The Narcissus Family: A Guide to Its Different Types

Understanding Narcissus

Narcissus is a genus of flowering plants that are native to Europe, North Africa, and Asia. They are commonly known as daffodils or jonquils and are popular spring-blooming bulbs that produce beautiful and fragrant flowers. There are over 50 wild species of narcissus, with many more cultivated varieties that come in different shapes, sizes, and colors. In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of the most common types of narcissus.

Trumpet Daffodils

Overview

Trumpet daffodils are one of the most popular and recognizable types of narcissus, known for their large trumpet-shaped cups and long, narrow petals. They usually bloom in mid to late season (around April) and come in a range of colors, including white, yellow, and orange.

Subtypes

There are several subtypes of trumpet daffodils, including:

• King Alfred - a classic yellow trumpet daffodil
• Sir Winston Churchill - a white trumpet daffodil with a yellow center
• Mount Hood - a slightly smaller white trumpet daffodil

Jonquil Daffodils

Overview

Jonquil daffodils are another common type of narcissus that are known for their fragrant flowers and clustered blooms. They usually have multiple small flowers per stem, with petals that curve outward and backward. Jonquil daffodils come in a range of colors, including white, yellow, and orange.

Subtypes

There are several subtypes of jonquil daffodils, including:

• Trevithian - a classic yellow jonquil with multiple blooms per stem
• Early Louisiana - a fragrant yellow jonquil that blooms early in the season
• Beryl - a white jonquil with a yellow-orange center

Cyclamineus Daffodils

Overview

Cyclamineus daffodils are a smaller type of narcissus that are known for their distinctive swept-back petals and narrow cups. They usually bloom in early to mid season (around March) and come in a range of colors, including white, yellow, and pink.

Subtypes

There are several subtypes of cyclamineus daffodils, including:

• Jenny - a popular yellow cyclamineus daffodil with swept-back petals
• Tete-a-Tete - a miniature yellow cyclamineus daffodil that's perfect for pots and borders
• Pink Charm - a rare pink cyclamineus daffodil that has won several awards

Double Daffodils

Overview

Double daffodils are a unique type of narcissus that have multiple layers of petals, giving them a fuller and more luxurious appearance. They usually bloom in mid to late season (around April) and come in a range of colors, including white, yellow, and pink.

Subtypes

There are several subtypes of double daffodils, including:

• Golden Ducat - a classic yellow double daffodil
• Ice King - a white double daffodil with a yellow center
• Pink Pride - a beautiful pink double daffodil that's perfect for cut flowers

Triandrus Daffodils

Overview

Triandrus daffodils are a delicate type of narcissus that have multiple small flowers per stem, with petals that curve outward and downward. They usually bloom in mid to late season (around April) and come in a range of colors, including white, yellow, and pink.

Subtypes

There are several subtypes of triandrus daffodils, including:

• Hawera - a fragrant yellow triandrus daffodil that blooms early in the season
• Lemon Drops - a miniature yellow triandrus daffodil that's great for rock gardens
• Hillstar - a rare pink triandrus daffodil that has won several awards

Tazetta Daffodils

Overview

Tazetta daffodils are a type of narcissus that have multiple small flowers per stem, with petals that curve outward and upward. They usually bloom in mid to late season (around April) and come in a range of colors, including white, yellow, and orange.

Subtypes

There are several subtypes of tazetta daffodils, including:

• Geranium - a fragrant yellow tazetta daffodil with multiple blooms per stem
• Minnie - a miniature white tazetta daffodil that's great for pots and borders
• Golden Bells - a yellow tazetta daffodil with multiple blooms per stem that's perfect for naturalizing

Which Narcissus Is Right for You?

As you can see, there are many different types of narcissus to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics and beauty. Whether you prefer large trumpet-shaped daffodils or delicate triandrus daffodils, there's sure to be a type of narcissus that suits your taste and garden style.

If you're not sure which narcissus to choose, consider what colors and shapes you prefer, as well as the growing conditions in your garden. Some narcissus varieties prefer full sun, while others do better in partial shade. By doing a little research and experimenting with different types of narcissus, you'll soon discover the joy of these beautiful spring-blooming bulbs.

FAQs: Answers to Your Questions About Narcissus

1. When should I plant narcissus bulbs?

Narcissus bulbs should be planted in the fall, preferably around September or October, before the first frost.

2. How deep should I plant narcissus bulbs?

Narcissus bulbs should be planted about 6 inches deep and spaced about 4 to 6 inches apart.

3. How long do narcissus flowers last?

Narcissus flowers typically last for about 2 to 3 weeks, depending on the weather and growing conditions.

4. Can I plant narcissus bulbs in containers?

Yes, narcissus bulbs can be planted in containers as long as they have good drainage and are kept moist but not waterlogged.

5. Do narcissus bulbs need to be lifted every year?

No, narcissus bulbs do not necessarily need to be lifted every year. However, if you notice a decline in flower production or the bulbs become crowded, it may be time to lift and divide them.