Narcissus 'Tete-a-Tete'
Common name: Daffodil
Narcissus 'Tete-a-Tete' is one of the most popular dwarf daffodil cultivars. It is tough, reliable, and easy to grow. N. 'Tete-a-Tete' is one of 110 cultivars produced by Alec Gray, a British horticulturalist and daffodil breeder. He originally didn't think much of the cultivar, but later thought better of it and introduced it in 1949.
N. 'Tete-a-Tete' flowers have slightly reflexed, pale yellow petals and bright yellow trumpets. These sit atop sturdy 15 to 20 centimetres (6 to 8 inch) stems.
The cultivar name 'Tete-a-Tete' means 'head to head', describing an intimate conversation between two people. It may refer to this daffodil cultivar often having a pair of flowers per stem.
Narcissus 'Tete-a-Tete' is a cheerful addition to a spring garden. At VanDusen, it can be found in several spots.
Text and photos by Kumi Sutcliffe