Daffodil Narcissus 'Andrew's Choice' (7)
ABOUT
Narcissus 'Andrew's Choice' is a cultivar known for its ornamental appeal, often referred to by its common name, daffodil. This plant features a striking floral display with blooms characterized by a unique combination of colors. The flowers of 'Andrew's Choice' daffodil are notable for their trumpet-shaped crowns, which typically exhibit a contrasting color palette. They have a central cup or corona that is surrounded by a whorl of petal-like tepals. The overall appearance of the flower is often compared to a sunny, cheerful countenance, which is why daffodils are associated with spring and renewal. The petals of the daffodil may come in a variety of shades, ranging from pure white to golden yellow. 'Andrew's Choice', in particular, may feature a distinctive hue or pattern that sets it apart from other daffodil varieties. The trumpet or corona may be a different shade, often deeper or brighter, adding to the visual interest of the bloom. The foliage of 'Andrew's Choice' daffodil consists of slender, long leaves that are green, typically emerging from the base of the plant. These leaves are sword-shaped and may have a slightly arching form, creating an elegant backdrop for the striking flowers. The arrangement of the leaves and flowers gives the plant an overall balanced and harmonious appearance.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae
Synonyms
Daffodil, Jonquil, Narcissus
Common names
Narcissus 'Andrew's Choice'
ToxicityTo humans
The common name for Narcissus 'Andrew's Choice' is Daffodil. Daffodils are toxic to humans if ingested. The daffodil plant contains alkaloids such as lycorine that can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. More severe cases can involve symptoms such as tremors, heart problems, and even convulsions. In general, eating any part of the plant, especially the bulbs, can result in these toxic symptoms.
To pets
The common name for Narcissus 'Andrew's Choice' is Daffodil. Daffodils are poisonous to pets if ingested. Consuming any part of the daffodil plant can result in symptoms like vomiting, salivation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, heart rhythm abnormalities, and even respiratory depression. In severe cases, ingesting daffodil bulbs can lead to serious systemic complications and could be fatal for pets. It is important to keep daffodils out of reach of pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1-1.5 feet (30-45 cm)
Spread
0.5 feet (15 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Flowers: Narcissus 'Andrew's Choice' produces showy, fragrant blooms that add color and visual interest to gardens in the spring.
- Easy to Grow: Daffodil is considered a low-maintenance plant, requiring minimal care once established, making it ideal for beginner gardeners.
- Drought Tolerance: Once daffodils are established, they exhibit a degree of drought tolerance, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Pest Resistance: Daffodils are generally resistant to many pests and diseases, keeping the garden healthy without the need for chemical interventions.
- Naturalizing: Daffodils have the ability to spread and naturalize over time, creating a fuller, more robust garden display with little extra effort.
- Longevity: Many daffodils, including 'Andrew's Choice', are perennials, meaning they can live for several years, providing long-lasting garden enjoyment.
- Wildlife Attraction: The flowers can attract beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies, contributing to pollination in the garden.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dye Production: Petals of the Narcissus can be used to produce a yellow or orange dye for textiles, giving fabrics a unique and natural color.
- Photography: The striking appearance of Narcissus can be used in macro photography as a subject to capture the intricate details and vibrant colors, providing aesthetic appeal to photography enthusiasts.
- Art Inspiration: Narcissus flowers can serve as an inspiring muse for artists, lending their distinctive shapes and colors to various forms of art such as painting or sculpture.
- Perfume Industry: While not a common ingredient, the subtle scent of Narcissus 'Andrew's Choice' has the potential to be used in creating exclusive and bespoke fragrances.
- Garden Design: Narcissus can be used in thematic garden designs, such as a 'yellow garden' or a 'spring-blooming bulb' feature, adding visual interest and seasonal beauty.
- Eco-friendly Confetti: Dried petals of Narcissus can be used as biodegradable confetti for outdoor celebrations, reducing environmental impact compared to plastic confetti.
- Educational Tool: Narcissus plants can be used in educational settings to teach about bulbous plant growth, reproduction, and seasonal lifecycles in botany classes.
- Floral Arrangements: Narcissus flowers can add height and structure to floral arrangements, making them a focal point for table centerpieces or bouquets.
- Botanical Illustration: The detailed structure of Narcissus lends itself well to botanical illustration, documenting the plant's morphology and contributing to science and art.
- Culinary Garnish: Although not traditionally used in cooking, the petals of the Narcissus could be used as an ornamental garnish for culinary dishes, after ensuring they are safe and non-toxic for such use.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Daffodil is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Daffodil is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Rebirth - Commonly associated with the new growth and rejuvenation that comes with the spring season.
- New Beginnings - Often given as a gift to symbolize a fresh start or a hopeful future.
- Self-Love - Reflects the Greek myth of Narcissus, who fell in love with his own reflection, indicating a healthy sense of self-worth.
- Vanity - Can also represent excessive self-admiration and ego, as suggested by the same Greek myth.
- Wealth - Historically in the East, particularly in China, it is a symbol of wealth and prosperity, as it blooms around the Chinese New Year.
- Fortune - Considered a bearer of good fortune and success in some cultures.
- Insight - The blooming of the daffodil is thought to symbolize an inner reflection leading to a deeper understanding of self.
WaterDaffodils, including 'Andrew's Choice', benefit from consistent moisture during the growing season. They should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry, generally once a week, allowing the water to soak into the soil and reach the roots. A good method is to use a watering can or a gentle stream from a hose to avoid disturbing the soil or foliage. In terms of the amount, aim for approximately 1 gallon of water per plant every week during active growth periods. In the dormant phase post-blooming and during the summer, watering can be reduced significantly or stopped altogether.
LightDaffodils, including 'Andrew's Choice', prefer full sunlight to partial shade. They thrive best when they receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. An ideal spot is one that gets morning sun and some afternoon shade, particularly in hotter climates, to protect them from the harsh afternoon sun.
TemperatureDaffodils, like 'Andrew's Choice', are hardy and can tolerate temperatures as low as 15 degrees Fahrenheit without damage. They typically flourish in temperatures that range between 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature range encourages vigorous growth and optimal flowering.
PruningDaffodils, including 'Andrew's Choice', should be deadheaded after flowers fade to prevent seed formation, which can divert energy from bulb growth. However, do not cut the foliage until it turns yellow, usually 6 to 8 weeks after blooming, as the leaves are necessary for photosynthesis to replenish the bulb. Pruning is generally limited to removing spent flowers and yellowed leaves only.
CleaningNot needed
SoilDaffodil 'Andrew's Choice' thrives in well-draining, moderately fertile soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. A mix with equal parts potting soil, loamy garden soil, and sand or perlite promotes good drainage. Annual addition of compost enriches the soil.
RepottingDaffodils, including 'Andrew's Choice', typically do not need frequent repotting and can remain in the same spot for several years. Repotting every 3-5 years or when the bulbs become crowded is sufficient.
Humidity & MistingDaffodil 'Andrew's Choice' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity conditions. Aim for average room humidity as extreme dryness or high humidity is not required for its growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, cool temperatures, and sufficient water for indoor daffodils.
Outdoor
Plant in fall, full sun to part shade, provide well-draining soil for outdoor daffodils.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleNarcissus 'Andrew's Choice', commonly known as Daffodil 'Andrew's Choice', begins its life cycle as a bulb planted in the fall before the ground freezes. The bulb undergoes a period of winter dormancy, during which it requires a cold period to initiate spring growth. With the onset of spring, the bulb sends up leaves and a flower stem, leading to the blooming period when the characteristic yellow flowers of the daffodil emerge. After flowering, the plant enters a post-blooming phase where energy is transferred back to the bulb as the foliage dies back, which is critical for the bulb to store energy for the following year. Throughout the summer, the bulb lies dormant underground once more. The cycle repeats yearly, with new bulbs potentially forming beside the parent bulb to propagate the plant.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method to propagate Narcissus 'Andrew's Choice', commonly known as daffodil, is through bulb division. This is typically done in the late summer to early fall, once the foliage has died back. Gardeners carefully dig up the bulbs and gently separate them into individual sections, making sure that each division has at least one growing point. They then replant the bulbs at a depth of approximately 6 inches (about 15 centimeters), spaced 3 to 6 inches (roughly 7.5 to 15 centimeters) apart to ensure enough room for growth. By the following spring, these newly planted bulbs should produce their own flowers, continuing the cycle. It's important to handle the bulbs with care to avoid damage, which could affect their ability to bloom.
