Theory according to Dave

These flowers of Nb nivalis are quite the smallest daffodils that we grow. When exhibited in NZ they are down pointed because they are too small compared with a vase of Nb conspicuous.
Now here is the theory according to Dave. I’m sure that the botanists have figured this out before and Harold will give us a fancy name for the habit.
You will notice four flowers in bloom with second and third blooms still in bud to finally total twelve flowers from six bulbs in the pot. I have regularly noticed this phenomena in the cantabricus and romieuxii. I theorise that this is a survival mechanism for the species. If the first flower fails to set seed due, maybe to weather factors, then the second and third flowers may get better conditions and have a chance to set seed ensuring survival of the species.
Dave

Nb nivalis

5 comments for “Theory according to Dave

  1. Dave,

    Flowers that are naturally small should not be down pointed because of their size. Some judges put emphasis on quality and form (as it should be) before size.

    Spud.

  2. I am pleased it has flowered for you Lawrence. Remember the original debate. It is registered as Div 13. Now that you have seen the flower what is your opinion of its correct divisional placement?
    Dave

  3. Hi again Dave

    Thanks also for this: –

    It has taken me years to flower it. I struggle with its pedigree. Is Bantam x assoanus possible? It has very slight pollen fertility with a few large grains sprouting. Putting it on things like Limequilla may be worth a try.

    I have put Ngaire Rogers pollen on an 11a and 11b.

    Also on a 7 petalled nobilis leonensis, which may have the benefit of producing a fertile tetraploid.

    These are the kinds of crosses that I think might make something of the form.

    As regards classification I think my strongest point would be that one flower does not create a classification problem. In the short term, if people are interested, the show schedule should include a spot for them regardless of classification. If a significant number of flowers become commercially available that feature this characteristic we will then be in a better position to consider classification.

  4. Good evening Lawrence,
    I have absolutely no idea of the origin of the cultivar. I have never grown Bantam. This cultivar is definitely 7O-O and often comes with two florets. I assume it is a jonquilla hybrid open pollinated. I guess that I just found it in the paddock.
    Of other interest it appears as though a couple of ‘Ngaire Rogers’ flowers have open pollinated this year. It would be good to get a response from Larry Force as when the original picture of Ngaire Rogers was shown he responded by showing a number of his own creations that showed the same multi petal configuration.

    Dave

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