Frilly Daffodils And Double Bloom Narcissus Varieties

In many gardens, daffodils serve as an unofficial harbinger of spring. As their tough green leaves begin to push through the soil in late winter, growers delight in knowing that it is only a matter of time before warmer weather is on the way.

Traditionally, these bright yellow blooms can be spotted growing along roadways and near old or abandoned farmsteads. Daffodil bulbs are equally at home in modern landscapes. In recent years, newer hybrids have spawned renewed interest in the plant. Fortunately for those hoping to plant these delightful flower bulbs in their own yards, there are now more options than ever before. Many newer cultivars offer especially charming colors and exciting flower forms.

Different Types of Daffodils

Trumpet daffodils are among the most common types of narcissus. As one could imply, their namesake refers to the large center cup of the flower. Trumpet daffodils can vary in size, and are generally available in shades of white, yellow, and orange. Though these more traditional cultivars are sure to add substantial beauty to lawns and flower borders, avid growers may find themselves in search of other alternatives.

Plant breeders have taken great interest in the production of flowers that exhibit both desirable form and colors which have never been seen before. This, in addition to their exceptional vase life, has made these varieties ideal candidates for use in cut flower gardens. Split corona and double daffodils, specifically, continue to gain popularity for this very reason.

Unusual Varieties of Daffodil

Double bloom daffodils are those which open to display full flower heads. Rather than sporting a more conventional row of single petals, double narcissus produce masses of petals arranged tightly around the bloom’s cup and/or its outer petals. These large clusters of petals allow for each flower to assist in the creation of a showstopping spring garden. Colors of these cultivars can also vary, displaying characteristic solid tones or bi-color combinations.

Though many varieties of double daffodil produce larger blooms, some types do produce those which are smaller. Though smaller, it is not uncommon for these narcissus to yield multiple flowers per stem. Among the most prized varieties of double daffodil are ‘Delnashaugh,’ which is known for its delicate peachy pink color, and the pristine white ‘Bridal Crown.’

Split corona, or ruffled daffodils, are yet another type of highly ornamental narcissus. Much like others, split-corona daffodils can be identified by close observation of the flower’s cup shape. Rather than forming a trumpet or heavily petaled double center, these types have a characteristic center portion that appears as if it has been flattened or cut into multiple segments. Depending upon the cultivar, these segments may be somewhat raised or lay completely flat against the bloom’s outer petals.

This special flower form causes many of these varieties to have a very delicate or frilly appearance. Though the ruffled flowers are available in almost all traditional daffodil shades, varieties which display attractive pink and salmon tones are often most celebrated. Some exceptional varieties of ruffled daffodil include ‘Apricot Whirl,’ ‘Drama Queen,’ ‘Mallee,’ and ‘Pink Wonder.’