Daffodil Narcissus 'Conspicuus' ambig. (3)
ABOUT
The Narcissus 'Conspicuus' ambig. (3), commonly known as Daffodil, is a vibrant and eye-catching flowering plant. It boasts a distinctive trumpet-shaped central corona surrounded by a ring of six petal-like tepals. The corona is typically a deeper or contrasting color compared to the surrounding tepals, which adds to its striking appearance. The colors of the Daffodil 'Conspicuus' can vary, but they often display hues of bright yellow, which is a classic color for these cheerful spring bloomers. Some varieties may show off a combination of colors, like a yellow corona with white tepals or vice versa, creating a delightful two-tone effect. The flowers of this Daffodil stand out prominently against its dark green, strap-like leaves, which typically grow in a basal rosette formation at the base of the stem. The foliage provides a lush backdrop for the blooms and underscores the beauty of the vibrant flowers. Overall, the Daffodil 'Conspicuus' is a plant that heralds the arrival of spring with its vivid blossoms and contributes a splash of color to gardens and landscapes whenever it is in bloom. It is treasured by gardeners and flower enthusiasts for its bright appearance and the joyous ambiance it brings to outdoor spaces.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae
Synonyms
Garden Narcissus, Wild Daffodil, Lent Lily, Trumpet Narcissus
Common names
Narcissus 'Conspicuus' ambig.
ToxicityTo humans
The common name for Narcissus 'Conspicuus' is Daffodil. Daffodils contain toxic alkaloids such as lycorine and others, which can cause poisoning if ingested. The symptoms of daffodil poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and sometimes more severe reactions like cardiac arrhythmias or neurological issues. Skin contact with the sap can also cause dermatitis in sensitive individuals. It is important not to ingest any part of the daffodil plant due to its toxic properties.
To pets
The common name for Narcissus 'Conspicuus' is Daffodil. Daffodils are toxic to pets, including both cats and dogs. The toxic alkaloids, particularly lycorine, can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, drooling, and in severe cases, cardiac arrhythmias, respiratory depression, and even death if consumed in large quantities. All parts of the daffodil plant are considered toxic to pets and should be kept out of their reach.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1-1.5 feet (0.3-0.45 meters)
Spread
0.5-1 feet (0.15-0.3 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Value: Adds beauty to gardens with its vibrant and eye-catching flowers, enhancing the overall appeal of the landscape.
- Pollinator Attraction: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, which are vital for the pollination of many plants.
- Easy to Grow: Typically low-maintenance, making it accessible for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Spring Bloomer: Provides early spring color when few other plants are in bloom.
- Bulb Perennial: As a bulbous plant, it can multiply and return for several years, offering long-term garden interest.
- Cut Flower Use: The flowers are popular for cutting and using in floral arrangements or as indoor decorations.
- Rodent Resistant: Contains substances that are generally unappealing to rodents, reducing the likelihood of damage.
- Seasonal Interest: Marks the change of seasons with its flowering period, signaling the arrival of spring.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dye Production: The Narcissus 'Conspicuus' can sometimes be used to create a yellow dye, which is derived from the flowers.
- Perfumery: The scent of Narcissus flowers is used in the fragrance industry to create perfumes.
- Cut Flower Arrangements: Narcissus 'Conspicuus' is popular as a cut flower for bouquets and floral displays due to its striking appearance.
- Symbolism in Art and Literature: The Narcissus flower represents a variety of themes like vanity and self-reflection in art and poetry.
- Photography Subject: Due to its unique look, Narcissus is a favorite subject for photographers, especially in springtime.
- Ethnobotany: In some cultures, Narcissus plants are used in traditional rituals or as a symbol of wealth and prosperity.
- Garden Design: Narcissus 'Conspicuus' is often used in garden design for its early spring color and as a companion plant in flower beds.
- Victorian Language of Flowers: In the language of flowers, Narcissus can symbolize unrequited love or self-esteem.
- Floral Clocks: Narcissus 'Conspicuus' can be included in a floral clock because it has predictable blooming periods that can indicate specific springtime hours.
- Bee Forage: Narcissus flowers can provide an early source of nectar for bees and other pollinators coming out of hibernation.
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-absorption: The Narcissus is often associated with narcissism and self-involvement due to the Greek myth of Narcissus, who fell in love with his own reflection.
- Renewal: As a spring-blooming flower, Narcissus symbolizes new beginnings and the rejuvenation of nature.
- Vanity: In addition to self-absorption, the Narcissus has ties to vanity, reflecting excessive pride in one's appearance or achievements.
- Wealth: Certain cultures associate the bright yellow color of some Narcissus flowers with wealth and prosperity.
- Good Fortune: In East Asian cultures, the Narcissus is believed to bring good fortune, particularly around the Lunar New Year.
WaterDaffodils, which is the common name for Narcissus 'Conspicuus', prefer consistent moisture during the growing season. Water these plants deeply about once a week to encourage deep root growth, providing about 1 inch of water each time which typically amounts to around 0.5 gallons for an average-sized plant. Once blooming has finished and the leaves start to yellow, you can reduce watering as the plant prepares to go dormant. It's crucial not to overwater, as this can lead to bulb rot. During the dormant period, in the summer and fall, daffodils require little to no additional watering unless the weather is exceptionally dry.
LightDaffodils thrive in areas that receive full to partial sunlight. They perform best when they get at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day, so planting them in a spot that receives morning sun and afternoon shade can be ideal. Avoid placing them in deep shade as this can impede their growth and reduce flowering.
TemperatureDaffodils are hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. They can survive winter freezes and can grow well in zones with a minimum temperature of 1°F. The ideal temperature for vigorous growth ranges between 50°F and 70°F during their growing season. Extreme heat during the summer can be detrimental, so it's beneficial if they are in a dormant state during the hottest months.
PruningPruning daffodils is mainly about deadheading spent flowers to encourage healthy bulb development for the next season. Remove the flower heads after blooming but leave the foliage intact until it dies back naturally. It is typically not necessary to prune daffodils more than once a year, and the best time to do this is late spring or early summer after they have finished flowering.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Daffodils, which is the common name for Narcissus 'Conspicuus', is well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0. A mixture of loam, peat, and perlite or sand can provide adequate drainage and nutrients.
RepottingDaffodils are typically not repotted often as they are grown from bulbs; they can be left undisturbed for several years. However, if clumps become overcrowded, they should be divided and replanted after flowering in the spring.
Humidity & MistingDaffodils prefer average humidity levels, consistent with outdoor conditions. They do not have specific humidity requirements and can thrive in the variable humidity levels typically found in a garden environment.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in a well-lit spot with cool temperatures.
Outdoor
Plant in well-drained soil with full to partial sun.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of the Narcissus 'Conspicuus', commonly known as Daffodil, begins with a dormant bulb that germinates in late winter or early spring, depending on the climate. The bulb develops roots and shoots, with the shoots emerging above ground as temperatures rise. The plant then grows long, slender leaves and a central flower stalk, culminating in the blooming of a single, striking flower typically in the early to mid-spring. After flowering, the plant undergoes a period of photosynthesis to store energy in the bulb for the next season. By late spring or early summer, the leaves yellow and die back as the plant goes into dormancy. The bulb remains dormant throughout the summer and autumn, reactivating its growth cycle the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating the daffodil, which Narcissus 'Conspicuus' is commonly known as, involves dividing the bulbs. This practice is ideally done in the late summer to early fall, once the foliage has died back, indicating that the plant has gone dormant. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the clump of daffodil bulbs and gently separate them, ensuring that each division has at least one growing point or bud. As bulbs can vary in size, no exact measurement is necessary; they should simply be large enough to contain the necessary energy for regrowth. The individual bulbs can then be replanted immediately at a depth approximately three times the height of the bulb, roughly 6-8 inches (15-20 centimeters), and spaced about 3-6 inches (7.5-15 centimeters) apart to allow for adequate growing room.
