Narcissus viridiflorus: complete guide

Overview

Narcissus viridiflorus, known as Green Narcissus or Green Jonquil, is perhaps the most unusual daffodil of all - the only daffodil with green flowers. This remarkable plant grows in the mountains of southern Spain and Morocco, where it blooms in October and November - much later than standard daffodils. It has a fragrant, understated appearance with green petals and a red-brown corona that is truly out of the ordinary.

This is not just a plant, it is a botanical marvel. Gardeners who grow it report passersby stopping stunned by this strange beauty.

Appearance and Bloom

The plant reaches 20-30 centimeters tall - larger than Gaditanus but smaller than standard daffodils. The flowers are the point - green petals range from dull to bright green, while the corona is yellow-green to red-brown. The contrast is hypnotic and totally unlike any other daffodil.

Blooming comes late in the season: October through November in southern climates, or December-January in temperate regions. The flowers are also highly fragrant - a sweet, honey-like scent that intensifies in the evening.

Ideal Location

Set this remarkable daffodil in full sunlight - full sun brings the best color. The plant thrives in partial shade too but blooms may be paler. Rock gardens, stone gardens, and alpine troughs are ideal. It can also be grown in pots in greenhouse glass for better flower production.

Soil

Same as Gaditanus: poor, well-draining, stony. Sandy soil with gravel is ideal. Avoid wet soil.

Watering

Once established, drought-tolerant. Ensure the growing period (September through December) has regularly moist soil, but never waterlogged. In summer, give minimal water.

Pruning and Maintenance

Narcissus viridiflorus requires no pruning. Let foliage gradually die down after flowering - the bulb gathers energy for next season.

Maintenance Calendar

After blooming (January-February): Remove spent flowers, keep green foliage.

Spring-Summer: Bulb builds strength. Let foliage die down. Minimal water.

Summer: Full dormancy. Keep very dry.

September-October: Growth begins again. Add water if soil feels dry.

Winter Hardiness

This daffodil is less hardy than Gaditanus - better suited to -10°C. In cold regions, pot cultivation is recommended so you can protect them.

Companion Plants

Group with other autumn bloomers: Autumn Crocus, Colchicum, Sternbergia. The green flowers beautifully contrast autumn foliage. Perfect container plant in specialized collections.

Closing Thoughts

Narcissus viridiflorus is truly for plant lovers who want something totally different. This is a statement plant. Seek bulbs from specialized bulb suppliers. For more inspiration on special autumn bloomers, check gardenworld.app.

Grow this green-blooming oddity and make sure your neighbors are jealous.