This group of large flowering daffodils are defined by a small, button like, trumpet.

Daffodil is the common name given to Narcissi, but we generally use it when talking about the first few groups of narcissi. Known as divisions 1, 2, 3 and 4, anything after these divisions are mostly classified as miniature daffodils.

• Division 1 is a trumpet daffodil, where the trumpet is longer than the petals.
• Division 2 is where the trumpet is just a bit shorter than the petals.
• Division 3 is when the trumpet is noticeably smaller.
• Division 4 is the double daffodil.

All of these groups are grown in the UK in the fields surrounding our warehouse in Lincolnshire. The majority of which are grown for cut flowers in the supermarkets. It is one of the few flowers that are UK grown, along with gladioli, delphiniums and a few others. It is a wonderful sight in early spring to see the endless fields of yellow and white across the flat lands of the fens.

Small cupped narcissi come in a range of colours and offer an interesting alternative to the classic trumpet daffodil. Large petals maintain a bold presence but the small cups make the flowers a little more understated.
The narcissi bulb is a strong and durable bulb that will last for many years. First the bulb will divide into smaller bulbs for the next flowering season. But also, narcissi produce a large seed pod. Over time daffodils will spread and multiply by seed. Although it a can take up to 6 years for a seed to develop into a flowering bulb.

Planting small cupped narcissi

Plant these bulbs in any soil type. Either a sunny position or in dappled light. The canopy of the trees won’t be fully developed by the time these narcissi flower, so amongst deciduous trees is a great place for them to naturalise.

Caring for small cupped narcissi

Just remember not to cut down or tie off the foliage until it has gone completely brown. The photosynthesis from the leaves will give the bulb energy to flower again the following year.