
Position
- Full sun to light shade; flowering is most prolific in a sunny spot
- Ideal in mixed borders, gravel beds or large containers
- Prefers good air movement to keep foliage dry and healthy
Hardiness
- Withstands winter lows down to around –20 °C (–4 °F)
- A light mulch over the bulb bed in late autumn helps in very exposed sites
Soil
- Thrives in fertile, well-drained soils such as loam or sandy loam
- Benefits from soil improvement at planting with garden compost and a little grit
- Avoids heavy clay or waterlogged ground that can rot the bulbs
- Adaptable to acid, neutral or alkaline soils
- Performs best where organic matter maintains good structure and moisture without waterlogging
- Grab a soil test kit and ensure the perfect conditions for growth
Height
- Reaches about 40 cm (16 in) tall each spring, forming neat clumps that naturalise over time
Seasons of Interest
Additional Notes
- Plant bulbs in autumn, 12 cm deep and 10 cm apart, in groups for best impact
- Leave foliage until fully yellow before cutting back to allow bulbs to replenish
- Divide and replant congested clumps every 3–4 years once leaves have died down
- Dead-head spent blooms to keep the display tidy and direct energy back into the bulb
- Suitable for naturalising under deciduous trees or in lawn areas—lift turf after flowering to avoid damage
- All parts are mildly toxic; handle bulbs with gloves and keep away from pets and children
Narcissus Sweetness - A Fragrant Jonquilla Daffodil for Spring Gardens
If you are looking for a daffodil that combines beauty, fragrance, and reliability, Narcissus Sweetness is the perfect choice. This jonquilla daffodil offers golden-yellow flowers with a delightful sweet scent, making it a highlight of spring gardens. Whether planted in borders, naturalised in grass, or enjoyed as a cut flower indoors, it brings charm and colour every season.
What Makes Narcissus Sweetness Such a Special Daffodil?
Narcissus Sweetness is a jonquilla daffodil that stands out for its golden-yellow flowers and uplifting fragrance. Each stem carries several flowers, giving you more colour and scent per stem compared to standard daffodils. Its slightly pointed petals and strong, sweet aroma make it instantly recognisable.
Unlike some daffodils that only impress with a single bloom, this variety provides multiple flowers per stem, adding greater impact to your garden. As a reliable perennial, it returns every spring with the same cheerful display, rewarding little effort with plenty of golden-yellow beauty.
This narcissus is also easy to grow, adapting to most well-drained soil types. Its fragrance, combined with long-lasting blooms, makes it a favourite choice for both outdoor planting and cut flower arrangements.
How Does a Jonquilla Daffodil Differ From Other Daffodils?
Jonquilla daffodils, like Narcissus Sweetness, are distinct for their slender stems and multiple flowers per stem. Their foliage is narrower than that of other daffodils, almost grass-like, which blends beautifully into a naturalised setting.
These daffodils are especially valued for their fragrance, a feature not as common in other groups. The sweet scent makes them popular not only in gardens but also as cut flowers, where their perfume fills the home.
Another difference is their slightly later bloom compared to some daffodils. They extend the spring season, keeping colour and fragrance alive when earlier varieties begin to fade. This makes jonquilla daffodils an excellent choice for gardeners who want a long display of spring flowers.
When Is the Best Time to Plant Narcissus Bulbs?
The best time to plant narcissus bulbs is in autumn. This gives them enough time to establish strong roots before winter sets in. By spring, they are ready to burst into bloom, filling your garden with golden colour.
Always plant narcissus bulbs at the correct depth. A good rule of thumb is to place the bulb two to three times the bulb’s height deep into the soil. For example, a 10cm bulb should be planted around 20–30cm deep.
Spacing also matters. Allow room for growth by planting bulbs about 10cm apart. This encourages healthy development and ensures a fuller display when they bloom. Planting in groups of odd numbers helps create a natural, flowing look.

Where Should You Plant Narcissus Sweetness in the Garden?
Narcissus Sweetness thrives in full sun but can also tolerate light shade. It looks stunning in a border, where its golden-yellow flowers brighten up spring beds.
This daffodil is also perfect for naturalising in grass. Its grass-like foliage blends easily, creating a meadow-style effect. Over time, it spreads and creates a cheerful carpet of yellow in early spring.
If you prefer growing in containers, a pot filled with narcissus bulbs will deliver a concentrated burst of colour. Place them near doorways or patios where you can enjoy their fragrance every time you pass by.
How Should the Soil Be Prepared for Planting?
Soil preparation is key for successful daffodil growth. Narcissus Sweetness prefers well-drained soil, as bulbs sitting in overly moist conditions may rot. If your soil is heavy clay, improve drainage by mixing in grit or compost.
Before planting, loosen the soil and remove weeds or stones. A balanced fertiliser can be added at this point to encourage vigorous growth. This ensures your bulbs have all the nutrients they need to produce healthy foliage and flowers.
Well-prepared soil not only supports the first season’s growth but also helps the bulbs return stronger the following year. With the right conditions, your narcissus will naturalise and provide reliable blooms for years to come.
How Tall Does Narcissus Sweetness Grow?
The height of Narcissus Sweetness usually reaches around 30–40cm, making it a medium-height daffodil suitable for many garden settings. Its stems are strong enough to hold multiple flowers without flopping, even in breezy conditions.
Gardeners often use the rule of planting bulbs two to three times the height of the bulb to determine depth. This ensures stability and supports healthy growth. With a height that balances impact and versatility, Narcissus Sweetness is easy to place in mixed borders, pots, or grassy areas.
Its compact yet striking growth habit also makes it ideal for grouping in clusters. When planted together, they create an impressive drift of golden-yellow flowers that stand out beautifully against green spring foliage.
How Do You Care for Narcissus After Flowering?
Caring for narcissus after flowering ensures a strong display of the following year’s flowers. Deadhead the flowers once they fade, removing the spent blooms but leaving the foliage intact.
The green leaves are essential, as they continue to photosynthesise and send energy back into the bulb. Allow the foliage to die back naturally before removing it. This helps the plant build reserves for next spring.
If growing in pots, keep the soil moist until the foliage fades. Adding a balanced fertiliser after flowering can also help strengthen bulbs. With this simple care routine, your narcissus Sweetness will remain reliable for years to come.
Can Narcissus Sweetness Be Used as a Cut Flower?
Yes, Narcissus Sweetness makes an excellent cut flower. Its strongly scented flowers and multiple blooms per stem add beauty and fragrance indoors.
To enjoy them indoors, cut stems early in the morning when they are freshly hydrated. Place them in clean water straight away. Their golden yellow flowers brighten arrangements and pair well with other spring blooms.
For the longest life, keep cut narcissus in a cool place away from direct heat or strong sunlight. With the proper care, they can last for several days, spreading their fragrance and colour inside your home.
Why Is Narcissus Sweetness Perfect for Naturalising?
One of the greatest strengths of Narcissus Sweetness is its ability to naturalise. Once planted, it comes back year after year, often spreading and creating larger clumps.
In grass, it blends easily with its fine foliage, looking natural rather than forced. Over time, you will notice bigger drifts forming, adding more springtime colour to your garden.
Because it is a reliable perennial, it thrives with minimal care once established. Simply plant narcissus bulbs in autumn, and let nature take its course. It’s a low-maintenance way to create a garden filled with spring energy.
Where Can You Buy Narcissus for Your Garden?
If you want to buy narcissus for your garden, autumn is the best time to shop. Bulbs are widely available from garden centres and online suppliers. Look for healthy bulbs that feel firm to the touch and are free from damage.
Choosing high-quality bulbs is essential, as they determine the strength and health of your future plants. Large bulbs usually produce stronger stems and more flowers per stem.
Ordering in advance ensures you get the best selection, especially of popular varieties like narcissus Sweetness. With the right bulbs, you can enjoy reliable and colourful displays every spring.
From Darren’s Patch
Narcissus Sweetness has earned a permanent place in my spring planting plans. I plant clumps in borders and pots, and also naturalise bulbs in a sunny patch of lawn. Their sweet scent lifts the garden on cool mornings, and multiple blooms per stem give great value for space. I deadhead promptly but always let the foliage die back naturally, then feed lightly in spring to help bulbs build reserves. For indoor colour, a few stems in a small vase fill a room with perfume. For gardeners seeking reliable charm with minimal fuss, this jonquilla daffodil consistently delivers bold colour, lovely scent, and years of dependable performance.
Key Points to Remember
- Plant narcissus bulbs in autumn for best results
- Place bulbs two to three times the height of the bulb deep in well-drained soil
- Choose full sun or light shade for the strongest blooms
- Expect multiple golden-yellow flowers per stem with a sweet scent
- Deadhead the flowers, but leave foliage until it dies back naturally
- Use as a cut flower for colour and fragrance indoors
- Naturalises well in borders, grass, and pots for long-term beauty
- Feed with a balanced fertiliser after flowering for stronger bulbs
- Buy narcissus early in autumn to secure the best quality bulbs
- Narcissus Sweetness is a reliable, easy-to-grow jonquilla daffodil
With its golden yellow blooms and sweet fragrance, Narcissus Sweetness is a reliable, easy-to-grow spring favourite that brings lasting charm and brightness to any UK garden year after year.
Want to learn about other bulb varieties? Read about Narcissus Rip van Winkle here.
For more information on Spring Flowering Bulbs for your garden, please click here.

Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Narcissus Sweetness, and why is it special?
A: Narcissus Sweetness is a jonquilla daffodil prized for its golden yellow flower and delightful fragrance. Each stem often produces multiple blooms, filling the garden with a sweet scent in early spring. The slightly pointed petals give it a distinctive appearance, while its compact height of around 30–40cm makes it perfect for borders, pots, and naturalising in grass. Gardeners in the UK value Narcissus Sweetness as an easy-to-grow, reliable perennial that provides years of cheerful, strongly scented flowers.
Q: When and how should I plant Narcissus Sweetness bulbs?
A: The best time to plant Narcissus Sweetness bulbs is in autumn, before the first frost. Plant the bulbs around 10cm deep, at a spacing of roughly two to three times the height of the bulb. Place the pointed end upwards in well-drained soil, ensuring the ground remains moist but not waterlogged. They thrive in full sun but will also tolerate light shade. To encourage natural growth and ensure strong blooms for the following year’s flowers, allow the foliage to die back naturally before cutting.
Q: What growing conditions suit Narcissus Sweetness best?
A: Narcissus Sweetness grows best in well-drained soil that is kept moist in spring. It flourishes in full sun, although it can adapt to light shade in the garden. This jonquilla daffodil is easy to grow, whether in borders, grass, or a decorative pot. With a height of the bulb resulting in plants reaching around 30cm tall, it creates a striking display of golden-yellow blooms. Its reliable nature, combined with its fragrant, strongly scented flowers, makes it a favourite among gardeners.
Q: How do I care for Narcissus Sweetness after flowering?
A: Once the golden-yellow flowers fade, it is important to deadhead the flowers by removing the spent blooms. Leave the foliage to die back naturally, as this allows the plant to store energy for the following year’s flowers. During this time, you can lightly feed with a balanced fertiliser to strengthen the bulbs. Avoid tying or cutting the foliage too soon. By giving the bulbs time to replenish, you will ensure a reliable display of golden yellow flowers for years to come.
Q: Can Narcissus Sweetness be grown in pots or containers?
A: Yes, Narcissus Sweetness performs beautifully in pots and containers, making it perfect for patios and small spaces. Use a free-draining compost and plant narcissus bulbs at a depth of about 10cm, spacing them twice their width apart. Keep the compost moist but not waterlogged, and place the container in a sunny or lightly shaded spot. The tall jonquilla daffodil stems carry multiple fragrant flowers per stem, creating a vibrant, golden-yellow flower display that works well for both seasonal decoration and as a cut flower indoors.
Q: Where can I buy Narcissus Sweetness bulbs?
A: Narcissus Sweetness bulbs are widely available in the UK from both local garden centres and trusted online retailers. When buying, look for high-quality bulbs that feel firm to the touch, avoiding any that show signs of mould or softness. Many suppliers offer daffodil bulbs as part of mixed collections, but Narcissus Sweetness is also sold individually. To ensure the best results, buy narcissus bulbs early in the season, while stocks are fresh and ready for planting.