Daffodil Narcissus 'Carib Gipsy' (2)
ABOUT
The Narcissus 'Carib Gipsy' is commonly known as daffodil. This variety has a distinct and attractive appearance that is characteristic of many daffodils, with some notable features that set it apart. The flowers have vibrant and colorful petals arranged in a star shape, with the outer petals usually being a striking white or cream color. At the center of these petals is a trumpet-like corona that is often brightly colored in shades of yellow, orange, or even pink, providing a stark and beautiful contrast to the lighter outer petals. The corona may have a frilled or ruffled edge, adding to the ornamental appeal of the bloom. The flowers are borne on sturdy stems that rise elegantly above the plant's foliage. The leaves are long and slender, with a rich green color that forms a lovely backdrop to the showy blossoms. As spring-blooming plants, daffodils of this variety herald the arrival of the new season with their cheerful and eye-catching display.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae
Synonyms
Daffodil, Jonquil, Narcissus
Common names
Narcissus 'Carib Gipsy'
ToxicityTo humans
Daffodil is toxic if ingested. All parts of the plant contain poisonous alkaloids such as lycorine, but the bulb is particularly toxic. If parts of the daffodil are ingested, it can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, it may lead to dehydration, convulsions, and in rare instances, can be life-threatening. Medical attention should be sought immediately if ingestion occurs.
To pets
Daffodil is toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. Ingesting any part of the plant, especially the bulb, can cause symptoms like vomiting, salivation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, heart rhythm abnormalities, tremors, and seizures. If a pet consumes daffodil, it requires prompt veterinary attention due to the risk of serious complications or even death.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
1-1.5 feet (30-45 cm)
Spread
1-1.5 feet (30-45 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: The Narcissus 'Carib Gipsy', also known as daffodil, has striking flowers that add aesthetic appeal to gardens and landscapes.
- Easy to Grow: Daffodils are known for being low-maintenance and easy to cultivate, which makes them suitable for amateur gardeners.
- Pest Resistance: Daffodils are generally resistant to deer and other pests, minimizing the need for chemical repellents.
- Long Blooming Period: They have a relatively long flowering season, which ensures colorful displays for extended periods in spring.
- Perennial Growth: Daffodils are perennials and will come back year after year, often multiplying and spreading over time.
- Naturalizing: They have the ability to naturalize, meaning they can spread and propagate naturally, creating larger displays over time.
- Cut Flower Usage: Daffodils are popular cut flowers and can be used in bouquets and floral arrangements.
- Symbolism and Tradition: Daffodils have various cultural significances and are symbols of rebirth and new beginnings, often associated with springtime festivals.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Narcissus 'Carib Gipsy' can be used in cut flower arrangements, providing a delicate and fragrant addition to bouquets with its vibrant white petals and contrasting corona.
- The plant's bulbs can be forced indoors during winter, adding a touch of spring to the home during colder months when they bloom out of season.
- Daffodil flowers symbolize rebirth and new beginnings, making them an appropriate gift for events such as graduations or new jobs.
- In horticultural therapy, engaging with the vibrant blooms of Narcissus 'Carib Gipsy' can aid in improving emotional well-being and reducing stress.
- The plant is used to commemorate special occasions in certain cultures and is often associated with the Chinese New Year as a symbol of good fortune.
- The sap from Narcissus 'Carib Gipsy' stems is traditionally used as a natural adhesive in small-scale arts and crafts, although it can be irritating to the skin for some people.
- Pressed daffodil flowers from the Narcissus 'Carib Gipsy' can be used in scrapbooking or to create botanical art as a way to preserve its beauty.
- During the Victorian era, daffodil bulbs were exchanged as tokens of affection between friends and loved ones.
- The distinct trumpet-like shape of Narcissus 'Carib Gipsy' makes them a popular subject for botanical illustration and photography, capturing their unique form and vibrant colors.
- These flowers can be used in natural dying processes to impart a range of yellow and orange hues onto fabrics, although the colorfastness may vary.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Daffodil is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Daffodil is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Self-Love: The Narcissus, commonly known as daffodil, is often associated with self-love, stemming from the Greek mythology of Narcissus who fell in love with his own reflection.
- Renewal: A common symbol of spring, daffodils signify rebirth and new beginnings, making them popular during celebrations of the new year and Easter.
- Unrequited Love: In some traditions, daffodils can represent unrequited love, possibly as a reflection of the one-sided affection Narcissus had for his reflection.
- Vanity: The daffodil's association with the Narcissus myth also brings with it a warning against excessive vanity and self-absorption.
WaterThe Daffodil 'Carib Gipsy' should be watered thoroughly, ensuring even moisture throughout the soil without making it soggy. During its growing season in the spring, water it once a week with about one gallon per square foot, depending on rainfall and temperature. After blooming, reduce watering as the foliage begins to die back. It's important not to water excessively as Daffodils are prone to rot if they sit in water-logged soil. Once the plant is dormant in summer, watering can be stopped until the next growing season.
LightDaffodils, including the 'Carib Gipsy', thrive in areas where they can receive full sun to partial shade. For optimal growth, place them in a spot where they will receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. They are adaptable but do their best when receiving morning sunlight and some afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates.
TemperatureDaffodils such as 'Carib Gipsy' prefer moderate temperatures and are hardy in zones 3-8. They can survive winter chill down to about -40 degrees Fahrenheit, and during the growing season, they thrive in temperatures between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. It's important to plant them in areas where they can remain cool during the spring and not be exposed to extreme heat before they have finished their growing cycle.
PruningPruning Daffodils like 'Carib Gipsy' mainly involves deadheading, which should be done after the blooms have faded to maintain appearance and prevent seed production. However, do not remove the foliage until it has yellowed and died back naturally, typically 6 weeks after flowering, as the leaves are replenishing the bulb for the next year. Pruning is done once a year, after flowering.
CleaningNot needed
SoilDaffodil 'Carib Gipsy' thrives in well-draining, moderately fertile soil with added organic material. A soil pH of 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal. You can create an optimal soil mix with equal parts of loam, sand, and compost to ensure proper nutrition and drainage.
RepottingDaffodils, including 'Carib Gipsy', typically do not need frequent repotting and are often left undisturbed for several years. If clumps become overcrowded, they can be lifted and divided after foliage dies back in late spring to early summer.
Humidity & MistingDaffodil 'Carib Gipsy' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does not require any specific humidity conditions. It will thrive in the average humidity found in most outdoor garden environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place 'Carib Gipsy' in bright, indirect light, and keep soil moist.
Outdoor
Plant 'Carib Gipsy' in full sun to partial shade and fertile soil.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleNarcissus 'Carib Gipsy', commonly known as daffodil, begins its life cycle as a bulb lying dormant underground during winter. In early spring, the bulb sends up shoots and leaves, followed by the development of a sturdy stalk that bears the distinctive flowers, with their central trumpet surrounded by petal-like tepals. After flowering, the plant enters a period of seed development, where the flowers, if pollinated, will produce seeds. However, many gardeners propagate daffodils primarily through bulb offsets rather than seeds. Following seed set or the end of the flowering period, the leaves will continue to photosynthesize and store energy in the bulb until they yellow and die back. The plant then goes back into dormancy, with the bulb resting and conserving energy for the next flowering season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The Narcissus 'Carib Gipsy', commonly known as daffodil, is typically propagated through division, a process most appropriately carried out in the late summer to fall, after the plant has finished blooming and has gone dormant. To propagate through division, carefully lift the daffodil bulbs from the ground using a fork or spade, taking care not to damage them. Gently separate the bulbs from the main clump, ensuring that each division has at least one growing point. These bulbs can then be replanted immediately at a depth about three times the height of the bulb, roughly 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters), and spaced about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) apart to allow room for growth. Water the newly planted bulbs well to help establish them. This method of propagation is simple and effective, helping to maintain the vigor of the daffodil clumps and providing a cost-effective way to increase the number of plants in your garden.
