Daffodil Narcissus 'Chukar' (4)
ABOUT
The Narcissus 'Chukar' is a spring-flowering bulb plant commonly known as a daffodil. It typically boasts a captivating flower structure characterized by a prominent central trumpet or corona surrounded by a ring of petal-like structures called tepals or perianth segments. The trumpet is often a rich, vibrant color, contrasting with the outer ring, which is frequently a softer or paler hue. Each flower is borne on a stout stem that emerges from a base of linear, strap-shaped leaves that are a glossy green. These leaves form an attractive backdrop for the flowers, highlighting their form and color. The daffodil 'Chukar' is appreciated for its striking flowers that make it a standout in any springtime garden display, with it usually blooming in clusters that enhance its visual impact.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae.
Synonyms
Daffodil, Jonquil, Narcissus.
Common names
Narcissus 'Chukar'
ToxicityTo humans
Daffodil, including the Narcissus 'Chukar' variety, is toxic to humans if ingested. All parts of the daffodil contain toxic alkaloids such as lycorine and others which can cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In severe cases, it can lead to cardiac arrhythmias, hypotension, and even neurological issues like tremors or seizures. Handling daffodil bulbs may also cause skin irritation due to the presence of calcium oxalate crystals. Accidental ingestion, particularly by children, can be dangerous and requires immediate medical attention.
To pets
Daffodil, including the Narcissus 'Chukar' variety, is toxic to pets if ingested. The toxicity is due to the presence of alkaloids like lycorine, which can cause gastrointestinal upset in animals leading to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and sometimes even more severe symptoms like cardiac arrhythmias, difficulty breathing, convulsions, and a drop in blood pressure. Consumption of any part of the daffodil, particularly the bulbs, can be very dangerous for pets and can require prompt veterinary intervention.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1 foot 4 inches (40 centimeters)
Spread
0 feet 6 inches (15 centimeters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Narcissus 'Chukar' produces flowers that are attractive to bees and other pollinating insects, supporting local ecosystems.
- Easy to Grow: This daffodil variety is known for being easy to cultivate, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Spring Color: With its vibrant blooms, Narcissus 'Chukar' provides a burst of color in the spring garden when many other plants are not yet in flower.
- Naturalizing: This daffodil has the ability to naturalize, meaning it can spread and multiply, creating more robust and extensive displays over time.
- Deer and Rodent Resistance: Generally resistant to deer and rodents, which can help prevent damage to the garden without the need for chemical repellents.
- Longevity: Daffodils, including Narcissus 'Chukar', are perennial and often bloom reliably for many years with minimal care.
- Seasonal Interest: As a spring-flowering bulb, it contributes to the progression of seasonal interest in the landscape.
- Cut Flowers: The blossoms of Narcissus 'Chukar' are suitable for cutting and can be used to create fresh floral arrangements.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Narcissus bulbs can be used as a natural pest repellent in the garden; their scent is said to deter moles and voles.
- The crushed stems of daffodils can be added to compost heaps to accelerate the composting process due to their high levels of alkaloids.
- In some traditional practices, daffodil flowers are used to create a natural dye, giving fabrics a vibrant yellow hue.
- Narcissus 'Chukar' flowers can be placed in bowls of water to create floating flower arrangements for decorative purposes.
- The bulbs of daffodils can be carved into small stamps for use in craft projects when dried properly.
- Daffodil flowers can be used in flower therapy or chromotherapy, as their bright colors are believed to influence emotions and well-being.
- Pressed daffodil flowers are often used in scrapbooking and card making for their aesthetic appeal.
- Narcissus 'Chukar' can be used as a living mulch, where plants provide ground cover reducing weed growth and soil erosion.
- Daffodils can be planted around fruit trees to create a more attractive orchard design and potentially enhance pollinator visits.
- Narcissus petals can be used as a biodegradable confetti alternative in eco-friendly celebrations.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiNarcissus is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityNarcissus is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Renewal and New Beginnings: Since the Narcissus, commonly known as daffodil, typically blooms in early spring, it symbolizes rebirth and new beginnings associated with this season.
- Vanity and Self-absorption: The association with vanity and self-absorption comes from the Greek myth of Narcissus, a beautiful youth who fell in love with his own reflection.
- Prosperity and Wealth: In some cultures, daffodils are believed to bring good fortune and are associated with prosperity, especially when they bloom in abundance.
- Hope and Encouragement: The bright and cheery appearance of the daffodil often provides hope and encouragement, making it a symbol of support to individuals facing challenges.
- Unrequited Love: Another theme from the Narcissus myth is unrequited love, as Narcissus was unable to attain the object of his desire, his own reflection.
WaterDaffodils, including the Narcissus 'Chukar', should be watered thoroughly at planting time, and then they typically don't need much additional water unless there's a dry spell. When actively growing, they generally require about 1 inch of water each week, including rainfall. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overhead watering as it can promote the development of fungal diseases. During the dormant period, after the foliage has died back, watering should be ceased. It's important not to overwater as this can cause bulb rot.
LightDaffodils, such as the Narcissus 'Chukar', thrive in full sun to partial shade. They perform best when they receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. A spot that receives morning sunlight and afternoon shade can be beneficial in areas with very hot summers to prevent the bulbs from overheating.
TemperatureThe Narcissus 'Chukar' daffodil prefers cooler conditions and can survive winter temperatures as low as 15°F. They can tolerate temperatures up to 75°F during their growth period in the spring. Ideal growing temperatures for daffodils are between 50°F and 60°F, which are typical in springtime in their growing zones.
PruningNarcissus 'Chukar' daffodils do not require actual pruning, but the spent flowers should be deadheaded by removing the flower heads after blooming. This prevents the plants from putting energy into seed production. Leaves should be left in place to die back naturally, as they provide the nutrients necessary for next year's blooms. The best time to remove foliage is about 6 weeks after flowering, when the leaves begin to yellow.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFor Daffodil 'Chukar', the best soil mix is well-draining, fertile loam with added organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging around 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingDaffodil 'Chukar' bulbs should be repotted every 2-3 years to provide fresh soil and to divide overcrowded clumps.
Humidity & MistingDaffodil 'Chukar' thrives best in average outdoor humidity levels and does not require any special humidity considerations.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and keep soil moderately moist.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade, well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Daffodil 'Chukar' begins its life as a dry bulb which, when planted in the fall, will undergo a period of winter chilling (vernalization) to prepare for spring emergence. Once favorable temperatures arrive, roots develop and shoots break through the soil surface, growing into strap-like leaves and a central stalk bearing a single flower. After blooming in spring, the flower is pollinated and may produce a seed capsule, though daffodils are often propagated by bulb division. Post-bloom, the foliage photosynthesizes to replenish the bulb's energy reserves for the next growing season. As temperatures rise in late spring or early summer, the leaves yellow and die back as the plant enters dormancy. The cycle repeats annually, with the bulb remaining dormant underground during the hot summer months until the next fall planting period.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-early summer
The most popular method of propagation for the Narcissus 'Chukar', commonly known as the daffodil, is through bulb division. This process is typically carried out in the late summer to autumn, after the leaves have died back. Gardeners dig up the bulbs carefully, gently separating the small offset bulbs that have formed around the base of the mother bulb. These offsets, or bulblets, are then replanted immediately at a depth of about 6 inches (15.24 centimeters) to ensure they are adequately protected and have enough time to establish roots before the onset of winter. This method leverages the plant's natural reproduction cycle, offering a straightforward and reliable means of increasing daffodil numbers in the garden.
