Daffodil Narcissus 'Camilla Duchess of Cornwall' (2)
ABOUT
The Narcissus 'Camilla Duchess of Cornwall' is a captivating variety of daffodil known for its unique and elegant blooms that stand out in any spring garden display. The flowers are characterized by lovely double petals, which means rather than the usual single layer of petals surrounding a central trumpet or cup, this variety boasts several layers of petals, creating a ruffled and luxurious appearance. The petals are often a creamy white or soft ivory in color, exuding a sense of sophistication and charm. The inner petals may sometimes have a slight hint of soft yellow or peach, subtly accenting the creamy tones and adding depth to the flower's overall appearance. This color combination is soothing to the eye and contributes to its refined presentation. The center of the bloom can be a deeper shade, providing an exquisite contrast that enhances the flower's intricate design. The foliage of the Narcissus 'Camilla Duchess of Cornwall' is also worth mentioning, with slender, strap-shaped leaves of a fresh green color that arch gracefully, providing a lovely backdrop for the showy flowers. These leaves are not only visually appealing but also serve as a support structure for the blooms, which emerge on sturdy stems that rise elegantly above the foliage. Overall, the Narcissus 'Camilla Duchess of Cornwall' is a stunning plant that exudes a sense of luxury and grace. Its double blooms and sophisticated color palette make it a favorite among gardeners looking to add a touch of elegance to their spring gardens.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Camilla Duchess of Cornwall Daffodil, Camilla Duchess of Cornwall Narcissus
Common names
Narcissus 'Camilla Duchess of Cornwall'
ToxicityTo humans
The Daffodil is toxic if ingested by humans. All parts of the plant contain the alkaloid poison lycorine, with the bulb being the most poisonous part. If eaten, it can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Severe cases can result in cardiac arrhythmias, low blood pressure, tremors, and even seizures. Contact with the sap may also lead to dermatitis in sensitive individuals.
To pets
The Daffodil is also toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. The toxic principle, lycorine, is present in all parts of the plant but particularly concentrated in the bulb. Symptoms of poisoning include vomiting, salivation, diarrhea, convulsions, low blood pressure, tremors, and cardiac arrhythmias. Ingestion can be fatal, so veterinary attention is urgent if a pet consumes any part of a daffodil.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Narcissus 'Camilla Duchess of Cornwall' offers attractive blooms that enhance garden beauty, especially with its vibrant colors and unique flower shape.
- Spring Interest: Blooming in spring, it provides an early burst of color after the winter months, signaling the start of the growing season.
- Easy to Grow: This variety is known for being easy to care for, requiring minimal maintenance which is ideal for novice gardeners.
- Cut Flowers: The blossoms of this Narcissus are suitable for cutting and using in floral arrangements, adding a touch of elegance to indoor settings.
- Perennial Growth: As a perennial plant, it returns year after year, making it a cost-effective choice for gardeners who desire long-term plantings.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers can attract bees and other pollinators, which are essential for the health of the garden ecosystem.
- Resistant to Pests: Narcissus 'Camilla Duchess of Cornwall' is known to be resistant to many common garden pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- Naturalizing: It can spread and naturalize over time, filling garden spaces and creating a full, lush appearance with minimal effort.
- Hardy: This daffodil is generally hardy and can withstand frost, making it a good option for cooler climates.
- Varietal Diversity: As a specific cultivar, it adds to the botanical diversity of garden collections and enhances the variety of plantings.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Cut Flower Arrangements: The Narcissus 'Camilla Duchess of Cornwall' can be used in cut flower arrangements due to its beautiful blossoms and long vase life, adding elegance to bouquets and centerpieces.
- Photography Prop: Gardeners and photographers may utilize this variety as a subject for botanical photography owing to its unique coloration and form.
- Wedding Decor: Due to its refined appearance, the plant can be used in wedding decorations, including being part of bridal bouquets or table settings.
- Garden Design: This particular Narcissus can be used in garden design to create a focal point or to add a splash of color in spring borders and beds.
- Memory Gardens: Narcissus 'Camilla Duchess of Cornwall', like other daffodils, is often planted in memory gardens as a symbol of remembrance and renewal.
- Educational Tool: It can serve as an educational tool in horticulture courses, demonstrating hybridization and variety development in plants.
- Artistic Inspiration: Artists may draw inspiration from the intricate patterns and colors of this flower for various art forms, including painting and textile design.
- Scented Gardens: This plant can be included in scented gardens for its fragrance, which can be enjoyed during its blooming season.
- Therapeutic Horticulture: The act of planting and caring for these flowers can be used in therapeutic horticulture programs, providing participants with a sense of accomplishment and connection to nature.
- Eco-Friendly Gift: Bulbs of Narcissus 'Camilla Duchess of Cornwall' can be given as eco-friendly gifts for gardeners who appreciate sustainable and long-lasting garden additions.
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 and New Beginnings: As a spring-blooming flower, the daffodil represents renewal and the end of winter's dormancy.
- Unrequited Love: Derived from the Greek myth of Narcissus, the daffodil is sometimes associated with self-love and vanity, leading to a symbolism of unreturned affection.
- Chivalry: In some cultures, the daffodil is a symbol of chivalry and respect due to its upright and poised appearance.
- Hope and Encouragement: The bright bloom of the daffodil is seen as a sign of hope and encouragement, especially in the fight against diseases like cancer.
WaterDaffodils, including the Narcissus 'Camilla Duchess of Cornwall', require consistent moisture during the growing season, so water them whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Typically, this equates to about once a week, depending on weather conditions. When watering, aim for a deep watering rather than frequent shallow waterings, which encourages deeper root growth. During the active growing season, generally in the spring, they may need approximately one gallon of water per square foot per week. After blooming, reduce watering as the foliage begins to die back, signaling the end of the plant's active growth period.
LightDaffodils like Narcissus 'Camilla Duchess of Cornwall' thrive in full sunlight to partial shade. The best spot for these plants is one where they can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. However, in extremely hot climates, they appreciate some afternoon shade to protect them from intense heat.
TemperatureDaffodils, including the Narcissus 'Camilla Duchess of Cornwall', prefer cooler temperatures and can even endure brief periods of frost. They thrive in a temperature range from 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit but can survive winter temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit. It's crucial to plant them in an area that doesn't experience prolonged temperatures above 80 degrees Fahrenheit during their growing season.
PruningPruning daffodils, such as the Narcissus 'Camilla Duchess of Cornwall', is mainly about removing spent flowers and dead foliage. Deadhead flowers after blooming to prevent seed formation, but leave the foliage in place until it yellow and withers, typically 6 to 8 weeks after blooming. This allows the plant to photosynthesize and store energy in the bulb for the next year's growth. The best time for pruning daffodils is after the leaves have turned yellow and died back naturally.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDaffodils thrive in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of loamy soil with added compost or well-rotted manure and a handful of balanced slow-release fertilizer will support their growth. Moisture retention is important, but the soil should not be waterlogged.
RepottingDaffodils are typically grown from bulbs and do not need to be repotted often. Repotting can be done every 3 to 5 years or when the bulbs become overcrowded. It's best to repot after the foliage has died back in late spring or early summer.
Humidity & MistingDaffodils prefer average to moderately humid conditions. They do not have specific humidity requirements, but it is essential that they are not in excessively dry environments. Maintaining natural ambient humidity is sufficient for these plants.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and cool temperatures.
Outdoor
Plant bulbs in fall 2-4 inches deep, 3-6 inches apart.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Daffodil 'Camilla Duchess of Cornwall' begins its life as a bulb, which lies dormant underground through the winter. In early spring, it germinates and sprouts green shoots that rise above the soil's surface. The plant continues to grow, producing a stem and leaves, eventually blooming with a single white flower characterized by soft peach-pink cup set against star-shaped petals. After flowering, the plant goes through pollination, which may involve self-pollination or pollination by insects, leading to the development of seeds. The foliage then begins to die back as the plant enters a period of dormancy, reserving energy within the bulb to survive through the next winter and to regrow in the following spring. The cycle repeats annually, with the bulb dividing and potentially producing offsets, resulting in the gradual propagation of the plant.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The Narcissus 'Camilla Duchess of Cornwall', commonly referred to as daffodil, is typically propagated through division of bulbs. The best time to propagate daffodils by bulb division is in the late summer to early fall, after the foliage has died back but well before the ground freezes. To propagate, carefully dig up the clumps of bulbs and gently separate them. It's important to handle the bulbs with care to avoid damage. Each separated bulb can then be replanted immediately at a depth of about 6 inches (15 centimeters) and spaced 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) apart to ensure adequate room for growth. This method of propagation is advantageous because it encourages the rejuvenation of the clumps by providing more space for the individual bulbs to develop.
