Daffodil Narcissus 'Boslowick' (11a)
ABOUT
Narcissus 'Boslowick' is a captivating variety of daffodil recognized for its attractive blooms. The flowers are characterized by a central trumpet or corona that is ruffled and often brightly colored, surrounded by a ring of six petal-like structures, commonly softer and paler in comparison to the trumpet which gives a stunning contrast. These daffodils typically showcase a beautiful sunny yellow hue throughout the entire flower or may feature a bi-color pattern where the trumpet and petals are of different shades, such as a soft yellow trumpet with pristine white petals around it. The blooms are known for their delicate fragrance and appear atop singular, sturdy stems that green in color. The foliage of the Narcissus 'Boslowick' consists of long, slender leaves that are also a vibrant green, adding to the overall graceful aesthetic of the plant. These leaves often grow in a clump and are slightly upright with a gentle arch. The daffodils have a fresh and cheerful presence, their blossoms heralding the arrival of spring.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae.
Synonyms
Daffodil, Narcissus, Jonquil.
Common names
Narcissus 'Boslowick'
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1-1.5 feet (30-45 cm)
Spread
0.5-1 feet (15-30 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: With its attractive flowers, Narcissus 'Boslowick' is widely appreciated for its aesthetic appeal, adding beauty to gardens and landscapes.
- Easy to Grow: The plant is known for being low maintenance and easy to cultivate, requiring minimal care, which makes it suitable for novice gardeners.
- Spring Bloom: It produces beautiful flowers typically in the spring, providing early color and interest after the winter months.
- Perennial Growth: As a perennial, it can be planted once and enjoyed for several springs as it comes back year after year.
- Drought Tolerance: This variety shows a degree of drought tolerance once established, making it suitable for gardens with less frequent watering.
- Pest Resistance: It is generally resistant to pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments and making it a more environmentally friendly option.
- Naturalizing: Narcissus 'Boslowick' has the ability to naturalize, meaning it can spread and become more prolific over time without much intervention.
- Low Disease Risk: The plant also tends to be resistant to many diseases, ensuring a healthy and thriving display with minimal effort.
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 'Boslowick', often known as Daffodil, can be used in perfume production due to its fragrant flowers, contributing a unique floral note to scent blends.
- The Daffodil's sap contains crystals of calcium oxalate, which can be used as a form of pest control since these crystals can deter certain insects and animals from eating the plant.
- The vibrant colors of Daffodils are used as a natural dye for fabrics, providing a subtle yellow hue without the use of synthetic dyes.
- Cut Daffodil flowers are commonly used in floral art and design classes as they have a sturdy stem that can be easily manipulated for arrangements.
- In photography, Daffodils serve as a popular subject in macro and nature photography, showcasing the flower's intricate structures.
- Gardeners use Daffodils to create "bulb lasagna" by layering different bulbs in a container to bloom at different times throughout the season.
- The Daffodil's bulb can be used as an organic adhesive in some traditional crafts, though this is a less common practice due to potential skin irritation.
- During certain festivals or cultural events, Daffodil flowers are woven into garlands or wreaths symbolizing the coming of spring or celebration of nature.
- Dried Daffodil petals are sometimes incorporated into potpourri mixes for a natural and aesthetically pleasing room fragrance solution.
- The Daffodil's distinct shape has inspired artists and designers and can be found in various decorative patterns on textiles, wallpaper, and ceramics.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Narcissus, also known as the daffodil, is not commonly associated with Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe daffodil is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Rebirth and New Beginnings: Narcissus flowers, commonly known as daffodils, often bloom around the time of spring, which symbolizes the departure from winter and the start of a new growth cycle.
- Self-Reflection: The name "Narcissus" stems from Greek mythology, where a young man named Narcissus falls in love with his own reflection. Thus, the flower can symbolize self-contemplation and introspection.
- Vanity and Self-Absorption: Following the Greek myth, the narcissus flower also comes to represent excessive self-love and vanity.
- Prosperity: Because they are one of the first flowers to bloom in spring, daffodils are often associated with good fortune and prosperity.
- Hope: The bright and cheerful appearance of the daffodil brings hope and is a comforting symbol to many people.
- Unequaled Love: In the language of flowers, daffodils are said to mean regard that no other can measure up to, suggesting an unequaled or unmatched love.
WaterDaffodils, including Narcissus 'Boslowick', should be watered deeply so that the water reaches the roots, approximately once a week. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, especially if rainfall is less than 1 inch per week, supplement with additional water by applying about 3 gallons per square yard every week. After blooming, reduce watering as the foliage begins to die back and the plant enters dormancy. Overwatering can lead to bulb rot, so it is important to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
LightDaffodils prefer a location where they receive full sun to partial shade. The best spot would be one that offers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, which encourages strong growth and optimal flowering. If planted under trees, ensure they are deciduous to allow sunlight to penetrate in the spring before the trees fully leaf out.
TemperatureDaffodils can withstand a wide range of temperatures and are cold-hardy down to about -20°F, making them suitable for many climates. They thrive best when the temperature is between 50°F and 70°F. Still, they need a cold period with temperatures between 35°F and 48°F for about 12 to 14 weeks for proper dormancy and to trigger blooming.
PruningDaffodils generally do not require pruning but deadhead spent flowers to maintain a tidy appearance and prevent seed production, which can drain energy from the bulb. Leave the foliage intact until it turns yellow and wilts naturally, typically 6 weeks after flowering, as this period allows the plant to photosynthesize and store energy for next year's bloom. Pruning too early can weaken the bulb.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDaffodils prefer well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter; a mix of loam, sand, and compost is ideal. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6 to 7.
RepottingDaffodils typically do not need to be repotted often; they can be left undisturbed for several years unless the bulbs become overcrowded.
Humidity & MistingDaffodils are tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and do best in outdoor conditions with natural ambient humidity.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light; keep soil moist but not soggy.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to part shade; ensure good drainage.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Narcissus 'Boslowick', commonly known as a variety of daffodil, begins its life cycle as a bulb planted in the ground, typically in the fall before the first frost. In the spring, it breaks dormancy with the emergence of green shoots, soon followed by flowering, which is the reproductive stage when it displays distinctive white or yellow petals and a central corona. After bloom, the plant enters a period of photosynthesis where the foliage matures and stores energy in the bulb for the next year. Once the leaves yellow and die back in late spring or early summer, the daffodil enters dormancy again during the hotter summer months. Bulbs may naturally divide, or 'offset', creating new bulbs that expand the clump over time. The annual cycle repeats itself each year with proper care and conditions.
PropogationPropogation time
Early Spring
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating Narcissus 'Boslowick', commonly known as daffodil, is through the division of its bulbs after the foliage has died down, generally in late summer to fall. To propagate, gently lift the clumps of bulbs using a spade, and carefully separate them by hand. Each division should contain at least one bulb with its basal plate and roots intact. Replant the bulbs at a depth of about 6 inches (approximately 15 centimeters) and space them about 6 inches apart to allow for adequate growing room. This simple technique helps to rejuvenate clumps that have become too crowded and ensures a vibrant display of flowers in the following spring.
