The Monal Daffodil (Narcissus ‘Monal’) is a popular choice for gardeners, known for its striking appearance and straightforward care. This variety offers a reliable display of blooms year after year. Understanding its characteristics and cultivation needs helps ensure a thriving garden presence.
Monal Daffodil Features
The Monal Daffodil features bright golden-yellow petals and a contrasting, deep orange-red cup, creating a vivid display in early spring. The broad petals (perianth segments) frame the prominent, funnel-shaped cup (corona), which is edged with a subtle frill.
Each Monal Daffodil produces a single bloom per stem, measuring 7 to 8.5 centimeters (3 to 3.5 inches) in diameter. The plant grows 40 to 50 centimeters (16 to 20 inches) tall. Monal Daffodils are classified as Division 2, or Large-Cupped Daffodils, meaning their cup length is more than one-third but less than or equal to the length of the petals. They have a fresh, citrus-like fragrance. This variety blooms early in spring, from March through April, often before other daffodil varieties.
Planting and Care Guide
When to Plant
Plant Monal Daffodil bulbs in autumn, ideally during September or October. This timing allows bulbs to establish a robust root system before winter’s colder temperatures. Planting can occur until the ground freezes.
Where to Plant
Monal Daffodils thrive in full sun to partial shade, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal blooming. Position bulbs so flowers face the sun, especially if shaded areas are behind the planting. They perform well in:
Garden beds
Borders
Rockeries
Containers
Soil Requirements
Well-drained soil is essential for Monal Daffodils, as good drainage prevents bulb rot. They prefer organically rich loams but can adapt to average, medium-moisture soils. If your soil has drainage issues, plant bulbs slightly shallower and mound soil over them.
Planting Depth and Spacing
Plant Monal Daffodil bulbs 8 to 15 centimeters (3 to 6 inches) deep, ensuring at least 7.5 centimeters (3 inches) of soil covers the top. For colder northern regions, plant 10 to 15 centimeters (4 to 6 inches) deep for additional winter protection. Space bulbs 10 to 25 centimeters (4 to 10 inches) apart, with larger bulbs requiring more space. Planting multiple bulbs together in groups creates a more natural display.
Watering
During their active growing season, Monal Daffodils require consistently moist soil. Once they enter dormancy, they can tolerate drought conditions. Regular watering is important, but avoid overwatering to maintain healthy bulbs.
Fertilization
Monal Daffodils do not require extensive fertilization. Incorporating compost into the soil during planting provides sufficient nutrients. If a fertilizer is used, apply a bulb-specific formula once a year to support their growth.
Post-Bloom Care
After flowers fade, remove spent flower stems to prevent seed formation, which directs the plant’s energy back into the bulb. Allow foliage to yellow naturally before cutting it back. The leaves continue to photosynthesize, providing essential nourishment for the following year’s blooms.
Winter Care
Monal Daffodils are hardy and tolerate winter conditions across USDA Zones 3 through 8. In colder climates, apply a light layer of mulch (bark, leaves, or straw) for additional bulb protection. Bulbs can remain undisturbed for several years, naturalizing and multiplying over time. If bloom quality declines, divide clumps after foliage dies back.