Narcissus x jonquilla Martinette

Narcissus jonquilla  'Martinette' is one of the most strongly scented varieties of jonquil daffodils. Similar to the true jonquil from Southern Europe, it produces several highly fragrant flowers on each stem from March to April. Their bright yellow corolla surrounds a charming little orange corona with undulated edges. Unlike many varieties, this one thrives in hot and dry climates during summer, where it easily naturalises in sunny or wooded areas, in borders and rock gardens. Consider planting some in pots to fully enjoy its fragrance.

Narcissus 'Martinette' was introduced in 1985 in the United States. It belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family. Specifically, it belongs to division 8 of daffodils. The Narcissus genus includes around 50 species found primarily in Western Mediterranean, but also in Africa and Asia. The 'Martinette' daffodil is a variety derived from N. jonquilla, a botanical species with narrow, rush-like foliage, native to southwestern Europe (Spain, Portugal) and North Africa. 'Martinette' distinguishes itself with its bicoloured yellow and orange flowers. The plant produces a sturdy stem, 40 to 45cm (16 to 18in) tall when in bloom. It flowers early, usually in March, with each stem bearing 4 to 5 pendulous flowers grouped in an umbel. The linear foliage is deciduous, disappearing in summer to reappear at the end of winter.

There are so many daffodil cultivars that one can enjoy them for three months in spring without ever getting tired. They all have in common the ability to naturalise easily, to offer an infinite range of yellow and white shades, and to often emit sweet fragrances. Grow them in large clumps in lawns or at the edge of flower beds (at least 20 bulbs) for an enhanced effect. Pair ‘Martinette’ with squills, Anemone blanda, botanical tulips, forget-me-nots, and small grasses like stipa. A group of ‘Martinette’ daffodils in a vase creates a sensational effect. This daffodil is also perfect in pots.

Jonquil or daffodil? Botanically speaking, jonquils are a type of daffodil. They bear flowers grouped in pairs or more, and their corona forms a campanulate trumpet that is longer than the corolla is wide. Botanical species have the charm of wild plants and thrive in rock gardens: N. bulbocodium, N. canaliculatus, N. juncifolius, N. pseudonarcissus, the simple wood jonquil. are among the most beautiful.

For bouquets, we advise against mixing daffodils with other flowers such as tulips, as the stems of daffodils contain a substance that causes other flowers to wilt quickly. This detrimental effect on other flower types can be mitigated by dipping the ends of daffodil stems in warm water for 1 to 2 minutes.