Daffodil Narcissus 'Arkle' (1)
ABOUT
Narcissus 'Arkle', commonly known as the daffodil, is a vibrant and eye-catching flowering plant. This plant typically showcases large, bright yellow flowers that are known for their classic trumpet-like shape at the center, encircled by a ring of petal-like tepals that may sometimes appear in a lighter shade of yellow or even a creamy white. The distinctive central trumpet, often called the corona, can be slightly ruffled at its edges and stands prominently at the center of each bloom. The daffodil leaves are slender, green, and sword-shaped, often arching slightly as they grow, providing a complementary backdrop to the striking flowers. The plant has a robust and upright appearance, with flowers that tend to face upward or slightly angled on sturdy stems, displaying their sunny hues. Overall, the Narcissus 'Arkle' exudes a cheerful and bold presence, often bringing an early pop of color that heralds the arrival of spring.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae
Synonyms
Daffodil, Jonquil, Narcissus
Common names
Narcissus 'Arkle'
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as daffodil, which includes Narcissus 'Arkle', is poisonous to humans if ingested. The toxicity comes from the presence of alkaloids such as lycorine and other compounds which can cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Ingesting a large amount of any part of the daffodil can lead to severe symptoms, including irregular heart rhythm, convulsions, and potentially could be life-threatening. Particular care should be taken to ensure that children do not eat any part of this plant.
To pets
Daffodils, including Narcissus 'Arkle', are toxic to pets such as dogs and cats if ingested. The bulb, plant, and flower of the daffodil contain compounds that can cause vomiting, salivation, diarrhea, low blood pressure, tremors, and cardiac arrhythmias. Serious cases, particularly if a pet eats a large quantity of the bulbs, can be fatal. It is important to prevent pets from accessing and ingesting any part of daffodils.
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- Decorative Appeal: The plant, also known as daffodil, has bright, cheerful flowers that enhance the beauty of gardens and landscapes.
- Low Maintenance: Daffodils require minimal care, making them suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Spring Bloom: They are among the first flowers to bloom in spring, bringing early color to the garden after winter.
- Naturalizing: Daffodils multiply and spread over time, creating a natural, wildflower look in the landscape.
- Pest Resistance: Daffodils are resistant to many pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- Cut Flower Potential: Their attractive blooms make excellent cut flowers for indoor arrangements.
- Hardiness: Daffodils are hardy and can survive in a range of climates and conditions.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, they can withstand periods of low rainfall.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Narcissus 'Arkle', commonly known as daffodil, can be used in natural dye production, with the petals providing varying shades of yellow and orange depending on the mordant used.
- Daffodil bulbs, when planted in garden beds, can deter rodents due to their toxic properties, which make them unappealing for consumption.
- The daffodil's spent flowers and leaves can be composted after they wilt to contribute to a nutrient-rich compost for gardening.
- Daffodils can serve as a cut flower preservative when their stem exudate is added to the water of other cut flowers to extend their vase life.
- Daffodils can be used in flower reading and symbolism for fortune-telling practices, where they represent renewal and the coming of spring.
- The dried crushed leaves and flowers of daffodil can be used in potpourri mixes to add a springtime fragrance to a room.
- A drawing or painting of daffodils can be used in art therapy sessions to evoke feelings of joy and hope in participants.
- Narcissus plants play a role in gardening as companion plants, with some gardeners believing they help protect neighboring plants from pests.
- The structural design of the daffodil has been studied for biomimicry applications, inspiring designs in architecture and functional art for their aesthetic appeal.
- Daffodil flowers can be crystallized with sugar and used as edible decorations for cakes and desserts, providing a unique visual and gustatory experience.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Daffodil is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Daffodil is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Renewal and New Beginnings - The Narcissus 'Arkle', commonly known as daffodil, often blooms in early spring, symbolizing the end of winter and the start of a new growth cycle.
- Self-Reflection - Named after the myth of Narcissus, daffodils can represent self-observation and introspection, serving as a reminder to consider our actions and their effects.
- Vanity - In line with the Greek myth, this flower can also symbolize excessive self-love and pride, cautioning against the perils of vanity.
- Prosperity - Daffodils are also considered bringers of good fortune and are associated with prosperity, especially when given as a bunch.
- Uncertainty or Unrequited Love - A single daffodil is sometimes seen as a symbol of misfortune, especially in matters of love, suggesting an unrequited affection or uncertainty in a relationship.
WaterDaffodils, including the Narcissus 'Arkle', should be watered deeply and thoroughly to encourage strong root growth. They need to be watered once a week with about 1 inch of water, equivalent to approximately 0.6 gallons per square yard, if there is no significant rainfall. During active growth and blooming in the spring, make sure the soil stays moist but not waterlogged. After the blooms have faded, you can reduce watering as the plant begins to go dormant, especially if rainfall is sufficient. Overwatering or allowing the bulbs to sit in soggy soil can lead to bulb rot.
LightDaffodils prefer full sun to partial shade. The ideal location for Narcissus 'Arkle' is a spot where they can get at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. These bulbs will also tolerate some light afternoon shade, but too much shade can reduce blooming. Therefore, choose a place with bright and direct light for best flowering results.
TemperatureDaffodils, like Narcissus 'Arkle', are cold-hardy plants that can survive winter temperatures down to about 5 degrees Fahrenheit. They perform best in areas where they receive a cold period and need this for proper dormancy and subsequent spring growth. Ideal temperatures for active growth are between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate temperatures slightly above this range but may not flower as well or the blooms may not last as long.
PruningPruning daffodils, like Narcissus 'Arkle', is limited to deadheading the spent flowers to maintain a tidy appearance and prevent seed formation, which can reduce the vigor of the plant. Leave the foliage intact until it turns yellow and dies back naturally, usually about six weeks after blooming, as this allows the bulbs to store energy for next year's growth. Pruning of the foliage should be done once it has died back completely, typically in late spring or early summer.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDaffodil 'Arkle' thrives in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.0 and 7.0. For optimal growth, a mixture of loam, sand, and peat can ensure proper drainage while retaining sufficient moisture. Amend the soil with organic matter to enhance fertility.
RepottingDaffodil 'Arkle' typically doesn't require frequent repotting as they are usually grown from bulbs that are planted directly in the ground or in containers. Bulbs should be lifted and divided every 3 to 5 years to prevent overcrowding and to maintain vigor.
Humidity & MistingDaffodil 'Arkle' tolerates a wide range of humidity levels and does not require special humidity conditions. Average ambient humidity found in outdoor environments suits them well, making them versatile for various garden settings.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light with cool temperatures.
Outdoor
Plant in well-drained soil; full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleNarcissus 'Arkle', commonly known as daffodil, begins its growth cycle in the fall when the bulb is planted in well-draining soil. As temperatures cool, the bulb enters a dormant period which lasts through winter, only to reawaken in early spring when the soil warms. The daffodil sprouts from the bulb, producing green shoots and leaves, followed by a flower stalk that holds a single, large trumpet-shaped bloom. After flowering in late spring, the plant enters a period of photosynthesis and energy storage, during which the foliage remains green and functional to replenish the bulb's energy reserves. Once the foliage has yellowed and died back typically in early summer, the daffodil re-enters dormancy, conserving energy in the bulb until the cycle restarts in the next fall. It can also propagate by forming new bulbs that grow adjacent to the parent bulb, expanding clumps of daffodils over time.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most prevalent method for propagating Narcissus 'Arkle', commonly known as daffodil, is through dividing and replanting the bulbs. This is usually done in the fall, after the foliage has died back, but before the ground freezes—typically in September or October. The bulbs are carefully dug up, and any offsets or smaller daughter bulbs that have formed attached to the mother bulb are gently separated. Each bulb should have a portion of the base and some roots attached. The bulbs are then replanted at a depth of about 6 inches (15 centimeters) and spaced 3 to 6 inches (7.5 to 15 centimeters) apart in well-drained soil with adequate sunlight. This method enables the gardener to increase their stock of daffodils and helps maintain the health and vigor of the plants by reducing overcrowding.
