by an intense, sweet fragrance described as superior to standard daffodils. Gardeners appreciate its longevity and ability to naturalize well, offering increasing returns. While the premium price point is noted, most consider the 'Rose of May' a worthwhile luxury investment for those prioritizing unique elegance and powerful spring scent.
Know before you buy
Unlike common trumpet-style daffodils, this variety features a double flower form with whorls of ivory petals that resemble a gardenia. It is also noted for its strong, pleasant fragrance and late-season bloom time.
Yes, Narcissus 'Rose of May' contains natural compounds that make them unpalatable to deer and voles. They are a reliable choice for gardens where these animals are known to browse.
These bulbs should be planted in the fall. This allows them to establish their root systems before the ground freezes, ensuring they are ready to bloom the following May.
Each stem typically produces two flowers, each measuring 2½ inches across. Because they are vigorous growers, they will multiply over time, providing a fuller display each year.
Absolutely. Their sturdy stems, gardenia-like appearance, and fragrance make them an excellent choice for cutting and bringing indoors.
They perform best in full sun to partial shade. Ensure they are planted in well-drained soil, as they do not tolerate standing water, which can cause the bulbs to rot.
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Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
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$22