Daffodil Narcissus 'Cedric Morris' (1)
ABOUT
The Narcissus 'Cedric Morris' is a captivating plant known widely by its common name, the daffodil. This variety features strikingly beautiful flowers and is a harbinger of spring. The blooms of 'Cedric Morris' are characterized by their unique coloration—a soft, pale pink cup surrounded by slightly paler, almost white petals that radiate outward, creating a star-like effect. The contrast of the soft pink against the paler petals is particularly eye-catching. The trumpet-shaped central cup, which is a key feature of daffodils, is frilled with a ruffled edge, lending a delicate, ornate appearance to the flower. The petals are broad and slightly curved, coming to a gentle point at the tips. Like other daffodils, 'Cedric Morris' grows from a bulb and has sturdy, upright stems that support the weight of the flowers. The leaves are slim and blade-like, with a deep green color that provides a lush background for the dainty, nodding flowers. The foliage emerges first, followed by the long stalks that hold the flowers aloft. Each stem typically bears a single bloom, but sometimes more, creating clusters of these radiant flowers. The overall impression is one of elegance and simplicity, with the daffodils standing proudly as if to herald the end of winter and the arrival of warmer days.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae
Synonyms
Cedric Morris Daffodil, Cedric Morris Narcissus
Common names
Narcissus 'Cedric Morris'.
ToxicityTo humans
Narcissus 'Cedric Morris', commonly known as daffodil, is toxic to humans if ingested. All parts of the daffodil contain toxic alkaloids, with the bulb being particularly poisonous. Symptoms of daffodil poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and in severe cases, cardiac arrhythmias, convulsions, and even potentially life-threatening complications if a significant quantity is consumed.
To pets
Daffodils are also toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. Similar to humans, the bulbs are the most dangerous part, but any part of the daffodil plant can cause symptoms if ingested. These symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, heart rhythm abnormalities, respiratory depression, and even tremors or seizures in severe cases. 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
Pink
Height
1-1.5 feet (30-45 cm)
Spread
6 inches (15 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
4-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Narcissus 'Cedric Morris' offers high ornamental value with its attractive blooms, adding aesthetic beauty to gardens and landscapes.
- Low Maintenance: This plant is easy to care for, requiring minimal upkeep once established, which makes it ideal for both novice and experienced gardeners.
- Pest Resilience: The plant is known to be resistant to many common pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- Drought Tolerance: It has good drought tolerance, making it suitable for areas with water restrictions or for gardeners seeking water-wise plants.
- Cold Hardy: Narcissus 'Cedric Morris' is cold-hardy, which means it can survive through frost and colder temperatures without significant damage.
- Bulb Multiplication: The bulbs of this plant naturally multiply over time, providing more plants for future seasons without additional cost.
- Attracts Pollinators: It is attractive to pollinators such as bees, which is beneficial for the pollination of gardens and local ecosystems.
- Long Bloom Period: This narcissus typically has a lengthy blooming period, offering prolonged periods of floral display during its season.
- Seasonal Interest: The plant's flowering time in early spring provides interest during a time when many other plants have yet to start growing.
- Adaptable: Narcissus 'Cedric Morris' can thrive in a variety of soil types as long as adequate drainage is provided.
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 'Cedric Morris', commonly known as daffodil, can be used as a natural dye. The flowers, when boiled, can produce varying shades of yellow depending on the mordant used.
- The bulbs of daffodils contain a substance called galanthamine, which is being studied for use in treating Alzheimer's disease.
- Daffodil flowers are often used in the art of pressing and can be framed as a decorative element or used in craft projects for their distinct shape and color.
- The sap of daffodils is known to be toxic and can be used as a natural pest repellent to protect other plants in gardens and horticultural settings.
- When planted in large numbers, daffodils can prevent soil erosion on slopes due to their hardy root systems which hold the soil firmly.
- In some regions, dried daffodil petals are used in potpourri mixes to add a spring-like fragrance and bright color to the mix.
- Daffodil flowers can act as seasonal indicators in temperate climates, their blooming often signals the beginning of spring and gardening season.
- Daffodils are sometimes used in flower reading and symbolism, where they might be interpreted to represent regard, chivalry, or unrequited love.
- As part of a wildlife-friendly garden, daffodils can provide an early source of nectar for pollinators such as bees when other sources are scarce.
- Daffodils can be used in photography and art as a subject to symbolize rebirth, new beginnings, and the coming of spring.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Narcissus is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Narcissus is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Rebirth and New Beginnings: Narcissus, commonly known as daffodil, is one of the first perennials to bloom after winter, symbolizing the advent of spring and the idea of starting anew.
- Unrequited Love: Derived from Greek mythology, where the story of a young man named Narcissus falls in love with his reflection, the daffodil can represent self-love and the inability to see others' affections.
- Vanity: Again owing to the myth of Narcissus, daffodils can symbolize excessive self-admiration and vanity.
- Prosperity: In some cultures, blooming daffodils are seen as a symbol of wealth and success, especially when they bloom around the time of the Chinese New Year.
- Hope: Daffodil's emergence after the cold winter is seen as a sign of hope and optimism for the future.
WaterFor a Narcissus 'Cedric Morris', commonly known as Jonquil, it is crucial to ensure the soil is kept moist but not waterlogged during its growing season. Water the plant thoroughly once a week, providing approximately 1/2 gallon of water for each plant. During the dormant period after flowering, reduce watering to every few weeks, just enough to prevent the soil from completely drying out. Adjust the frequency during exceptionally hot or dry periods, as the plant may need more water to prevent stress.
LightJonquils prefer bright, indirect sunlight and should be positioned in a spot that receives partial shade or morning light, with protection from harsh afternoon sun. An east-facing window or a lightly shaded garden spot is ideal for providing the light conditions they thrive in.
TemperatureJonquils are comfortable in a wide range of temperatures, generally thriving between 50°F and 70°F. They can survive short periods outside this range, with a minimum temperature tolerance of around 20°F and a maximum of about 80°F, but the ideal growing conditions are within the moderate temperature band.
PruningJonquils typically require little to no pruning. After flowering, allow the foliage to die back naturally, providing nutrients for the bulb. Remove spent flowers to prevent seed formation. Cutting back the foliage should only be done once it has turned yellow and begun to wither, usually a few weeks after blooming.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDaffodil 'Cedric Morris' prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6 and 7. A mix of loam, sand, and compost is ideal to provide good drainage and fertility. Amend soil with organic matter to enhance its structure.
RepottingDaffodils, including 'Cedric Morris', generally do not need frequent repotting and can be left undisturbed for several years. Repot only when the bulbs become overcrowded, typically every 3 to 5 years.
Humidity & MistingDaffodil 'Cedric Morris' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does not require specific humidity conditions, making it a versatile garden plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and cool temperature.
Outdoor
Plant in partial sun; ensure soil is well-drained.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleNarcissus 'Cedric Morris', commonly known as daffodil, begins its life cycle as a bulb, which lies dormant beneath the soil during the summer. When temperatures cool in the fall, roots begin to grow, and by late winter or early spring, shoots emerge from the bulb, heralding the growth period. The plant grows stalks and foliage, and buds develop which eventually bloom into the characteristic flowers with a central trumpet surrounded by six floral leaves in early to mid-spring. After flowering, the plant enters a post-bloom period where the leaves photosynthesize to replenish the bulb's energy reserves. Once the leaves die back in late spring or early summer, the daffodil enters a dormant phase again until the next growth cycle starts. During dormancy, the bulb can split to form offsets, which may develop into new plants, thus continuing the propagation of the species.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating Narcissus 'Cedric Morris', commonly known as a daffodil, is by dividing and replanting the bulbs. This is best done when the plants have died back completely and are dormant, typically in late summer to early fall. To propagate, gently dig up the clumps of bulbs and separate any small bulbs that have formed attached to the mother bulb. Ensure each bulb has some root attached and plant them immediately at a depth that is three times the height of the bulb, spaced about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) apart to ensure they have enough room to grow. This straightforward method ensures genetic consistency and is an effective way to expand your daffodil display or share with fellow gardeners.
