Daffodils – growing for gold

Discover a world of daffodils; from their amazing cultivars, the forgotten story of a man who saved them from a dreaded pest to their modern uses in treating Alzheimer’s disease. Plus, do you know the difference between a bulb, corm and a tuber? An RHS gardening advisor busts more botanical jargon.

Daffodils – also known by their Latin name Narcissus – are true harbingers of spring, making a welcome appearance as the days lengthen. There are many thousands of varieties from tiny alpines to big and blowsy trumpets, as expert grower Ron Scamp explains, sharing his favourites along the way.

What's the difference between a bulb, corm and a tuber? RHS Gardening Advisor Charlotte Sweeney explains. In the latest part of our 'Hidden Horticulturists' series we uncover the story of 1913 Wisley graduate James Kirkham Ramsbottom who worked out a clever way to defeat a pest that was set to wipe out daffodils.

And finally, we meet a man growing daffodils high up in the Welsh mountains for an unusual reason: to make drugs for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.

Plants mentioned in this episode:

Narcissus obvallaris - Tenby daffodil (wild species)

Narcissus pseudonarcissus – Lent lily (wild species)

Ron Scamp's recommended cultivars

'Rijnveld's Early Sensation', 'Cornish King', 'Jetfire', 'February Gold', 'Rapture', 'Rosemoor Gold', 'Pipit'

Miniatures: 'Baby Moon', Narcissus minor

Useful links

RHS website: daffodils
Find daffodil suppliers
Growing daffodils for medicinal use: Agroceutical
Ron Scamp - Quality Daffodils