Rip Van Winkle Daffodil Bulbs

• Variety: Rip Van Winkle
• Division: 4 — Double
• Colour: Yellow, spiky star shape
• Height: 15cm
• Flowering: March–April
• Sold as: Premium-size dry bulbs, hand-graded
• Plant: September to November
• Delivered: Autumn by courier. Collection from Castle Cary also available

Rip Van Winkle Daffodil – A Spiky Little Star at Ground Level

Rip Van Winkle is a dwarf double daffodil with narrow, tapering petals that form a spiky yellow star — more sea urchin than traditional daffodil. At just 15cm, it is one of the smallest narcissi you can grow, which makes it perfect for the front of a border, for planting in grass where taller varieties would look out of scale, or for rockeries and raised beds where the unusual flower form can be admired up close.

The double flowers are entirely yellow, though the shade varies from rich gold at the centre to paler lemon at the tips. It naturalises freely, increasing by offsets year after year. Plant a group of twelve and in three or four years you will have fifty.

Planting Partners

Plant at the front of taller daffodils for a tiered effect, or scatter among crocuses and snowdrops for an early spring carpet.

Why Ashridge?

Premium-size bulbs, imported direct from the Netherlands and hand-graded by us. Bigger bulbs mean stronger flowers. Guaranteed, delivered by courier, Which? Best Plant Supplier. Real people in Somerset if anything isn't right. Browse all our flower bulbs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Rip Van Winkle spiky?

The double flower form has narrow, tapering petals rather than the broad overlapping petals of standard doubles. The result is a star or sea-urchin shape that is unique among daffodils. It is a natural characteristic, not a defect.

Will Rip Van Winkle naturalise?

Freely. It multiplies by offsets and spreads steadily in grass and borders. One of the most reliable dwarf daffodils for naturalising. Leave foliage for six weeks after flowering.

Can I grow Rip Van Winkle in a pot?

Excellent in small containers — at 15cm it stays in proportion with a windowsill pot or a shallow bowl. Plant closely for a dense display. The unusual spiky flowers are a talking point at eye level.