Daffodil Narcissus 'Acropolis' (4)
ABOUT
The Narcissus 'Acropolis' is a captivating daffodil variety that boasts a stunning display of flowers. These blossoms have a unique and eye-catching appearance, featuring double layers of petals that give them a full and lush look. The outer petals are typically pure white and radiate around the center, laying a perfect backdrop for the inner segments. These inner petals often exhibit a softer shade of cream or light yellow, adding a charming contrast to the flower. The cup or corona of the 'Acropolis' daffodil is unusually frilly and ruffled, which creates an almost rose-like effect, enhancing its ornamental appeal. This decorative corona usually mirrors the color of the inner petals, completing the flower's elegant bicolor presentation. The plant's foliage is also notable, with long, slender, dark green leaves that emerge from the base, forming a fitting frame for the gorgeous blooms perched atop. The leaves are slightly glossy and can provide a graceful backdrop for other spring flowers in a garden setting. The Narcissus 'Acropolis' daffodil is a popular choice for borders, containers, and cut flower arrangements due to its striking appearance and lovely flowers that herald the arrival of spring.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Daffodil, Jonquil, Narcissus.
Common names
Narcissus 'Acropolis'
ToxicityTo humans
The Narcissus 'Acropolis', commonly known as daffodil, is toxic to humans if ingested. The plant contains alkaloids such as lycorine that can cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Severe cases may lead to dehydration, tremors, convulsions, and even cardiac arrhythmias or significant drops in blood pressure. Handling the bulbs can sometimes cause skin irritation due to the presence of calcium oxalate crystals. It is important to avoid consuming any part of the daffodil plant.
To pets
The Narcissus 'Acropolis', commonly known as daffodil, is also poisonous to pets. Ingestion of any part of the plant, particularly the bulbs, can result in symptoms such as vomiting, drooling, diarrhea, abdominal pain, cardiac arrhythmias, difficulty breathing, and even central nervous system depression. Severe daffodil poisoning may lead to tremors, convulsions, low blood pressure, and can be fatal without prompt veterinary care. Pet owners should prevent their animals from accessing and ingesting daffodils.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1-1.5 feet (30-45 cm)
Spread
0.5-1 feet (15-30 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: The Narcissus 'Acropolis', commonly known as daffodil, has a striking appearance with its white petals and small, frilled coral-pink cup, adding aesthetic value to any garden.
- Spring Bloom: Daffodils are among the earliest blooming flowers in spring, providing vibrant colors after long winter months.
- Low Maintenance: Daffodils require minimal care once planted, making them a great choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.
- Naturalizing: Daffodils have the ability to multiply and spread over time, creating a denser and more impressive display each year.
- Longevity: These hardy plants can live for many years and often outlive the gardener who planted them, becoming a lasting feature in the landscape.
- Resistance to Pests: Daffodils are deer and rodent resistant, as these animals typically avoid eating them due to their toxic properties.
- Attracts Pollinators: While they bloom, daffodils attract bees and other pollinators that are vital for the ecosystem and help in the pollination of other plants.
- Symbolic Meaning: Daffodils symbolize rebirth and new beginnings, often associated with spring, and are perfect for celebratory gardens.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Narcissus 'Acropolis' can be used in perfumery, as flowers may be processed to extract their scent, which is used to create floral fragrances.
- The bulbs can be used as a natural pest repellent in gardens, as they contain compounds that are toxic to many rodents and insects.
- The plant can be a part of a living gift bouquet that has the added symbolism of self-love and self-reliance, making it a unique present.
- They are used in the art of pressing flowers, where their distinctive shapes and colors can be preserved in crafts and décor.
- Narcissus flowers can be used to create natural dyes for fabrics, offering a range of soft yellow hues.
- As a subject in photography, the intricate details of Narcissus 'Acropolis' can serve as a stunning focus for botanical and nature-related artwork.
- In literary symbolism, the flowers can represent themes of vanity or self-admiration when used in storytelling and poetry.
- The striking blooms can be used in ornamental designs on cakes or pastries when crystallized or candied, though care must be taken as they are not edible.
- Narcissus 'Acropolis' can serve as inspiration for fashion designs, with their form and colors influencing textiles and patterns.
- The resilient nature of the Narcissus 'Acropolis' makes it a candidate for planting in memorial gardens where long-lasting blooms are desired.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Daffodil is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Daffodil is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Self-Love: The name "Narcissus" is derived from Greek mythology, where a young man named Narcissus fell in love with his own reflection. Therefore, the flower is often considered a symbol of self-love and narcissism.
- Renewal: Since narcissus flowers (also known as daffodils) are some of the first to bloom in spring, they are frequently associated with rebirth and new beginnings.
- Vanity: In connection with the Greek myth, these flowers may also symbolize vanity and excessive self-interest.
- Prosperity: In some cultures, daffodils represent wealth and good fortune. They are sometimes associated with Chinese New Year celebrations as a marker of prosperity in the coming year.
WaterFor the Daffodil 'Acropolis', watering should be moderate, ensuring the soil is kept moist but not waterlogged. During the active growth period in spring, aim to water the plant with about 1 inch of water per week, either through rainfall or manual watering. Once the flowers have bloomed, and especially during dry spells, you may increase watering slightly. After blooming has finished and the foliage begins to die back, gradually reduce watering. It's important not to overwater as this can lead to bulb rot.
LightDaffodils, including the 'Acropolis', prefer bright and indirect sunlight. The best spot for planting them is where they can receive at least 6 hours of sunlight per day, ideally morning sun with afternoon shade. They can tolerate full sun, but in areas with very hot summers, a location with partial shade will help protect them from intense afternoon heat.
TemperatureThe ideal temperature range for growing Daffodil 'Acropolis' is between 50°F and 70°F. These plants can survive minimum winter temperatures down to about 5°F when dormant. During growth and bloom times, they thrive in the milder range of 50°F to 70°F, so it's important to plant them in an environment that avoids the extremes of cold or heat.
PruningDaffodil 'Acropolis' requires minimal pruning. Remove the spent flower heads after blooming to prevent seed pod formation, which can drain energy from the bulb. Do not cut the foliage until it has yellowed and died back naturally, often six weeks after flowering, as the leaves are needed to gather nutrients for the next blooming cycle. Pruning is generally done for aesthetic reasons and does not need to be frequent.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDaffodils like Narcissus 'Acropolis' thrive in a well-draining soil mix with added compost or well-rotted manure. A slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal for these bulbs.
RepottingDaffodils, such as the Narcissus 'Acropolis', typically don't need to be repotted annually. Repotting every 2 to 4 years, or when bulbs become crowded, is sufficient.
Humidity & MistingNarcissus 'Acropolis', commonly known as Daffodils, prefer average indoor humidity levels between 40-60%.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Daffodils in bright, indirect light and cool temperatures indoors.
Outdoor
Plant Daffodils in well-draining soil with full to partial sun.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleNarcissus 'Acropolis', commonly known as the Acropolis daffodil, begins its life as a bulb, which remains dormant underground during the summer. As temperatures cool in autumn, roots develop and the bulb starts to sprout. In late winter to early spring, leaves and a flowering stalk grow, and the plant produces its characteristic white flowers with a central double trumpet of smaller petals and a ruffled corona. After blooming, the leaves continue to synthesize food through photosynthesis, which is stored in the bulb for the next growth cycle. Once the foliage dies back naturally, usually in late spring or early summer, the bulb enters dormancy again until the environmental conditions trigger a new cycle of growth. The plant can also reproduce during this time through seed dispersal or bulb offsets to initiate new plants.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The Daffodil 'Acropolis', a beautiful spring-flowering bulb, is typically propagated by dividing the bulb clumps. This is most commonly done after the foliage has died back in late spring or early summer. To propagate via division, the grower gently lifts the bulb clusters from the soil, taking care not to damage the bulbs. Each cluster is then gently broken apart, and individual bulbs are separated. These bulbs, which should ideally have some roots attached, can be replanted immediately at a depth of about 6 inches (about 15 centimeters) with the pointy end facing upwards. This method leverages the plant's natural reproductive cycle, ensuring a true-to-type propagation, and is widely used because it is simple and effective.
