Narcissus ‘Art Design’ (Double Daffodil)

Daffodil ‘Art Design’ is a stunning and elegant double variety in the daffodil family, known for its double blooms and captivating color transitions. It is regarded as one of the most beautiful and unique daffodil varieties, making it a favorite among gardeners and flower enthusiasts.

Narcissus ‘Art Design’ – Double Daffodil: An In-depth Look

Daffodil ‘Art Design’ features large, double flowers with layers of ruffled petals that begin with a vibrant blend of yellow and white. As the blooms mature, the colors gradually shift to creamy peach and butter tones, creating a mesmerizing color transition. The crinkled petals are intricately arranged, filling the center of the flower and giving it a lush, full appearance. The outer petals recurve elegantly, framing the ruffled cup, which adds depth and texture to the bloom. This variety is not only visually stunning but also offers a delicate fragrance reminiscent of spring blossoms and flowering fruit trees.

Native:  Daffodil ‘Art Design’ is a hybrid cultivar derived from the broader Narcissus genus, native to parts of Southern Europe and North Africa. Daffodils belong to the amaryllis family, Amaryllidaceae, which also includes snowdrops and amaryllis.

Plant Type and Habit:  This is a perennial bulb with an upright, sturdy stem that supports its large blooms. As a perennial, it returns year after year, gradually multiplying to form a more substantial display over time.

Size: Typically grows 14-18 inches (35-45 cm) tall and about 3-6 inches (7-15 cm) wide, forming neat clumps that gradually expand as the bulbs naturalize.

Flowers: Each bloom is filled with hundreds of crinkled petals, creating a lush, double-cup appearance. The outer petals start as a blend of yellow and white and gradually transition to creamy peach and buttercream tones as the flower matures. The petals reflex backward, adding depth and elegance to the bloom. The fragrance of the flowers is light and sweet, adding to their appeal for both garden displays and indoor floral arrangements.

Bloom Time: This daffodil blooms in early to mid-spring.

Foliage: The foliage is typical of daffodils, with long, narrow, strap-like leaves that are green and glossy.

Hardiness: This daffodil is a hardy perennial suitable for USDA zones 3-8. It thrives in cooler climates, where it can undergo a period of cold dormancy, which is essential for healthy blooming.

Uses:  It is perfect for borders, edging, and containers, adding height and elegance. Its large, fragrant blooms are ideal for cut flowers, and it naturalizes well, slowly forming larger clumps, enhancing gardens with minimal effort.

Toxicity: Daffodils are toxic to pets (including cats and dogs) and humans if ingested. Handling them may cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals due to calcium oxalate crystals in the plant’s sap.

Deer and Rabbits: Deer, rabbits, and other common garden pests tend to avoid daffodils due to their toxic properties.

Growing and Caring for Daffodil Flowers

Planting: Plant daffodil bulbs in the fall, 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) deep, and space them 3-6 inches (7-15 cm) apart in well-draining soil. Ensure the pointed end faces up and water thoroughly after planting. Learn how to grow daffodils like a pro and enjoy vibrant blooms year after year!

Light: Daffodils thrive in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. At least 6 hours of sunlight daily ensures healthy blooms.

Soil: Plant in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0). Avoid waterlogged areas to prevent bulb rot.

Watering: Water thoroughly after planting and maintain consistent moisture during the growing season. Reduce watering after blooming to allow the bulbs to dry out during dormancy.

Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) when new growth appears in early spring. Avoid heavy feeding as it can lead to weak plants.

Pruning and Maintenance: Remove spent flower heads after blooming to prevent seed production, which diverts energy from the bulbs (unless you want your bulbs to naturalize). Allow the foliage to die back naturally after blooming. Do not cut it too early, as this nourishes the bulbs for the following year.

Propagation:  Propagate by removing offsets as the leaves fade in the summer.

Pests and Diseases: Daffodils are generally pest and disease resistant, but watch out for bulb rot in poorly drained soils.Slugs and snails may feed on shoots and leaves. They may be susceptible to the narcissus bulb fly, which lays its eggs on the bulbs. The larvae eat the inside of the bulbs, weakening or killing the plant.