Hoop Petticoat Daffodil Narcissus bulbocodium subsp. bulbocodium var. citrinus (13)
ABOUT
The plant known commonly as the petticoat daffodil possesses a unique and striking appearance. Its flowers are characterized by an almost lantern-like shape that is highly distinctive compared to typical daffodils. The petals form a flared and ruffled cup, reminiscent of a frilly skirt or petticoat, hence the common name, and they bear a cheerful, soft yellow hue which can sometimes appear almost lemon-like in tone. At the center, the stamens are visible and adhere to the signature palette of the gentle yellow color scheme. The floral display sits atop a slender, upright, leafless stalk which emerges from a base of narrow, arching, green foliage that resembles slender tubes or reeds, providing a delicate backdrop to the bold flowers. These leaves help to accentuate the delicate yet robust blooms that perch on the slim stalks, presenting a delightful contrast in both form and texture. The petticoat daffodil blooms in the spring, bringing a burst of light, pastel tones to gardens and landscapes.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae.
Synonyms
Hoop Petticoat Daffodil, Bulbous Daffodil, Yellow Hoop Petticoat, Golden Thimble.
Common names
Narcissus citrinus, Narcissus bulbocodium var. citrinus.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as Hoop Petticoat is considered toxic to humans when ingested. The primary toxin is lycorine, an alkaloid that is found in all parts of the plant. Symptoms of Hoop Petticoat poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and in severe cases, cardiac arrhythmias or seizures. Consuming large quantities of any part of the plant, especially the bulbs, can lead to these symptoms, and medical attention should be sought if ingestion occurs.
To pets
The Hoop Petticoat plant is toxic to pets. Similar to its effects on humans, the plant contains the alkaloid lycorine, which can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, salivation, weakness, convulsions, and in extreme cases, serious cardiac arrhythmias or central nervous system involvement. All parts of the plant, particularly the bulbs, are poisonous if ingested, and it is important to seek veterinary care if a pet has consumed any part of the Hoop Petticoat.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
6 inches (15 cm)
Spread
3 inches (7.5 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Iberia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Narcissus bulbocodium subsp. bulbocodium var. citrinus, commonly known as Hoop Petticoat daffodil, is valued for its distinctive, trumpet-shaped yellow flowers that enhance the aesthetic appeal of gardens in the spring.
- Ease of Care: This plant is relatively easy to grow and maintain, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, the Hoop Petticoat daffodil is quite drought-tolerant, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers attract bees and other pollinators, which are beneficial for the garden ecosystem and nearby plants.
- Resistant to Pests: The plant is known for being resistant to many common pests, thus reducing the requirement for chemical treatments.
- Naturalizing: The Hoop Petticoat daffodil can naturalize, or spread, over time to create large, eye-catching displays without the need for regular replanting.
- Spring Interest: As one of the early bloomers in spring, it provides a much-needed splash of color after the winter months.
- Companion Planting: It pairs well with other spring bulbs and perennials, helping to create varied and interesting garden compositions.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography and Art: The unique appearance of Hoop Petticoat daffodils offers great aesthetic value, making a popular subject for photography enthusiasts and botanical illustrators.
- Garden Design: Due to its distinctive shape and color, it is often used in rock gardens and as an ornamental feature in suburban yards.
- Companion Planting: Hoop Petticoat daffodils can be planted with other spring bulbs to create a time-staggered blooming period in the garden.
- Wedding Decorations: Its delicate flowers can be used in spring wedding bouquets or as part of table centerpieces for a subtle natural touch.
- Educational Tool: Botany educators can use the plant to teach students about bulbous plant species and their growth habits.
- Cultural Symbol: In some cultures, the Hoop Petticoat daffodil is a symbol of good fortune and used in festivals to celebrate the coming of spring.
- Floral Arrangements: The plant's small flowers are suitable for delicate and detailed floral arrangements where a subtle floral component is needed.
- Nature-Themed Crafts: The dried or pressed flowers of Hoop Petticoat daffodils can be incorporated into craft projects, like handmade cards or bookmarks.
- Wildlife Attraction: These flowers can attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies to the garden, providing necessary food sources for these beneficial insects.
- Color Inspiration: The soft yellow blooms of Hoop Petticoat daffodils can inspire color schemes in interior design or fashion.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Narcissus is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Narcissus is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Self-Love - The plant's common name, "Hoop Petticoat" daffodil, doesn't traditionally carry the same associations as the general name narcissus, which is rooted in the Greek myth of Narcissus, a young man who fell in love with his own reflection. The connection to self-love and narcissism stems from this story.
- Rebirth and Renewal - Daffodils, including the Hoop Petticoat, are one of the first flowers to bloom in spring, symbolizing the end of winter and the arrival of new beginnings and life.
- Respect - In certain cultures, giving someone a daffodil can be a sign of deep respect and high regard.
- Chivalry - The brightness and distinctiveness of the bloom can signify nobility, making daffodils—Hoop Petticoat included—a symbol of chivalry and courtesy.
- Prosperity - Daffodils proliferate during their season and return year after year, often symbolizing wealth, success, and prosperity due to their abundance.
- Hope - Their presence as one of the first flowers of spring brings a message of hope and optimism for the future.
- Uncertainty and Unease - In contrast to their positive meanings, daffodils can also carry a message of uncertainty or unease due to the Greek myth which involved Narcissus leaving behind those who loved him, leading to sorrow.
WaterThe common name for Narcissus bulbocodium subsp. bulbocodium var. citrinus is Hoop Petticoat daffodil. During its growing season, water Hoop Petticoat daffodils thoroughly once a week, making sure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Each plant will typically need about 1-2 gallons of water per week, depending on the size of the bulb and environmental conditions. Ensure to reduce watering once the foliage begins to die back after flowering, and during dormancy in summer, watering should be minimal or none at all unless the environment is very dry.
LightHoop Petticoat daffodil thrives best in full sunlight to partial shade; however, it prefers a sunny spot that receives at least six hours of direct sun daily. When grown indoors, choose a south-facing window where the plant can receive ample light. Too little light can lead to weak growth and fewer blooms, so make sure it gets enough light to promote healthy flowering.
TemperatureHoop Petticoat daffodil prefers moderate temperatures and is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8. It can handle temperature dips down to about 5 degrees Fahrenheit but performs best when spring temperatures are between 50 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit. In extreme heat above 75 degrees Fahrenheit, the plant may become dormant and requires less water.
PruningPruning Hoop Petticoat daffodils is typically not necessary, but spent flowers can be deadheaded to maintain a tidy appearance. After flowering, allow the leaves to remain until they have yellowed and died down naturally, as this period allows the plant to gather energy in the bulbs for the next season. Do not cut back the foliage until it has turned yellow.
CleaningNot needed
SoilThe Hoop Petticoat Daffodil thrives in well-drained soil with added organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure. A soil pH of 6.0-7.0 is ideal for this plant. A soil mix consisting of two parts loam, one part sand, and one part peat or leaf mold will provide the necessary drainage and nutrients.
RepottingHoop Petticoat Daffodils don't need to be repotted often; generally, they can be repotted every 3-5 years or when the bulbs have multiplied and the clumps become overcrowded, usually after the foliage dies back in late spring or early summer.
Humidity & MistingHoop Petticoat Daffodils are tolerant of a wide range of humidity conditions and will do well in typical outdoor environments. They do not require high humidity and can tolerate the humidity levels found in most temperate climates.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light with cool temperatures.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade in fall.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Narcissus bulbocodium subsp. bulbocodium var. citrinus, commonly known as the Hoop Petticoat daffodil, begins its life cycle as a bulb, which represents a period of dormancy typically during the summer months. As temperatures cool and moisture levels increase in autumn, root growth is initiated, anchoring the plant and absorbing nutrients from the soil. Following root development, leaves begin to emerge, often during the late autumn to early winter, utilizing stored energy within the bulb. The flowering stage occurs in early spring, where the distinctive trumpet-shaped, yellow flowers bloom, attracting pollinators for sexual reproduction. After pollination and if fertilization occurs, the plant may produce seeds, which can be dispersed to grow into new bulbs, completing the reproductive cycle. With the arrival of warmer temperatures in late spring or early summer, the above-ground foliage dies back as the plant re-enters a period of dormancy, conserving energy within the bulb for the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
For Narcissus bulbocodium subsp. bulbocodium var. citrinus, commonly known as the petticoat daffodil, the most popular method of propagation is through the division of bulbs. The best time for this process is late summer to early fall, after the foliage has died back. You gently dig up the clumps of bulbs and separate the offsets from the mother bulbs. These offsets are smaller bulbs that have developed at the base of the parent bulb. Once separated, you plant them immediately at a depth of about 6 inches (approximately 15 centimeters) and space them around 3 to 4 inches apart (about 7.5 to 10 centimeters). This method allows the new plants to establish roots before the ground freezes in winter, and they will typically flower in the following spring.
