Sea daffodil (Pancratium maritimum)

Product description

The Sea daffodil is a bulbous plant with a large native range. It occurs from the Black Sea to the Canary Islands, where it grows—just as the name suggests—along sandy coastal regions such as dunes and beaches. Within these habitats it plays a role in stabilizing loose sand with its root system, making it an important part of the dune ecosystem.

From early spring onward, strap-like leaves emerge from the bulb. These reach about 40 cm in length and persist until late summer. Around August the leaves die back and the flowers can appear. The flowers grow on leafless scapes, also up to about 40 cm tall. The large white flowers are star-shaped and somewhat resemble the familiar daffodil. At night they become fragrant to attract a specific hawkmoth for pollination. The species is not self-fertile, so at least two plants are needed for seed production. After flowering, black seeds are produced in capsules that open to expose them to wind and sea. Because the seeds can float, they are capable of traveling long distances across coastal waters, explaining the plant's large native range.

In its natural habitat the species endures harsh conditions: sandy coasts offer little protection from wind, salt, and heat. In winter it can tolerate temperatures down to  –10 °C. In temperate regions the bulb can be left outside if protected from severe frost, but it may also be overwintered indoors to ensure survival. Choose a sunny spot with well-drained sandy soil and water sparingly. 

Sowing description: Soak the seeds in lukewarm water for 24 hours prior to sowing. Sow the seeds in sowing mix with some additional sand added and cover with a thin layer of soil or grit. Keep at around 20 °C in a well-lit spot. Ensure the soil remains slightly moist.