Sweet narcissus (Narcissus odorus)
Care, watering, light and tips for Sweet narcissus on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Amaryllidaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 4 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Sweet narcissus
Narcissus odorus, commonly known as the Sweet-smelling Narcissus, is a delightful perennial bulbous plant, cherished for its intense yellow flowers and intoxicating fragrance. Its elegant, trumpet-shaped blooms, often clustered, are perfect for enhancing garden borders, flower beds, or even creating attractive indoor floral arrangements during spring. Its sweet and pervasive scent makes it an ideal choice for walkways or near windows.
Native range
Western Europe and Northwest Africa
Care tips
Plant the bulbs in autumn in a location with full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil; Narcissus odorus prefers ample light. Water moderately during active growth and flowering, reducing irrigation once the leaves begin to yellow. Use a substrate rich in organic matter and with good drainage to avoid waterlogging, a common mistake that can lead to bulb rot.
How to save a dying Sweet narcissus
- Warning signs
- Soft, yellowing or brown leaves, no flowering, soft or rotten bulbs.
- First aid
- Remove bulb, cut soft/rotten parts, soak in mild fungicide, replant in fresh, well-draining soil.
- What kills it
- Overwatering leading to bulb rot. Also lack of light or poor soil.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if the bulb isn't completely decomposed. Act quickly at first signs.