Narcissus 'Filly' is a charming miniature daffodil that brings delicate beauty to your spring garden. This petite bulbous perennial produces clusters of small, bright yellow flowers that are perfect for naturalising in grass, rockeries, or container displays. Despite its diminutive size, 'Filly' delivers maximum impact with its cheerful blooms and reliable flowering habit.
Flower Colour: Bright golden yellow
Flower Size: Small, approximately 2-3cm across
Height: 10-15cm (4-6 inches)
Spread: 5-8cm (2-3 inches)
Flowering Period: Early to mid-spring (February-April)
Hardiness: Fully hardy (RHS H7)
Fragrance: Lightly scented
'Filly' thrives in well-draining soil and is quite adaptable to different soil types. It performs best in:
Neutral to slightly alkaline soil (pH 6.0-7.5)
Good drainage is essential to prevent bulb rot
Tolerates both clay and sandy soils when well-draining
Benefits from organic matter incorporated before planting
Full sun to partial shade
Requires at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily
Morning sun is particularly important for healthy growth
Can tolerate dappled shade under deciduous trees
Watering Needs
Moderate watering during growing season (autumn to late spring)
Allow soil to dry out during summer dormancy
Avoid waterlogged conditions at all times
Natural rainfall is usually sufficient in most UK climates
When to Plant
Plant bulbs in autumn (September-November) for spring flowering. Earlier planting allows better root development before winter.
Planting Depth and Spacing
Depth: 8-10cm (3-4 inches) deep
Spacing: 5-8cm (2-3 inches) apart
Plant pointed end upwards
In containers, bulbs can be planted closer together for fuller display
Choose a location with good air circulation
Avoid areas prone to waterlogging
Consider companion planting with other spring bulbs for extended colour
Feeding
Apply balanced fertiliser in early spring as shoots emerge
Bone meal worked into soil at planting provides slow-release nutrients
Avoid high-nitrogen fertilisers which promote leaf growth at expense of flowers
After Flowering Care
Deadhead spent flowers to prevent seed formation
Leave foliage intact for 6-8 weeks after flowering to allow bulbs to store energy
Only remove leaves once they have yellowed naturally
Mark location if growing in grass to avoid accidental mowing
Division
Bulbs multiply naturally and rarely need dividing
If clumps become overcrowded (every 4-5 years), lift and divide in summer dormancy
Replant immediately or store in cool, dry conditions
Garden Applications
Rock gardens: Perfect scale for alpine and rock garden settings
Naturalising: Excellent for creating drifts in grass or woodland edges
Border edging: Creates neat, low-growing spring borders
Under trees: Ideal for brightening areas beneath deciduous trees
Container Growing
Superb for pots, window boxes, and small containers
Combine with other miniature bulbs for succession of colour
Ensure containers have adequate drainage holes
Protect from extreme cold in exposed positions
'Filly' pairs beautifully with:
Other miniature narcissi varieties
Crocus species
Scilla and chionodoxa
Small tulip varieties
Primroses and polyanthus
Ornamental grasses for textural contrast
Late winter/early spring: Fresh green shoots emerge
Early-mid spring: Bright yellow flowers provide cheerful colour
Late spring: Attractive foliage continues photosynthesis
Summer: Dormant period, space available for summer plantings
Early nectar source for bees and other pollinators
Flowers attract beneficial insects to the garden
Bulbs are naturally deer and rodent resistant
Supports early-season biodiversity
Common Issues
Poor flowering: Usually caused by insufficient sunlight or premature foliage removal
Bulb rot: Typically due to waterlogged conditions or poor drainage
Blind growth: Leaves without flowers often indicate overcrowding or nutrient deficiency
Pest and Disease Resistance
'Filly' is generally trouble-free but may occasionally experience:
Narcissus bulb fly (rare in garden situations)
Slugs may damage emerging shoots
Generally resistant to most common garden pests and diseases
Narcissus 'Filly' is an outstanding choice for gardeners seeking reliable, low-maintenance spring colour in a compact package. Its diminutive stature makes it perfect for smaller gardens, containers, and detailed plantings where larger daffodils might overwhelm. With minimal care requirements and excellent naturalising ability, 'Filly' will provide years of delightful spring displays, multiplying gradually to create ever more impressive shows of golden yellow blooms.
Buying Bulbs from Jacksons Nurseries
Bulbs are supplied either in pre-packaged retail packs or in some cases they are loosly picked and sent bagged.
No posts found