The Cyclamineus Daffodils
Narcissus Cyclamineus ‘Tete a Tete’ (A Cyclamineus Daffodil Hybrid)
Cyclamineus daffodils are a distinctive group of small, early-flowering bulbs, originally developed from Narcissus cyclamineus—a species found growing naturally along streams and riverbanks in parts of France, Spain, and Portugal.
Small in size but full of character, these are among the more unique daffodils you can grow.
Name and History
The name Narcissus comes from Greek mythology, linked to the story of Narcissus, a youth who fell in love with his own reflection. According to the myth, the flower appeared where he died.
The species name cyclamineus refers to its resemblance to Cyclamen, particularly in the way the petals sweep sharply backwards.
In the wild, Narcissus cyclamineus grows in damp areas along streams and in light woodland. It was introduced into cultivation in the 19th century and quickly became an important parent plant for hybridising, thanks to its unusual flower form and early flowering habit.
Flowers and Features of Narcissus cyclamineus
Reaching around 15 cm in height, Narcissus cyclamineus is a compact bulb with a very distinctive look.
Its strongly reflexed petals (perianth) sweep back sharply, giving the flower a windswept appearance. The blooms are usually bright yellow, often slightly nodding on slender stems.
This unique shape is what sets Cyclamineus types apart from other daffodils.
Hybrids and Cultivars
From this single species, a wide range of Cyclamineus hybrids has been developed.
By crossing it with larger daffodil varieties, growers have created intermediate forms—typically 20–25 cm tall—while retaining the characteristic swept-back petals.
Some well-known cultivars include:
- ‘Jetfire’ – bright yellow with a contrasting orange trumpet
- ‘Tête-à-Tête’ – a popular compact variety for mass planting
- ‘Peeping Tom’ – classic yellow tones with strong reflexed petals
- ‘Little Azi’ – a softer white-flowering form
If you’re looking for something a little different for the garden or containers, these are well worth considering.
Growing Conditions and Care
Cyclamineus daffodils are easy to grow and suit a range of garden conditions.
Planting Time
Plant bulbs from late summer through to early winter.
Depth
Plant at around 5–8 cm deep.
Soil
Humus-rich, well-drained soil is ideal.
Light
Full sun to light afternoon shade.
Watering
Water during the growing and flowering period (winter through spring). Once dormant in summer, little watering is needed.
Maintenance
Remove spent flowers, but allow foliage to die back naturally to feed the bulb for the following season.
Growth Habit and Garden Uses
Their compact size makes them especially versatile in the garden.
They work well in:
- Rock gardens
- Edging pathways
- Containers and pots
- Naturalised plantings
They’re particularly effective when planted in groups, where their unusual flower form can really stand out.
Propagation
Over time, bulbs will produce offsets and form small clumps.
- Division – Lift and divide in summer once foliage has died back
- Seed – The species can also be grown from seed, though it takes longer
📌 Quick Reference
- Botanical Name – Narcissus cyclamineus
- Common Name – Cyclamineus Daffodil
- Height – Around 15 cm (hybrids up to 25 cm)
- Position – Full sun to part shade
- Soil – Humus-rich, well-drained
- Frost Tolerant – Yes
- Drought Tolerant – Yes (when dormant)
- Flowering Period – Spring
- Flower Colour – Yellow (with some white hybrids)
- Foliage – Mid to deep green
Where To Buy Cyclamineus Daffodils
2 Jacksons Hill Rd, Menzies Creek VIC 3159
Hundreds of different varieties of daffodils as well as other beautiful spring & autumn flowering bulbs for home gardeners. Free colour catalogues available. Tulips, Daffodils,Alliums, Freesias, Iris and many other bulbs.
www.daffodilbulbs.com.au
'Sylvan Vale' 375 Olinda Creek Rd, Kalorama, VIC.3766
Including a large range of Rare and unusual bulbs, corms and perennials
www.tonkinsbulbs.com.au
357 Monbulk Road SILVAN VIC 3795
Guaranteed "garden worthy" bulbs, plants and perennials. Visit the website to browse our large range of daffodils or request the latest free catalogue.
www.tesselaar.net.au
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