Daffodil Narcissus 'Bell Song' (7)
ABOUT
Narcissus 'Bell Song' is a daffodil that showcases a captivating display of blooms. It bears exquisite flowers that are known for their enchanting fragrance and distinctive color palette. Each flower features a striking crown, often referred to as a trumpet, which is bordered by a halo of lovely, slender petals. The trumpets tend to exhibit a rich, creamy ivory shade or a soft pastel pink, blending seamlessly into the more subtle tones of the outer petals. These outer petals, generally a lighter hue of white or pale yellow, gracefully arch back from the center trumpet, lending an elegant appearance. The smooth, linear leaves of the daffodil are a deep green, contrasting with the softer colors of the flowers and providing a lush backdrop to the bloom. The plant exudes a timeless appeal that makes it popular for gardens and floral arrangements alike.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Daffodil, Jonquil, Narcissus
Common names
Narcissus 'Bell Song'
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as daffodil is considered toxic if ingested. All parts of the plant contain alkaloids such as lycorine, with the bulb being the most poisonous part. Symptoms of daffodil poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and in severe cases, can result in cardiac arrhythmias, low blood pressure, tremors, and seizures. Contact with the sap may also cause dermatitis or skin irritation for some individuals.
To pets
Daffodils are toxic to pets, and this includes dogs, cats, and horses. Ingesting any part of the plant, especially the bulbs, can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, salivation, diarrhea, convulsions, low blood pressure, tremors, and cardiac arrhythmias. If a large amount is consumed, it could be fatal. It's important to prevent pets from accessing daffodils to avoid accidental poisoning.
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
3-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Narcissus 'Bell Song' is renowned for its beautiful flowers which have an attractive soft pink cup and white petals, adding aesthetic value to gardens.
- Spring Bloomer: As a variety of daffodil, it is one of the early spring bloomers, providing color and vibrancy to gardens after the winter months.
- Pest Resistant: These plants are generally resistant to deer and rodents, which makes them easy to maintain in areas where these animals are present.
- Low Maintenance: Daffodils are known to be low maintenance, requiring minimal care once they are established, and Narcissus 'Bell Song' is no exception.
- Naturalizing: Over time, Narcissus 'Bell Song' will multiply and spread naturally, filling out landscape areas without much human intervention.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers produce nectar and attract bees and other pollinators that are essential for the health of a garden ecosystem.
- Long-lived: Daffodils can live for many years and even decades, with Narcissus 'Bell Song' being no exception, making it a long-term addition to a garden or landscape.
- Cutting Garden Ideal: The flowers are suitable for cutting gardens; they can be used to create attractive floral arrangements that bring the beauty of the garden indoors.
- Forcing Capability: Narcissus 'Bell Song' can be forced indoors, which means they can be coaxed to bloom inside during the winter for additional indoor color and fragrance.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Narcissus 'Bell Song' petals can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics, giving them a soft yellow hue reminiscent of the flower’s own color.
- The stalks of the Narcissus plant can be included in homemade paper mixes, adding texture and botanical elements to the final product.
- Narcissus flowers are often used in perfumery, providing a rich, floral base note for various fragrances.
- Narcissus bulbs may sometimes be used in educational settings to demonstrate plant growth and root structures due to their large size and rapid growth.
- Dried Narcissus flowers can serve as a component in potpourri mixtures, contributing visual appeal and a mild scent.
- The plant can be used in floral artistry, including Ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arrangement, where its vivid appearance and structural form are appreciated.
- Narcissus flowers can be pressed and used in crafting, such as to decorate homemade greeting cards or bookmarks.
- The strong, rigid stems of the Narcissus can be utilized in small-scale model building as a natural and biodegradable alternative to synthetic materials.
- The essential oil extracted from Narcissus is sometimes used in aromatherapy for its supposed uplifting and relaxing properties.
- Narcissus 'Bell Song' can be grown as a companion plant in gardens to attract beneficial insects that aid in pollination and pest control.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Narcissus is traditionally associated with good fortune and wealth in Feng Shui. It's often recommended to place Narcissus in the southeast corner of your home or office to encourage abundance and prosperity, or in the front entrance to invite positive energy into your space.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Daffodil is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Renewal and New Beginnings: As a herald of spring, daffodils like 'Bell Song' signify the end of winter and a fresh start.
- Self-Absorption: Taking its name from the Greek myth of Narcissus, it can be a symbol of vanity and excessive self-love.
- Prosperity: Often associated with wealth and good fortune, especially when they bloom during the Lunar New Year in Chinese culture.
- Inspiration: The striking appearance of daffodils can represent creativity and the renewal of inspiration.
- Forgiveness: Gifting daffodils may express a desire for forgiveness or may be an olive branch in some cultures.
- Hope: Their propensity to bloom annually signifies resilience and hope for the future.
- Unequalled Love: Because they are often one of the first flowers to emerge, they can symbolize unyielding love that defies adversity.
WaterDaffodil 'Bell Song' typically requires consistent moisture during the growing season. Water the plants when the top inch of soil feels dry, which for most daffodils would be approximately once a week. Use a watering can or a soft spray to gently water the soil around the plant, allowing the water to soak in without causing erosion. The amount of water needed typically ranges from 1/2 to 3/4 gallons every time you water, depending on the size of the plant and environmental conditions. Overwatering can lead to bulb rot, so it's important to ensure good drainage and to reduce watering frequency once the flowering period is over.
LightDaffodil 'Bell Song' thrives in full sun to partial shade. It's best positioned in a location where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. However, in regions with strong midday sun, it can benefit from light afternoon shade to protect the blooms from excessive heat.
TemperatureDaffodil 'Bell Song' is tolerant of a range of temperatures and can survive minimum winter temperatures down to about 10°F. They prefer a spring climate with daytime temperatures between 50°F and 70°F, which are ideal for flowering. Daffodils can withstand brief periods of frost, but prolonged exposure to temperatures below the minimum may damage the bulbs or emerging shoots.
PruningDaffodil 'Bell Song' requires minimal pruning. Deadhead the flowers after they have faded, but leave the foliage intact until it dies back naturally. This allows the plant to photosynthesize and gather energy for next year's growth. Trimming back leaves should be done only after they have turned yellow, which usually happens a few weeks after flowering.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDaffodil 'Bell Song' thrives in well-draining soil that is moderately fertile with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0 to 7.0. An ideal soil mix can be made using equal parts of loam, sand or perlite, and compost to ensure good drainage and nutrient content.
RepottingDaffodils like 'Bell Song' typically do not require frequent repotting and do well when left undisturbed. They should be repotted only if the bulbs become overcrowded, which may happen every 3 to 5 years.
Humidity & MistingDaffodil 'Bell Song' prefers average humidity conditions and is tolerant of the humidity levels typically found in outdoor garden settings.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place 'Bell Song' in bright, indirect light and cool temps.
Outdoor
Plant 'Bell Song' in full sun to partial shade in fall.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleNarcissus 'Bell Song', commonly known as Daffodil, begins its life as a bulb, which remains dormant underground during the summer. In late summer or early fall, the bulb undergoes root growth in preparation for the winter. During late winter or early spring, the bulb sends up shoots, leaves, and a flower stalk; this is when the bell-shaped, fragrant flowers bloom, usually in clusters. After flowering, the plant goes through a period of photosynthesis and nutrient accumulation while the foliage is still green. The leaves eventually yellow and die back as the plant enters a dormant period, redirecting energy to the bulb for the next year's growth. The cycle repeats each year, with the daffodil bulb potentially dividing and producing offsets, leading to the spread and multiplication of the plant.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The propagation of Narcissus 'Bell Song', commonly known as Daffodil 'Bell Song', is most effectively carried out by dividing its bulbs after the foliage has died back, typically in late summer to fall. To propagate, carefully dig up the clumps of bulbs and gently separate the offsets, which are the small bulbs that form at the base of a mature bulb. Replant these smaller bulbs at a depth of about 6 inches (15 centimeters) and spaced about 3 to 5 inches (7.5 to 12.5 centimeters) apart in well-draining soil with adequate sunlight. Water the newly planted bulbs thoroughly to encourage root development. This method ensures genetic consistency and a higher success rate than seeding, making it the preferred choice for gardeners looking to expand their Daffodil 'Bell Song' displays.
