Jonquil
narcissus jonquilla
Also known as: ["Quail Flower","Common Jonquil"]
Overview
A bulbous perennial with fragrant, yellow or white flowers, native to the Mediterranean region.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus: | Narcissus |
| Botanical Name: | Narcissus jonquilla |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden beds or containers in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent bulb rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; bulb-specific mix recommended.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; once foliage naturally yellows and withers (typically 6–8 weeks post-bloom).
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning (removal of flower stalks); minimal foliage removal to allow bulb replenishment.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) in spring/summer; partial shade during intense summer heat; adjust based on seasonal light intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun to prevent scorching; provide shade during peak midday heat in summer; for indoor placement, use a south-facing window with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate pots weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to diffuse intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in dormant periods
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; avoid waterlogging, especially during dormancy; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; mulch to retain moisture without waterlogging.
Temperature
Ideal range: 60–75°F (15–24°C) during active growth; tolerate cooler temperatures (down to 40°F/4°C) during dormancy.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or heat vents; protect from sudden temperature fluctuations; adjust watering based on temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; avoid over-fertilizing, which can damage bulbs; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Division of bulbs; offsets (small bulbs) can be separated and replanted.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Dig up mature bulbs.
- Separate offsets from the parent bulb.
- Replant offsets at the same depth as the parent.
- Water sparingly until established.
Best Time: Late summer/early autumn after foliage dies back but before new growth begins.
Environment
Cool (50–60°F/10–15°C), dry conditions for storage; plant in well-drained soil with full sun exposure.
Medium
Well-draining bulb mix or sandy loam with added perlite.
Hormone
Not required for bulb division.
Timeline
Offsets take 1–3 years to mature and flower; bulbs planted in autumn will bloom the following spring.
Tools Needed
Garden fork, sharp knife, gloves, bulb trowel.
Quick Tips
Replant offsets immediately to prevent drying; store dormant bulbs in a cool, dry place if not planting right away; ensure offsets have roots before replanting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut flower stalks at the base; allow foliage to die back naturally before trimming.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower stalks to redirect energy to bulb development; trim yellowing foliage after it dies back naturally.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners or scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Remove spent blooms promptly; do not cut foliage until it yellows; clean tools after use to prevent disease.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late summer/early autumn after dormancy ends but before new growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter if repotting in containers.
Method
Gently remove bulbs; trim any dead roots; replant at the same depth in fresh, well-draining soil; space bulbs 3–4 inches apart.
Suggestions
Repot every 3–4 years or when bulbs become crowded; overcrowding reduces flowering.
Checklist
Use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage; plant at correct depth (bulb top just below soil surface); water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; apply until water drains from the bottom of the pot or soil is evenly moist; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the soil surface feels dry to the touch, typically every 7–10 days during active growth (spring/early summer) and reduce frequency to every 3–4 weeks in dormancy (late summer/autumn).
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and aerated.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf burn in excessive heat; slow growth or bud drop in cold stress; wilting or yellowing in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow metabolic processes, causing stunted growth, delayed flowering, or leaf discoloration.
Solution: Move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location; provide frost protection in-ground; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, reduced flowering, and dehydration, especially if combined with inadequate water.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season only; water before fertilizing; monitor for signs of over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10) diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer); cease fertilizing in autumn/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the toxic alkaloids in Narcissus jonquilla. Ingestion can result in severe gastrointestinal, neurological, and cardiac effects, which may be fatal if not treated promptly.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Narcissus jonquilla can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset, neurological signs, and potentially life-threatening cardiac or respiratory issues due to the presence of toxic alkaloids.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicNarcissus jonquilla contains toxic alkaloids, primarily narcissine and lycorine, which can cause gastrointestinal distress, neurological effects, and cardiovascular issues upon ingestion. The bulbs are particularly toxic due to higher concentrations of these compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are jonquils toxic to pets?
A: Yes, jonquils are toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How do I care for jonquils?
A: Plant bulbs in well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade; water moderately and allow foliage to die back naturally after flowering.
Q: Do jonquils attract wildlife?
A: Yes, their fragrant flowers attract bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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