Jonquil Narcissus jonquilla (13)
ABOUT
Narcissus jonquilla, widely known as jonquil, is a flowering plant that showcases a cluster of bright, cheery flowers. Each flower possesses a trumpet-like shape at the center which is surrounded by petal-like segments that are often referred to as the perianth; these segments are usually bright yellow, enhancing their striking appearance. The central cup, or corona, is somewhat shorter and may exhibit a slightly different hue from the rest of the flower, sometimes presenting a richer or more orange-toned yellow. The foliage consists of slender, green leaves that are shaped like slender tubes and tend to arise from the base of the plant, providing an elegant backdrop to the vibrant blooms. The jonquil typically flowers in the spring, producing an exquisite and fragrant display often associated with the season's sense of renewal.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae.
Synonyms
Jonquil, Rush Daffodil, Rush-leaf Jonquil.
Common names
Narcissus juncifolius, Jonquilla juncifolia, Jonquilla jonquilla, Narcissus juncifolius var. jonquilla, Narcissus jonquillus, Narcissus angustifolius.
ToxicityTo humans
Jonquil contains a number of toxic compounds, including lycorine and other alkaloids. If ingested, jonquil can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In severe cases, there can be more serious effects, such as irregular heartbeat, low blood pressure, tremors, convulsions, and even, though rarely, death. The bulb is generally the most toxic part of the plant, but all parts contain these harmful substances to some extent. Consumption of any part of the jonquil should be avoided, and medical attention should be sought if ingestion occurs.
To pets
Jonquil is also toxic to pets, with similar toxic compounds affecting them as in humans. If a pet ingests part of a jonquil, especially the bulb, they may exhibit symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and abdominal pain. Significant poisoning can lead to more severe issues such as cardiac arrhythmias, low blood pressure, respiratory depression, seizures, or even death. Immediate veterinary care is recommended if a pet has consumed any part of a jonquil. The entire plant is considered dangerous, with the bulb being the most toxic component.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1 foot 6 inches (45.72 cm)
Spread
6 inches (15.24 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental value: Narcissus jonquilla, also known as Jonquil, is widely appreciated for its attractive, bright yellow flowers that add color and vibrancy to gardens and landscapes.
- Fragrance: Jonquil flowers emit a delightful fragrance, which can enhance the sensory appeal of any space where they are planted.
- Easy to grow: Jonquils are known for being hardy and relatively easy to cultivate, making them suitable for both experienced and novice gardeners.
- Spring blooming: As a spring-blooming plant, Jonquils are one of the first flowers to emerge after winter, signaling the beginning of the growing season.
- Cut flowers: The blooms of Jonquil are popular as cut flowers, often used in bouquets and floral arrangements due to their beauty and scent.
- Drought tolerance: Once established, Jonquils have moderate drought tolerance, which makes them suitable for water-wise gardens and low-water regions.
- Multiplication: Jonquils can naturally multiply over time, spreading to fill garden spaces and creating denser floral displays without the need for frequent replanting.
- Wildlife attraction: The flowers of Jonquils can attract beneficial pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, contributing to the health of the local ecosystem.
- Rodent resistance: Jonquils are often resistant to damage from rodents such as voles and squirrels, which can be beneficial in preserving the integrity of gardens.
- Long blooming period: Jonquils have a relatively long blooming period, which can extend the duration of color in spring gardens.
Medical Properties- No medicinal uses of Narcissus jonquilla are documented or supported by sufficient evidence.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Narcissus jonquilla, commonly known as jonquil, is used in perfumery, contributing a fresh and green fragrance to various scents with its essential oils.
- The blossoms of jonquil are sometimes used in potpourri mixtures for their vibrant color and aroma, helping to freshen and scent drawers or closets.
- In some cultures, jonquil flowers are incorporated into wedding bouquets and arrangements, symbolizing affection and desire.
- The plant is used in landscape design to create visually appealing borders or as an ornamental feature in rock gardens and springtime displays.
- Bulb forcing is a technique where jonquil bulbs are encouraged to bloom early indoors, offering a touch of spring during colder months.
- Jonquils have been employed in artistic depictions, such as paintings and literary works, as motifs representing vanity or self-love, inspired by the Greek myth of Narcissus.
- Dried jonquil flowers are sometimes used in crafting, such as making floral wreaths or decorative arrangements.
- In some regions, the flowers are used as a natural dye, providing a pale yellow color when used to dye fabrics or paper.
- Environmental educators use the presence of jonquil as a teaching tool for pollination and the importance of seasonal blooms in ecosystems.
- Jonquils play a role in celebrations of spring festivals in various cultures, often used in decorations or given as gifts to signify the change of seasons.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiJonquil is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityJonquil is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Rebirth and new beginnings: Jonquil, like many spring flowers, often symbolizes the return of life and vitality after the dormant winter months, representing the idea of starting afresh.
- Self-love: Deriving from the Greek myth of Narcissus, the flower can represent an aspect of self-appreciation and self-care, reminding us to value ourselves.
- Vanity and egotism: Following the same Greek myth, where Narcissus falls in love with his own reflection, the jonquil can also signify excessive self-admiration.
- Wealth and prosperity: The bright yellow color of the jonquil's blossoms is traditionally associated with gold and therefore can symbolize wealth, success, and prosperity.
- Desire: In the language of flowers, jonquils can convey a message of desire or longing for affection from the recipient.
WaterThe most common common name for Narcissus jonquilla is jonquil. When watering jonquils, they should be watered deeply to encourage root growth, typically requiring about 1 inch of water per week, depending on weather conditions. During their growth period in the spring, keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. If natural rainfall is insufficient, supplement with additional watering. Reduce watering after the flowers have faded and the leaves begin to yellow, which indicates they are entering a dormant period. It’s best to water early in the morning to reduce evaporation and prevent fungal diseases.
LightJonquils thrive in locations that offer full sun to partial shade. They perform best when they receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. An ideal spot for jonquils is one where they can bask in the morning sun but are protected from the intense heat of the late afternoon.
TemperatureJonquils prefer moderate temperatures and will start to grow when the soil temperature reaches about 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. They can endure winter cold and can survive minimum temperatures down to around -5 to -10 degrees Fahrenheit. For optimal growth, maintaining temperatures between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal.
PruningPruning jonquils is generally not necessary as they maintain a neat appearance. However, it's beneficial to deadhead the spent flowers to promote better bulb development for the following year. Do not cut back the foliage until it has turned yellow and died down naturally, which is often several weeks after flowering. Pruning is usually done in late spring or early summer.
CleaningNot needed
SoilJonquils thrive in well-draining soil with abundant organic matter; a mix of loam, sand, and compost works well. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral pH, between 6.0 and 7.0.
RepottingJonquils typically do not need frequent repotting and can be left undisturbed for several years unless they become overcrowded.
Humidity & MistingJonquils are not particularly humidity-sensitive, but they do enjoy moderate humidity levels, typical of outdoor conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and keep soil moderately moist.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun or partial shade in well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleNarcissus jonquilla, commonly known as Jonquil, begins its life cycle as a bulb which undergoes a period of dormancy, typically during the summer months when conditions are too dry or hot for active growth. As temperatures cool and moisture increases in the autumn, roots develop from the base of the bulb and the plant begins to grow vegetatively, producing long, strap-like leaves. In late winter to early spring, the jonquil sends up a flower stalk, which bears clusters of fragrant, yellow flowers, each with a tubular corolla. After pollination, usually by insects, the flowers produce capsules containing seeds. Once the seeds mature, they are dispersed and can germinate to form new plants, although jonquils are more commonly propagated through division of the bulbs. After flowering, the leaves continue to photosynthesize to replenish the bulb's energy reserves before it enters dormancy again in preparation for the next growth cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating Jonquil, more commonly known as Narcissus jonquilla, is by dividing the bulbs. This is typically done in the fall, after the foliage has died back and the plant is dormant. Gardeners will carefully dig up the clumps of bulbs and gently separate them by hand, making sure each division has at least one growing point. The bulbs are then immediately replanted at a depth of approximately 6 inches (15 centimeters) to ensure protection from winter frosts and to allow for root development before the ground freezes. By the following spring, these newly planted bulbs will have established themselves enough to produce their own flowers, continuing the lifecycle of the Jonquil.
