Narcissus Tricollet

Narcissus 'Tricollet' is an unusual variety producing a large solitary flower with a triangular shape. It is formed by three layers of petals arranged in staggered fashion. The centre of the flower is composed of three golden to orange segments, which stand out beautifully against the white petals. The fragrant flowers appear in April. It is a remarkable bouquet flower and an easy plant to grow, full of discreet charm. It is very hardy. The bulbs should be planted in small groups in a prominent spot, where its remarkable blooms can be fully admired.

Narcissus 'Tricollet' belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family. More specifically, it belongs to division 11 of the large narcissus family, which consists of 13 divisions. Division 11 is the split-corona daffodils. The Narcissus genus includes about 50 species mainly found in the Western Mediterranean, but also in Africa and Asia. Narcissus 'Tricollet' stands out with its unique flowering. The foliage reaches about 30cm (12in) in height. When in bloom, 'Tricollet' reaches about 40cm (16in). Its flowers are remarkably architectural, arranged in a flat triangle. It blooms in April, with yellow-green buds that give way to fragrant flowers. Three white petals are arranged in staggered fashion, topped with three yellow to orange segments that catch the eye. The linear foliage is deciduous and disappears in summer. This variety easily multiplies by producing bulbils.

Narcissus 'Tricollet' is undemanding. It grows in any well-drained and loosened soil, but the results are less satisfactory in overly wet or excessively acidic soils. 

There are so many daffodil cultivars that one can enjoy them for three months in spring without ever getting tired. They all have in common the ability to naturalise easily, to offer an infinite range of yellow and white shades, and to often emit sweet fragrances. Grow them in large clumps in lawns or at the edge of flower beds (at least 20 bulbs) for an enhanced effect. Pair 'Tricollet’ with squills, hyacinths, double tulips, forget-me-nots, pansies, or liverworts. A group of 'Tricollet’ daffodils in a vase creates a sensational effect. This daffodil is also perfect in pots.

Daffodils belong to division 7 of the group. Native to southern Europe and North Africa, they have flowers grouped in pairs or more. There is also the botanical species that has retained the charm of wild plants and thrives in rockeries: N. bulbocodium, N. canaliculatus, N. juncifolius, N. pseudonarcissus are among the prettiest.

For bouquets, we advise against mixing narcissus with other flowers, especially tulips, as daffodil stems contain a substance that causes other flowers to wilt quickly. This detrimental effect on other flower species can be attenuated by dipping the ends of narcissus stems in hot water for 1 to 2 minutes.