Jonquilla daffodil (Narcissus 'Quail')
Discover Narcissus 'Quail', a fragrant Jonquilla daffodil ideal for early spring color. Low maintenance and deer resistant.
Complete Plant Information
Overview
Narcissus ‘Quail’ is a highly valued variety belonging to the Jonquilla daffodil group, cherished for its abundant, deeply fragrant, golden-yellow blooms appearing reliably in mid-spring. This particular cultivar offers a refined presence in the garden, rising on slender stems that fit beautifully into sweeping drifts or borders. A significant benefit for the home gardener is the exceptionally low maintenance required once established.
As a Division VII Jonquilla narcissus, Narcissus ‘Quail’ produces multiple, smaller flowers per scape, distinguishing it from larger trumpet types. Its compact stature, reaching only 1 to 1.5 feet high, makes it perfect for front-row plantings where its showy flowers can be fully appreciated. Furthermore, its resilience against common garden pests adds to its practical appeal.
The key aesthetic contribution of the Jonquilla daffodil variety like ‘Quail’ is the combination of vivid color and intoxicating scent, signaling the arrival of clearer spring weather. Gardeners select this bulb for its ability to naturalize gracefully, returning year after year with minimal intervention, providing reliable mid-season color.
Fast Facts
- Plant Family: Amaryllidaceae
- Plant Type: Bulb
- Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 4-9
- Size at Maturity:
- Height: 1-1.5 ft
- Spread: 0.5-0.75 ft
- Bloom Time: April
- Bloom Description: Yellow
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
- Water Needs: Medium
- Maintenance Level: Low
How to Grow
Planting Narcissus ‘Quail’ bulbs should occur in the early to mid-fall. Ensure the site offers full sun to light part shade; remember that the flowers naturally face the light source, so locate any shade areas behind the planting area. Soil drainage is paramount; plant these bulbs in average, medium-moisture, well-drained soils, preferably organically rich loams.
For depth, plant each bulb two to three times as deep as the bulb is tall, aiming for at least 3 inches of soil covering the top. Spacing should range between 4 to 10 inches apart depending on the bulb size. Though initial plantings might appear sparse, the clumps will fill in over time and require less frequent division. Keep the soil uniformly moist during the active growing phase in spring.
After the stunning yellow flowers fade in April, resist the urge to cut the foliage. Allow the leaves to naturally yellow and die back completely before trimming, as this process replenishes the bulb reserves for next year’s display. You may clip off the spent flower stem just below the bloom to prevent unwanted seed set. Daffodils, including the Jonquilla daffodil, can generally be left undisturbed for many successful seasons.
Landscape Uses
Daffodils are irreplaceable for adding early, vibrant color compared to later bloomers like tulips. Narcissus ‘Quail’ is ideally suited for mass plantings, where drifts of its deep golden color create the most visual impact among the awakening landscape. Consider planting in large groups of at least six bulbs, or allowing them to naturalize under deciduous trees where they receive full sun before leaf-out.
This specific Jonquilla daffodil thrives in traditional garden beds and defined borders, where its shorter stature won’t obscure later perennials. They also blend seamlessly into wilder garden settings or open woodlands. Mix Narcissus ‘Quail’ generously with other spring ephemerals, such as minor bulbs like snowdrops or grape hyacinths, for layered sequential bloom interest.
Because this variety tolerates drought once dormant, it’s an excellent choice for planting near shrubs or beneath trees where competition for summer moisture might be present. The fragrance of the Jonquilla group is intense, making them perfect additions near pathways or outdoor seating areas for maximum sensory enjoyment.
Standout Features
Flower Qualities
- Showy
- Fragrant
Noteworthy Characteristics
Narcissus is a genus renowned for its dependable spring blooms, featuring striking corona cups surrounded by six perianth segments in a spectrum of colors. ‘Quail’ specifically falls under Jonquilla narcissus (Division VII), rising to about 12-14 inches tall. This variety is distinguished by bearing two to four intensely fragrant, deep golden-yellow flowers per stem, typically blooming mid-season in April.
Tolerances
- Rabbit
- Deer
- Drought
Potential Problems
Daffodils are generally robust, boasting resistance against most serious insect or disease issues, provided they are grown in proper, well-drained soil. The primary cultural issue leading to problems is bulb rot, which occurs when the planting site remains persistently waterlogged. While generally avoided by deer and rabbits, gardeners should remain aware of infrequent pests like the narcissus bulb fly or slugs during early growth stages. If bloom productivity wanes after several years, it typically signals overcrowding; divide the clumps promptly after the foliage yellows to restore vigor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hardiness zones is Jonquilla daffodil suitable for?
Narcissus ‘Quail’ is suitable for gardeners in USDA Zones 4 through 9.
How large does Narcissus ‘Quail’ grow?
This Jonquilla daffodil typically reaches a height between 1 and 1.5 feet, with a spread of 0.5 to 0.75 feet.
When does Jonquilla daffodil bloom?
This variety generally blooms in April, showcasing bright yellow flowers.
What sun exposure does Narcissus ‘Quail’ need?
For optimal flowering, Narcissus ‘Quail’ requires full sun to partial shade conditions during its growth period.
Conclusion
Narcissus ‘Quail’ offers reliable, short, and intensely fragrant yellow flowers, making it a stalwart for any spring garden plan. Its low maintenance requirements and resistance to deer make this specific Jonquilla daffodil exceptionally practical for long-term landscape success. Ensure you plant these bulbs in well-draining soil during the fall to enjoy a beautiful splash of color next April.
Companion Planting
Selecting the right partners enhances the aesthetic and cultural needs of Narcissus ‘Quail’. Since narcissus foliage yellows and dies back relatively early, plant companions that emerge later in the season to fill the gap. Consider planting low-growing Phlox subulata (Creeping Phlox) around the base; the Phlox will cover the dying daffodil leaves, offering continuous ground cover interest. Alternatively, pairing ‘Quail’ with early-blooming Siberian Iris or late-blooming Tulips ensures a seamless transition of color throughout the spring season.
Seasonal Care Calendar
Early spring care focuses strictly on observing the foliage; avoid cutting any leaf material until it has naturally turned yellow, as this is crucial for bulb replenishment. Mid-spring, after the yellow blooms of the Jonquilla daffodil have faded, deadhead the flower scapes gently to direct energy back into the bulb, but leave the rest of the stem intact. During hot, dry summers, watering should cease entirely as the bulb enters dormancy, happily tolerating dry conditions until the next growing season begins.
