Narcissus 'Quail' Bulbs
Overview
Narcissus 'Quail' is a charming miniature daffodil that brings delicate beauty to the spring garden. This petite gem belongs to the Cyclamineus group, characterised by its distinctive swept-back petals and gracefully nodding flowers. Perfect for naturalising in grass, rock gardens, or containers, 'Quail' offers a refined elegance that belies its easy-going nature.
Key Features
Standing at just 15-20cm tall, this diminutive daffodil produces exquisite blooms in cheerful shades of yellow. The petals reflex backwards, creating a distinctive windswept appearance, whilst the slender trumpet adds depth to the golden display. Each bulb typically produces 2-3 stems, providing a generous display despite its small stature.
Flowering Period
'Quail' flowers in early to mid-spring, typically from March to April. As an early bloomer, it's one of the first daffodils to herald the arrival of warmer weather, often appearing when late winter frosts still linger. The flowers last well, providing several weeks of colour in the garden.
Planting Guidelines
Plant bulbs in autumn, ideally between September and November, whilst the soil is still warm. Position bulbs 10-15cm deep and 7-10cm apart, with the pointed end facing upwards. 'Quail' thrives in well-drained soil and prefers a sunny or partially shaded location. The bulbs are remarkably tolerant of different soil types, though they perform best in moderately fertile, moisture-retentive ground that doesn't become waterlogged.
Ideal Growing Conditions
This versatile narcissus adapts well to various garden situations. It's particularly effective planted in drifts at the front of borders, where its diminutive size won't be overshadowed by larger plants. The naturalising quality makes it perfect for informal areas, woodland edges, or scattered through lawn areas. In containers, combine several bulbs for impact, using well-drained compost.
Care and Maintenance
'Quail' is wonderfully low-maintenance, requiring minimal attention once established. After flowering, allow the foliage to die back naturally for at least six weeks – this enables the bulb to store energy for next year's display. Deadhead spent flowers to prevent seed formation, but leave the stems and leaves intact. A light feed with a balanced fertiliser after flowering helps maintain bulb vigour. The bulbs will naturalise readily, forming larger clumps over time without intervention.
Garden Design Ideas
Use 'Quail' to create a tapestry effect when planted with other early spring bulbs such as crocuses, scillas, or chionodoxas. Its modest height makes it ideal for underplanting beneath deciduous shrubs or at the base of climbing roses. In rockeries, tuck bulbs into crevices for a naturalised appearance. For containers, combine with violas or primroses for a classic spring display.
Wildlife Benefits
These early-flowering daffodils provide valuable nectar for emerging pollinators, including bees and hoverflies, when food sources are scarce. The flowers are deer and rabbit resistant, making them an excellent choice for rural gardens where these visitors might otherwise cause problems.
Hardiness
Fully hardy to -15°C, Narcissus 'Quail' tolerates typical British winters without protection. The bulbs are robust and long-lived, returning year after year with increasing vigour when planted in suitable conditions.
What You Receive
Quality-graded bulbs, size 12/14cm circumference or larger, supplied ready for autumn planting. Each bulb is individually selected to ensure healthy growth and abundant flowering in the first season.
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.