Narcissus Tete a Tete

Narcissus Tete a Tete is an important bulb and has been one of the biggest selling miniature narcissus since the 50s. This variety offers 2-3 flowers per stem of brilliant yellow. The petals are very slightly reflexed and the cup is slightly darker. It grows up to 30cm high and can form clumps if left undisturbed. Flowering in April, it is a good daffodil to pair with mid season tulips.

How to grow

Plant in Autumn any time between September and December. They are a very versatile bulb and will be happy in most environments. Place into pots, beds or boarders in any kind of soil. It wants to be free draining and moist so the bulbs either don’t dry out or become water logged and begin to rot. They will be happy in either full sun or semi shade.

Narcissus Tete a Tete has been a favourite for commercial growers to force or sell in garden centres as potted plants. You can force your own by giving them a cold treatment. Pot them up and position in a dark place for 8-10 weeks at 4°C, then bringing them indoors to a warm well lit position. This should trick them into believing it’s spring.

When this bulb was registered it went in to a process of cultivation which allowed many bulbs to be grown very quickly. By cutting the basal plate into even sections the bulb split into many more bulblets than it naturally would. In a very short time Narcissus Tete a Tete was grown in huge quantities and has continued to be a success owing to its bright yellow colour, perfect miniature daffodil shape and durability.

The name is derived from the French phrase ‘head to head’ but is often written without it’s accents. In the warehouse we tend to refer to them as ‘tate er tate’, but the Lincolnshire accent has never been recognised for it’s poetic qualities. One of the breeders involved in the creation of this variety was Mr Tait and was named for him.

We sell Narcissus Tete a Tete in packs of 15 but we also have bulk quantities available. If you are looking for a bulk or trade order, call us for a quote on 01205 260412.