Are Jonquils and Daffodils the Same Flower?

Jonquils and daffodils are two types of popular spring-blooming bulbs that are often confused as being the same flower. However, while related, jonquils and daffodils are actually different plants with some distinct characteristics.

The Confusion Between Jonquils and Daffodils

The mistaken belief that jonquils and daffodils are the same flower stems from a few factors:

• They belong to the same genus – All jonquils and daffodils fall under the botanical genus Narcissus.

• Similar appearance – With their yellow trumpet-shaped blooms, jonquils and daffodils look quite similar at first glance.

• Interchangeable names – In some regions, jonquils may be referred to as daffodils, though this is not technically correct

Key Differences Between Jonquils and Daffodils

While they share some similarities, jonquils and daffodils have a number of distinct differences:

• Flowers per stem – Daffodils have just one flower per stem, while jonquils often have clusters of 2-6 flowers per stem.

• Flower shape – Daffodil flowers tend to have larger, wider trumpets. Jonquil flowers have smaller, narrower cups.

• Flower colors – Daffodils come in many colors like white, pink, peach, orange, yellow, and bi-color blooms. Jonquils only bloom in yellow.

• Fragrance – Jonquils are known for their intense, sweet fragrance. Most daffodils have little to no scent.

• Leaf shape – Daffodil leaves are wide, flat and blade-like. Jonquil leaves are dark green, slender, and tube-shaped.

• Hardiness – Daffodils thrive in zones 3-8. Jonquils only grow as perennials in zones 8 and warmer.

Why Proper Identification Matters

Even though jonquils and daffodils may look nearly identical to the untrained eye, being able to properly tell them apart is important for a few reasons:

• You’ll know which types can grow in your specific hardiness zone.

• It allows you to choose the right bulbs for your landscaping needs (e.g. wanting fragrant jonquils).

• You’ll be able to provide the proper care based on each variety’s needs.

• Accurate identification prevents mistakenly planting jonquils in areas too cold for them.

• It helps you avoid confusing listings and descriptions from bulb sellers.

• You’ll be prepared if issues like pests or diseases arise that impact one type more than the other.

Telling Jonquils and Daffodils Apart

Luckily, once you know what to look for, it’s usually easy to tell these two spring flowering bulbs apart. Here are some tips:

• Examine the flowers and leaves closely. Differences in appearance are the easiest way to distinguish them.

• Check for fragrance. If your bulbs are sweetly fragrant, they are likely jonquils.

• Note your USDA planting zone. Jonquils only thrive long-term in zones 8 and warmer.

• Buy bulbs from reputable sellers that accurately label varieties to prevent confusion.

• Look at bloom times. Jonquils typically flower after daffodils.

• Observe the plants over a full season. Growth habits and cycles will vary between the two.

• Research the botanical name. True jonquils are labeled Narcissus jonquilla.

Growing Daffodils and Jonquils

Once you know which bulbs you have, you can provide proper care for healthy growth.

For daffodils:

• Plant bulbs in the fall in zones 3-8.

• Choose a site with well-draining soil and full sun to part shade.

• Set bulbs 4-6 inches deep and 3-5 inches apart.

• Water thoroughly after planting and provide 1 inch of water weekly.

• Remove faded blooms but allow foliage to die back naturally.

• Lift and divide crowded clumps every 2-3 years after flowering.

For jonquils:

• Plant bulbs in the fall in zones 8-10.

• Select a protected, warm spot in full sun to light shade.

• Set bulbs 3-4 inches deep and 2-4 inches apart.

• Keep soil moist but not soggy.

• Cut back spent blooms and let leaves fully yellow before removing.

• Dig up and divide overcrowded jonquils after they bloom every few years.

Common Types of Daffodils and Jonquils

There are many popular cultivated varieties of both daffodils and jonquils. Some examples include:

Daffodils:

• King Alfred – Bright yellow; very hardy

• Ice Follies – White petals, yellow cup

• Tete a Tete – Dwarf; early blooming

• Fortune – Yellow petals, orange cup

• Thalia – White petals, white cup

Jonquils:

• Baby Moon – Pale yellow, very fragrant

• Hillstar – Yellow with white cup rims

• Jenny – Double flowered, highly scented

• Bell Song – Yellow with pinkish cups

• Suzy – Yellow with orange cups

The Bottom Line

While jonquils and daffodils share the same genus and have visual similarities, they are different flowers with distinct characteristics. Being able to properly identify them will allow you to select suitable types for your climate, provide proper care, and achieve the best results in your spring garden displays.