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Overview
Narcissus cyclamineus are vigorous perennial bulbs that produce thin, grass-like foliage and predominantly yellow flowers in springtime.
Their significant difference to other Narcissus are that the pendant flowers have long and narrow trumpets (corona) with the perianth (petals) curving backwards. It is this feature that earned it the Cyclamineus group name as it somewhat resembles the cyclamen.
These miniature daffodil are known for their dainty, rich golden yellow flowers and make excellent cut flowers.
Keep in a brightly lit position - they can be planted out into beds as well but as they are so delicate and small they are best planted towards the front.
Wild species tend to be small and delicate with their perianth fully reflexed, like a long eared dog in the wind. Cultivars, however, are often a little larger with less backward curve of the perianth.
Soil: Moist, friable and well drained soils with added organic matter.
Maintenance: Keep well watered when leaves appear and especially when coming into flower.
Liquid feed weekly when flowers appear.
Allow foliage to die right back so as not to deprive the bulb of naturally produced nutrients.
Diseases: Slugs, snails, aphids, nematodes, bulb mites and some virus diseases.
Toxicity: All parts of the daffodil contain a toxin, lycorine, with the highest concentration in the bulb.
However, eating any part of the plant can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Though it is so bitter, why would you?
Other Species: Wild species of Narcissus number around 50 but there are 8,000 named hybrids.
Well known members of the Cyclamineus group include 'Tete-a-Tete', 'February Gold', 'Jack Snipe' and 'Rapture'.
Comments: Fresh, open, almost niaeve, vibrant, delicate, coy - a thousand words will never capture the elusive and varied beauty of the Narcissus.
Author: Bob Saunders.