understanding narcissi divisions

Written by:: Sarah Raven
Last updated:: 20th Dec 2020

Below are the 13 different divisions/groups of narcissi, along with a little explanation of how to identify these daffodils and an example of varieties in each division...

Division 1: Trumpet

The cup length on these is as long as or longer than the petals. There is only one bloom per stem.

e.g. Narcissus 'Rijnveld's Early Sensation.

Division 2: Large-Cupped

The cup length on these measures more than one third of, but less than or equal to the length of the petals. One flower per stem.

e.g. Narcissus 'Pink Charm'.

Division 3: Small-Cupped

The cup length on these measures not more than one third of the length of the petals. There is only one flower per stem.

e.g. Narcissus 'Segovia'.

Division 4: Double

These have one or more flowers to a stem, flowers have a clustered cup and petals.

e.g. Narcissus 'Sir Winston Churchill'.

Division 5: Triandrus

These have two or more bell pendant like blooms per stem.

e.g. Narcissus 'Thalia'.

Division 6: Cyclaminaeus

The flower heads on these hang at an acute angle to the stem, with a very short neck.

e.g. Narcissus 'Tête-a-Tête'.

Division 7: Jonquilla / Apodanthus

These daffodils have small very fragrant flowers with flat petals, and narrow and reed like foliage. There are usually one to three blooms on a stem.

e.g. Narcissus 'Sailboat'.

Division 8: Tazetta

These fragrant daffodils have clusters of florets (usually more than three) on a stem and. The foliage and stem are very broad.

e.g. Narcissus 'Avalanche'.

Division 9: Poeticus

These have pure white petals. The cup frequently has a green (or other colour) centre surrounded by yellow with a red rim. The flowers are fragrant, usually one to a stem.

e.g. Narcissus 'Actaea'.