Narcissus jonquilla Pipit

Narcissus jonquilla 'Pipit' produces lightly scented flowers that are 25 to 30cm (10 to 12in) tall. They have pale-yellow petals adorned with a white crown in the centre.

Native to Western Europe, daffodils belong to the Amaryllidaceae family. The genus Narcissus includes numerous species and varieties, of both botanical origin (like the 'Pipit' variety) and horticultural. Narcissus jonquilla, with yellow flowers and rush-like leaves, is one of the species in the Narcissus genus. In some regions, the yellow daffodil or trumpet daffodil (N. pseudonarcissus) is sometimes called jonquil, hence the frequent confusion between jonquil and daffodil.

The daffodil is a bulbous plant with slightly pointed linear leaves, which are often green with a hint of blue. The hollow stems end in single or double flowers, with 6 white or yellow petals. In the centre is a crown that is usually yellow or orange. The petals of the 'Pipit' variety are pale-yellow with a small white crown in the centre.

Daffodils bloom for about two weeks between February and May, depending on the varieties. 'Pipit' flowers in April. These flowers are perfect for bouquets. However, we advise against mixing narcissus with other flowers, especially tulips, as daffodil stems contain a substance that causes other flowers to wilt quickly. This detrimental effect on other flower species can be attenuated by dipping the ends of narcissus stems in hot water for 1 to 2 minutes.

Easy to cultivate, daffodils can be planted at the front of a shrub bed, along borders, in the middle of a lawn, or in pots. They go well with grape hyacinths, early tulips, and hyacinths, and can easily naturalise. However, the bulb, flower, and leaves are toxic. This deciduous bulbous plant is hardy and perennial, with bulbs that can remain in the ground for several years.