Narcissus ‘British Gamble’ (Trumpet Daffodil)

Daffodil ‘British Gamble’ is a striking and elegant trumpet variety in the daffodil family. It is prized for its large blooms, soft color palette, and stately presence in spring gardens. With its captivating trumpet-shaped flowers and a delightful combination of creamy white and pastel pink hues, it stands out among other daffodils.

Narcissus ‘British Gamble’ – Trumpet Daffodil: An In-depth Look

Daffodil ‘British Gamble’ is an impressive, large-flowered daffodil known for its captivating color transitions and elegant form. When the flower first opens, the petals are soft ivory, and the trumpet is a pale lemon-yellow with a delicate apricot-pink edge. As the bloom matures, the petals gradually become a pure, sparkling white, while the frilled trumpet shifts from its lemon hue to a pale apricot-pink with a slightly darker, ruffled edge. Eventually, the trumpet turns buff-cream, maintaining its soft apricot-pink rim. The flower’s large size and outward-facing form make it a striking presence in the garden, particularly as it stands tall on strong, sturdy stems. This daffodil offers a mesmerizing color-changing display, making it a favorite for gardeners looking to add elegance and charm to their spring landscape.

Native:  Daffodil ‘British Gamble’ 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: The flowers are large and outward-facing, opening with ivory petals and a pale lemon trumpet edged in apricot pink. As they mature, the petals turn pure white, while the trumpet transitions to buff-cream with a soft apricot-pink edge.

Bloom Time: This daffodil blooms in 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 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.