Calling all flower enthusiasts! The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) is inviting everyone to join in a fascinating project to map daffodils across the UK. This initiative, known as the “Daffodil Diaries,” is a celebration of the 100th anniversary of the RHS’s efforts to save the daffodil from extinction. The project is not just about admiring these vibrant spring flowers; it’s also about uncovering rare and potentially lost varieties, such as the elusive pink, white, and “bonfire” yellow daffodils. By participating, flower lovers can contribute to a greater understanding of these beloved blooms and help preserve their diversity for future generations.
The “Daffodil Diaries” project will run from February 12 to March 1, coinciding with Saint David’s Day, when daffodils are traditionally worn to honor the patron saint of Wales. During this period, the RHS is urging businesses, gardeners, and anyone with an interest in flowers to log the locations where daffodils are blooming. Participants are encouraged to note details such as the color, type, and height of the daffodils they encounter. This information will be used by RHS scientists to study the environmental factors influencing the growth and spread of daffodils, as well as to better understand consumer preferences for different varieties.
Among the daffodils being sought are three rare and potentially endangered varieties: the “Mrs. R O Backhouse,” the “Mrs. William Copeland,” and the “Sussex Bonfire.” The “Mrs. R O Backhouse” is one of the first pink daffodils ever cultivated, featuring a striking coral pink trumpet surrounded by ivory petals. Meanwhile, the “Mrs. William Copeland” is a double-flowered white daffodil that has not been commercially available in recent years, making it a highly sought-after find. The “Sussex Bonfire,” a double-flowered yellow and orange variety, is particularly elusive, as its current whereabouts remain unknown. Discovering these rare daffodils could provide valuable insights into the UK’s gardening heritage and help ensure the survival of these unique cultivars.
The RHS believes that mapping daffodils will not only shed light on their distribution and diversity but also aid in their conservation. By identifying where rare varieties are growing, the society hopes to protect these plants from disappearing altogether. This project also hopes to preserve the genetic material of these daffodils, which could play a crucial role in future breeding programs. Dr. Kalman Konyves, an RHS daffodil expert, emphasizes the significance of this initiative: “Daffodils are more than just a symbol of spring; they come in an astonishing 31,000 known varieties, ranging in color from the familiar yellow to lesser-known shades of pink, green, and red. By understanding where these varieties can be found, we can work to preserve this incredible diversity for the future.”
The RHS is collaborating with Plant Heritage, a plant conservation charity, to identify which rare daffodil cultivars to prioritize in the search. Gwen Hines, the charity’s chief executive, highlights the importance of this collaboration: “While daffodils are abundant in spring, many rare varieties are at risk of being lost from our gardens and roadsides. Only six national plant collections currently protect some of these rare daffodils, but many others remain unsafeguarded. That’s why we’re encouraging everyone to join the hunt for these rare blooms this spring.” By participating in the “Daffodil Diaries,” individuals can play a direct role in the conservation of these plants and contribute to a broader understanding of the UK’s horticultural history.
As the “Daffodil Diaries” project gets underway, it’s not just about science; it’s also about fostering a community of flower enthusiasts who share a passion for nature and conservation. By logging daffodil sightings and keeping an eye out for rare varieties, participants can make a meaningful impact on the preservation of these beautiful flowers. With its blend of history, science, and community engagement, the “Daffodil Diaries” is an exciting opportunity for anyone who loves spring flowers to get involved and make a difference. So, grab your binoculars and your smartphone, and join the hunt for the UK’s rarest daffodils—your observations could help ensure that these stunning blooms continue to brighten our landscapes for generations to come.
