Fl. 97 mm wide; perianth segments ovate in outline, rounded or somewhat squarish at apex, prominently mucronate, spreading, slightly twisted, overlapping half; the inner segments more or less inflexed; corona cylindrical, pale apricot pink, shading to a deeper tone at rim, with mouth slightly expanded and loosely frilled, rim crenate. Parentage thought to be ‘Lord Kitchener’ and possibly ‘Will Scarlett’.

According to daffodil historian John Hunter, of the National Daffodil Society of New Zealand, a description from a book published in 1962 stated, “Only one reliable pink and white daffodil has yet become low-priced. This is ‘Mrs. R.O. Backhouse’ which has rather poor, thin waved petals and a largish crown quite richly colored a shell pink which is deepest around the brim.”

A description according to Heirloom Daffodil Bulbs: “Known for decades as THE pink daffodil, ‘Mrs. R.O. Backhouse’ is one of the landmark bulbs of the 20th century. She’s more truly ivory and apricot, but so beautiful – a veritable sunrise for those who watch closely – that most modern pinks just can’t compare.”

Named by Robert Backhouse in 1923 in memory of his late wife Sarah Elizabeth, née Dodgson (1857-1921). Sarah was renowned for her daffodil breeding accomplishments. She was particularly known for producing new varieties of red-cupped daffodils.

'Mrs. Backhouse'