The Falconet Daffodil, a Narcissus tazetta cultivar, offers a compelling display of beauty and fragrance, making it a favored selection for garden enthusiasts. This daffodil produces multiple blooms per stem, creating a lush and impactful visual in spring landscapes. Its vibrant appearance and delightful scent contribute to its appeal, earning it recognition within the horticultural community.
Distinctive Features
The Falconet Daffodil is distinguished by its clusters of three to eight flowers per sturdy stem, contributing to a full and abundant look. Each bloom features deep yellow, overlapping petals, complemented by bright orange-red cups, creating a striking color combination. It is also noted for its strong, sweet fragrance, which can be appreciated when planted near pathways or in containers. Falconet Daffodils bloom in mid to late spring, reaching a mature height of approximately 12 to 16 inches (30 to 41 cm) with a spread of about 2 to 3 inches (5 to 8 cm).
Planting Essentials
Plant Falconet Daffodils in the fall, allowing bulbs to establish roots before winter. These daffodils thrive in locations that receive full sun to partial shade, ideally with at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Well-draining soil is crucial, as bulbs are susceptible to rot in overly wet conditions; they can tolerate a range of soil types including chalk, clay, loam, and sand, with a pH that is acidic to neutral. Plant bulbs approximately 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) deep, which is two to three times the bulb’s height, and space them 3 to 6 inches (8 to 15 cm) apart. Incorporating organic matter into the soil before planting can enhance drainage and provide beneficial nutrients.
Ongoing Care
After planting, consistent moisture is important for Falconet Daffodils, especially during their active growth period in spring. While they have average water needs, it is important to avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot. Fertilization can support vigorous growth; a general-purpose fertilizer can be applied when shoots emerge in early spring, or a low-nitrogen, high-potassium fertilizer after flowering if performance is lacking. Falconet Daffodils are resistant to common garden pests like deer and rabbits. However, they can be susceptible to issues such as slugs or narcissus basal rot, which can be managed through good drainage and appropriate cultural practices.
Post-Bloom and Longevity
After the blooms of Falconet Daffodils fade, allowing the foliage to die back naturally is important for the bulb’s health. The leaves continue to photosynthesize, storing energy in the bulb for the following year’s bloom, so they should not be cut back until they have yellowed and withered, typically 8 weeks after flowering. Deadheading spent flowers prevents the plant from expending energy on seed production, redirecting it back to the bulb for stronger future blooms. Over time, Falconet Daffodil clumps may become overcrowded, leading to reduced flowering. Dividing these clumps every three to five years in late spring or early summer, once the foliage has mostly died back, helps rejuvenate the plants and encourages continued vigor.