Poet's Daffodil Narcissus 'Actaea' (9)
ABOUT
Narcissus 'Actaea', commonly known as the Poet's Daffodil, boasts an elegant appearance that captivates many garden enthusiasts. The plant is characterized by its striking flowers, which are a display of pure white petals arranged around a small, eye-catching cup at the flower's center. This central cup is distinctively marked, having a crimson band along the edge which provides a sharp contrast to the creamy-white background. The flowers emit a delightful fragrance, making the Poet's Daffodil a favorite for both the garden and cut flower arrangements. The foliage is also notable, consisting of long, narrow, and slightly arching leaves that emanate a lush, green hue. These leaves form an attractive backdrop for the blooms, creating a picturesque setting when the plant is in full flower. The Poet's Daffodil typically blooms in the spring, heralding the season with its vibrant and aromatic display. The overall appearance of the plant exudes a classic charm that is celebrated in many traditional and contemporary gardens.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae.
Synonyms
Poet's Narcissus, Pheasant's Eye, Poet's Daffodil, Narcisse des Poètes, Findern Flower, Pinkster Lily.
Common names
Narcissus 'Actaea'
ToxicityTo humans
The plant in question is commonly known as daffodil. All parts of the daffodil plant are toxic if ingested by humans due to the presence of alkaloids such as lycorine and others specific to the Narcissus genus. Symptoms of daffodil poisoning may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In severe cases, ingestion can also lead to cardiac arrhythmias, low blood pressure, tremors, convulsions, and in rare instances, can be fatal if enough of the plant is consumed.
To pets
The daffodil plant is also toxic to pets, such as cats and dogs. Similar to humans, consuming any part of the plant can lead to symptoms including vomiting, salivation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, heart rhythm abnormalities, and respiratory depression. In severe cases, ingesting daffodils can cause major organ damage and can be potentially fatal, especially if a large amount is consumed. Pet owners should ensure that daffodils are kept out of reach of their animals to prevent accidental ingestion.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1-1.5 feet (30-45 cm)
Spread
0.5 feet (15 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
4-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Narcissus 'Actaea' is known to attract bees and other beneficial insects, which assist in pollination and overall garden health.
- Easy to Grow: This daffodil variety is relatively low-maintenance, adaptable to a range of soils, and does not require expert gardening skills.
- Spring Color: Flowering in spring, it provides early splashes of white color with a small red-rimmed yellow cup, brightening up gardens after winter.
- Naturalizing: Over time, Narcissus 'Actaea' bulbs multiply and spread, providing more blooms each year without needing to replant.
- Deer and Rodent Resistant: The bulbs and flowers are not palatable to deer and rodents, making them an excellent choice for areas where these animals are a problem.
- Longevity: These daffodils are known to be long-lived, providing many years of enjoyment without needing to be replaced.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, they can tolerate periods of dry weather, making them suitable for gardens with less predictable rainfall.
- Seasonal Interest: As one of the first flowers to bloom in spring, they signal the end of winter and the start of the growing season.
- Low Disease and Pest Problems: Narcissus 'Actaea' plants are generally free from serious disease and pest troubles, contributing to their ease of care.
- Cut Flowers: They make excellent cut flowers for arrangements due to their attractive blossoms and long vase life.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As a natural dye: The flowers of the daffodil can be used to create a yellow dye for fabrics and crafts.
- In perfumery: The scent of daffodil blossoms can be used in the creation of certain perfumes or fragrant oils.
- As a pest repellent: Planting daffodils in and around a garden can deter certain rodents and deer which do not like their toxin-containing bulbs.
- For flower arrangements: Daffodils are popular in cut-flower arrangements and can be used to add a touch of spring to interior decorations.
- In art and symbolism: Daffodils have been used as a motif in art due to their association with rebirth and can symbolize new beginnings or inspiration.
- As a bio-indicator: Daffodils can serve as bio-indicators as they often bloom at a specific time, indicating seasonal changes or even climate change effects.
- Photography: The daffodil's vibrant color and distinct shape make it a popular subject for photographers, especially in springtime garden settings.
- In festive decorations: Daffodils are commonly used in decorations for spring festivals and Easter due to their seasonal significance.
- For educational purposes: Daffodils can be used in botanical studies due to their unique reproductive biology and variety among species.
- In poetry and literature: The daffodil has been a subject of poems and stories, symbolizing beauty, solitude, and the transient nature of life.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Daffodil is not commonly referenced in traditional Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Daffodil is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Rebirth and New Beginnings: The Narcissus 'Actaea', also known as the Daffodil, is one of the first flowers to bloom in spring, symbolizing the end of winter and the arrival of new growth and fresh starts.
- Self-Reflection: Named after the Greek myth of Narcissus, this flower represents self-reflection, encouraging individuals to see both their strengths and weaknesses.
- Vanity: Echoing the story of Narcissus, who was obsessed with his own reflection, Daffodils can sometimes be associated with vanity and excessive self-love.
- Prosperity: In some traditions, Daffodils are believed to bring good fortune and are often associated with wealth and success.
- Hope: The bright and cheerful appearance of the Daffodil can be a symbol of hope and optimism, suggesting better times ahead.
- Respect: Giving a bouquet of Daffodils can be a sign of deep respect and adoration, making it a thoughtful gift for someone you admire.
- Unrequited Love: Daffodils can also represent unanswered love, possibly stemming from the myth of Narcissus who could not leave or reciprocate the affection of the nymph Echo.
- Chivalry: Some see the Daffodil as a representation of chivalry and regard it as a flower that symbolizes gentlemanly respect and gallantry.
- Remembrance: Daffodils are often used in memorials and remembrance events as they signify the everlasting memory of loved ones and the desire to never forget them.
WaterThe paperwhite, or Narcissus 'Actaea', generally requires moderate watering. Water the soil thoroughly when the top inch feels dry to the touch, which could be about once a week depending on environmental conditions. Avoid overwatering as this can lead to bulb rot. Use approximately 16-24 onzes of water for each plant, ensuring the moisture reaches the roots without leaving the soil waterlogged. During the dormancy period, after the leaves have died back, reduce watering significantly to prevent the bulb from rotting.
LightThe paperwhite prefers bright, indirect light for optimal growth. A spot near a south-facing window that receives plenty of light but is shielded from the direct midday sun is ideal. These conditions mimic the natural environment of the paperwhite, which is bright yet filtered sunlight.
TemperaturePaperwhites thrive in temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. These plants can tolerate a minimum temperature around 50 degrees Fahrenheit and a maximum temperature of about 75 degrees Fahrenheit, but they should not be exposed to extreme heat or frost. The ideal range provides the conditions needed for healthy growth and blooming.
PruningPaperwhites seldom require pruning. After flowering, the flower stems may be cut back to prevent seed formation. Once the foliage starts to yellow and die back naturally, typically a few weeks after flowering, it can be cut down to the base. This annual pruning allows the bulb to conserve energy for the next growing season.
CleaningNot needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Daffodil 'Actaea' is well-draining, fertile, and humus-rich. A mix of two-thirds loam and one-third aged leaf mold or compost is suitable. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, around pH 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingDaffodil 'Actaea' typically does not need frequent repotting. Repot the bulbs every 3 to 5 years, or when the clumps become overcrowded and flowering diminishes.
Humidity & MistingDaffodil 'Actaea' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does not require any special humidity conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow in well-lit area; keep soil moist but not wet.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade; ensure proper drainage.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleNarcissus 'Actaea', commonly known as the Poet's Daffodil, begins its life cycle as a bulb, entering a period of dormancy during the summer months. In late summer to autumn, roots start to develop, signaling the initiation of the growing phase. As temperatures cool in the fall, the bulb sends up strap-like green leaves and a central stalk, with flower buds developing at the top. The flower typically blooms in early to mid-spring, showcasing white petals with a small, yellow cup edged with red. After flowering, the plant directs energy back into the bulb as the leaves photosynthesize, replenishing the bulb's energy reserves. Once the foliage dies back in late spring or early summer, the plant reenters dormancy, ready to repeat the cycle the following season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The most common method of propagating the Narcissus 'Actaea', commonly known as the Poet's Daffodil, is through dividing its bulbs. This process is best carried out in late summer, after the foliage has died back, signaling that the plant has entered dormancy. To propagate, carefully dig up the clumps of bulbs without damaging them, and gently separate the smaller offset bulbs from the main bulb. These offsets, or "daughter bulbs," can then be replanted immediately at a depth about three times the height of the bulb, approximately 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters). Ensure that the new planting site has well-draining soil and full to partial sun exposure for optimal growth. Over time, these offsets will mature and produce flowers, continuing the cycle of growth for the Poet's Daffodil.
