Narcissus Sailboat

Narcissus 'Sailboat' is a small variety of daffodil that produces 2 to 3 fragrant white flowers with a sulphur yellow centre, gradually turning to creamy white. Standing at just 25cm (10in) tall, it is ideal in a lawn or at the edge of a sunny flower bed, where it will multiply to form colourful patches that faithfully return every year. 

Narcissus 'Sailboat' belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family, just like ornamental garlic or snowdrops. Horticultural hybrid narcissus are divided into divisions based on the botanical species they originate from. There are 13 divisions. 'Sailboat' belongs to division 7, which is associated with N. jonquilla, a small Iberian species adapted to rather warm climates. All related varieties are characterised by narrow and almost cylindrical leaves, and an umbel of 2 to 5 flowers per stem. Each flower is also equipped with a small shallow cup-shaped crown and emits a pleasant lemon scent. The perianth (composed of identical petals and sepals) is spread out.

Narcissus 'Sailboat' flowers are usually grouped in threes. They bloom in April and early May. Their perianth is ivory white, and the crown is sulphur yellow. Over time, the whole gradually turns to creamy-white.

Given the influence of Narcissus jonquilla in its genes, 'Sailboat' prefers fairly warm soils. It will not thrive well in very cold regions, especially if planted in the shade. Choose a sunny location that warms up quickly, and avoid heavy, moist soils. Once the appropriate location is found, it is a vigorous and trouble-free plant that will multiply abundantly over the years. You will eventually obtain beautiful, highly flowered clumps that will perfume your flower beds. It is also a very good plant for naturalising in a lawn.

Please note that the sap is irritating and toxic, as with all narcissus plants.

Pair 'Sailboat' with other similar narcissus varieties, such as 'Pipit', which is slightly taller. It will also work wonders alongside Geranium 'Cluden Sapphire', as it accompanies the start of its flowering, or in a rockery with Alyssum 'Goldkugel' and Iris 'Making Eyes'.