Daffodil Narcissus 'Apollo Gold' (10)
ABOUT
Narcissus 'Apollo Gold', often referred to simply as daffodil, is renowned for its striking and cheerful blooms. This cultivar showcases prominent flowers characterized by a central trumpet-shaped corona that is encircled by a star-shaped whorl of petals. The 'Apollo Gold' daffodil typically presents a sunny yellow corona, which is vibrantly colored and often has a slightly ruffled edge, providing a sense of depth and texture. This corona contrasts beautifully with the surrounding petals that may be of a similar yellow hue or a paler shade, creating a harmonious yet eye-catching display. The blooms of the 'Apollo Gold' daffodil emanate from sturdy stems that rise gracefully from a base of long, slender, and slightly arching leaves. The foliage is a deep green, which complements the golden blooms and acts as a backdrop that enhances their visual impact. The leaves are linear with smooth edges, providing a sleek appearance that balances the flamboyant flowers. Each stem typically bears one, or occasionally more, flowers that stand proudly, heralding the arrival of spring. Overall, the appearance of Narcissus 'Apollo Gold' is one that brings a burst of warmth and vitality to any setting. Its distinct and vivid yellow blossoms serve as a classic symbol of springtime cheer, making it a beloved choice among garden enthusiasts and a popular feature in gardens, borders, and floral arrangements.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Daffodil, Jonquil, Narcissus.
Common names
Narcissus 'Apollo Gold'
ToxicityTo humans
Daffodil, including the Narcissus 'Apollo Gold', is considered toxic to humans. All parts of the plant contain poisonous alkaloids, with the bulb being the most dangerous part if ingested. The symptoms of daffodil poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and in severe cases, can lead to convulsions, low blood pressure, tremors, and cardiac arrhythmias. Handling the bulbs may also cause skin rashes in sensitive individuals.
To pets
For pets, daffodils are toxic as well. If a pet ingests any part of a daffodil, they may experience symptoms such as vomiting, intense gastrointestinal upset, abdominal pain, dyspnea (difficulty breathing), cardiac arrhythmias, convulsions, and severe cases can even be fatal. The bulb is the most toxic part, and even small amounts can be dangerous, so it is important to prevent pets from accessing these plants.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Enhances Garden Aesthetics: Bright yellow flowers add striking visual interest to gardens and landscapes.
- Easy to Grow: Adaptable to a variety of soil types and positions, suitable for many gardeners.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, making it ideal for busy gardeners.
- Attracts Pollinators: Flowers attract bees and butterflies, promoting pollination in the garden.
- Naturalizes Well: Capable of spreading and propagating on its own in conducive environments.
- Resistant to Pests: Generally not prone to pest problems, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- Long Blooming Period: Provides a lengthy display of color in spring gardens.
- Cut Flower Use: The blooms are suitable for cut flower arrangements, bringing beauty indoors.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, it can withstand periods of low rainfall.
- Seasonal Interest: Offers early spring interest after a long winter, signaling the arrival of warmer weather.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Narcissus bulbs can be used as a natural dye, providing a yellow to green color for wool and fabrics depending on the mordant used.
- The sap from Narcissus is sometimes used as a natural glue for small adhesions due to its sticky properties.
- Dried Narcissus petals are included in potpourri mixes for a sweet and fresh fragrance that can last for several months.
- Pressed Narcissus flowers are used in decorative arts for creating unique bookmarks, greeting cards, or framed botanical art.
- Floating Narcissus flowers in a bowl of water can serve as an elegant and simple table centerpiece for springtime events.
- Narcissus flowers are sometimes used in perfumery as a natural scent, particularly in creating floral and fresh fragrance notes.
- In crafting, the sturdy stems of Narcissus can be used to make natural wreaths or as part of floral arrangements in various craft projects.
- The plant's natural toxicity makes it a rodent repellent, often planted near vegetable gardens or crop fields to deter mice and other rodents.
- Narcissus flowers are used symbolically in literature and poetry to signify self-love and vanity, often employed by authors and poets.
- The bulbs of the Narcissus can be used in educational settings to teach about plant biology and the lifecycle of a bulbous plant.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Daffodil is associated with luck and prosperity in Feng Shui; placing them in the home can supposedly bring good fortune. They are commonly used during the Chinese New Year to invite positive energy and wealth.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Daffodil is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Renewal and New Beginnings: 'Apollo Gold' daffodil, as other daffodils, often bloom in spring, symbolizing the end of winter and the arrival of a new life cycle.
- Vanity and Self-absorption: Named after the Greek myth of Narcissus, a young man who fell in love with his own reflection, it often symbolizes egotism and excessive self-love.
- Unrequited Love: According to the same myth, the plant is associated with the idea of being in love with someone who does not return the affection.
- Hope and Optimism: Its bright yellow color is reminiscent of sunshine, often representing cheerfulness and a positive outlook on life.
- Prosperity: In some cultures, the daffodil is a symbol of wealth and success, possibly due to its golden hue.
WaterDaffodils like Narcissus 'Apollo Gold' require consistent moisture during the growing season. Water the plant deeply once a week, providing about 1 inch of water which can be roughly equivalent to 0.6 gallons per square foot. The goal is to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Once the flowers have bloomed and the foliage begins to yellow, you can gradually reduce watering as the plant goes dormant. Avoid overhead watering to prevent disease and instead focus on watering at the base of the plant.
LightDaffodils, including Narcissus 'Apollo Gold', perform best in full sunlight. They need a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight per day, so place them in a spot where they can enjoy the morning sunlight and are protected from the intense heat of the afternoon sun if you live in a particularly hot climate. Partial shade can be tolerated, but flowering is typically more prolific in full sun.
TemperatureDaffodils such as Narcissus 'Apollo Gold' are cold-hardy and can endure winter temperatures as low as 20°F, making them suitable for planting in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 8. They can thrive in temperatures up to about 70°F during the growing season. Ideally, daytime temperatures for planting and growing should be between 50°F and 60°F.
PruningPruning is not typically necessary for daffodils such as Narcissus 'Apollo Gold', but you may deadhead the flowers once they fade to maintain a neat appearance. Do not cut back the foliage until it has turned yellow and died back naturally, usually six to eight weeks after blooming, as this period allows the bulbs to store energy for the next season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDaffodil 'Apollo Gold' thrives best in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. A mix of loamy soil enhanced with organic matter, like compost or peat moss, will promote healthy growth. For container growth, a commercial potting mix amended with perlite or sand can be used to ensure proper drainage.
RepottingDaffodils, including 'Apollo Gold,' typically do not need frequent repotting. They should be replanted or divided every 3-5 years, or when clumps become overcrowded. It's best to repot them shortly after the foliage has died back.
Humidity & MistingDaffodil 'Apollo Gold' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does not require special humidity conditions. They perform well in the humidity levels typically found in outdoor garden environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place daffodils in a sunny spot and water sparingly.
Outdoor
Plant in well-drained soil with access to full or partial sun.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycle'Apollo Gold' Daffodil, typically a spring-blooming perennial, begins its life cycle when the bulb is planted in late summer to early autumn. After planting, the bulb goes through a period of root development in the fall, drawing nutrients from the soil to prepare for spring growth. With the onset of warmer temperatures and longer days in spring, the daffodil breaks dormancy, sending up shoots that develop into characteristic green stems and leaves, followed by the development of a flower stalk bearing the distinctive yellow flower typical of 'Apollo Gold' Daffodils. After flowering, the plant goes into a period of senescence where the foliage dies back and the plant directs energy back into the bulb for dormancy during summer months. The bulb remains dormant underground throughout the hot summer until the cycle restarts with root development in the subsequent fall. With each annual cycle, the bulb may produce offsets leading to the natural propagation of the plant over time.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The most popular method for propagating the Narcissus 'Apollo Gold', commonly known as daffodil, is by dividing the bulbs. Division is typically done in late summer to early fall, after the foliage has died back, but before the ground freezes. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the clump of bulbs and gently pull the bulbs apart, making sure that each section has at least one growing point. Replant the bulbs immediately at a depth of about 6 inches (15.24 cm), spaced 3-6 inches (7.62-15.24 cm) apart, and water them in well. This method of propagation is simple and effective, allowing gardeners to quickly increase their stock of daffodils and maintain the vitality of their existing plants.
