Daffodil Narcissus 'Doctor Hugh' (3)
ABOUT
The Narcissus 'Doctor Hugh' is a stunning daffodil variety that captures attention with its striking flowers. Each blossom is characterized by a bright yellow perianth, which consists of six petal-like tepals that form an inviting backdrop for the prominent cup or corona at the center. This cup is distinctively colored, boasting an orange or deep apricot hue that creates a beautiful contrast with the surrounding yellow tepals. The flowers are borne on sturdy stems that rise gracefully above the plant's foliage. The leaves are slender, green, and strap-shaped, forming an elegant clump that frames the vibrant blooms. The overall appearance of Narcissus 'Doctor Hugh' is one of joyful vibrancy, with its colorful and cheerful flowers making it a popular choice for spring gardens.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Daffodil, Jonquil
Common names
Narcissus 'Doctor Hugh'
ToxicityTo humans
Narcissus 'Doctor Hugh', commonly known as daffodil, is toxic to humans. All parts of the daffodil contain poisonous alkaloids such as lycorine, which can cause symptoms if ingested. The ingestion can lead to nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In severe cases, it can lead to dehydration, tremors, convulsions, and even cardiac arrhythmias. Handling the bulbs may also cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
To pets
Daffodils, including the variety Narcissus 'Doctor Hugh', are toxic to pets. The toxic alkaloids, such as lycorine, are present in all parts of the plant, but the bulb is particularly potent. If ingested, symptoms in pets can include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, drooling, and in severe cases, cardiac abnormalities, respiratory depression, convulsions, and potentially, death. It is important to prevent pets from accessing or consuming any part of the daffodil plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
0.5 feet (15 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Adds aesthetic appeal to gardens and landscapes with its beautiful flowers.
- Pollinator Attraction: Attracts bees and other pollinators, supporting local ecosystems.
- Low Maintenance: Generally easy to care for, requiring minimal attention once established.
- Resilience: Tolerant to a variety of soil conditions and temperature fluctuations.
- Long Blooming Season: Provides a long period of blooms, usually in the spring, adding color to gardens when other plants are not yet flowering.
- Bulb Propagation: Bulbs can be divided to propagate new plants and spread the beauty around the garden.
- Symbolism: Often associated with rebirth and new beginnings, making it a thoughtful addition to special gardens such as memorial gardens.
- Deer Resistant: Less likely to be eaten by deer, protecting the plant and maintaining garden aesthetics.
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 'Doctor Hugh' bulbs can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, offering a range of yellow hues when used in the dyeing process.
- The stems of the Daffodil can be woven into baskets or other crafts, taking advantage of their fibrous nature.
- The sap from Daffodil stems has been used historically as a traditional glue for bookbinding and repairing pottery.
- Crushed Daffodil petals may serve as a color additive for natural inks or paints, giving a yellowish tint.
- The Daffodil plant can be planted as a mole repellent, as they are said to dislike the bulb's taste and odor.
- Daffodil flowers can be used in perfume-making, contributing to floral scents though it is not a common ingredient.
- Daffodil bulbs can be used in educational settings to teach children about plant growth and bulb propagation due to their hardiness and ease of growth.
- The shape and structure of Daffodil flowers can inspire artists and designers in fields like fashion where they might be embroidered onto garments.
- Dried Daffodil petals can be incorporated into potpourri mixes to add a subtle fragrance and decorative element to a room.
- The Daffodil can be a source of artistic inspiration, frequently used as a subject in photography, painting, and other visual arts due to its aesthetic beauty.
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: The Narcissus, commonly known as daffodil, often blooms in early spring, symbolizing the end of winter and the arrival of a new cycle of growth and renewal.
- Self-Reflection: Named after the Greek myth of Narcissus, who fell in love with his own reflection, the daffodil represents self-examination, reminding us to consider our actions and how we perceive ourselves.
- Unrequited Love: Daffodils can also symbolize unrequited love, possibly arising from the story of Narcissus and his inability to leave his reflected image, which may represent loving someone who cannot reciprocate.
WaterDaffodils, being the most common name for the Narcissus 'Doctor Hugh', typically need to be watered thoroughly at planting and then sparingly until they sprout. Once growth is visible, increase watering to about one inch of water per week, paying attention to rainfall to avoid overwatering. During the growing season, especially when in bloom, make sure the soil is moist but not soaked. If there is no rain, water your daffodils with about half a gallon of water per square yard once a week. Cut back on watering once the flowers have died back and the leaves are yellowing as they go dormant.
LightDaffodils prefer full sun to partial shade for the best growth and flower production. They should be planted in a spot that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. If full sun all day is not possible, daffodils will also flourish under light afternoon shade, particularly in hotter climates where some respite from intense midday sun is beneficial.
TemperatureDaffodils are hardy and can survive a range of temperatures but flourish best in moderate conditions. They can tolerate winter cold down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit but prefer a springtime temperature range between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal growth temperature is around 60 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and cooler at night.
PruningDaffodils require minimal pruning. After the flowers have faded, deadhead the spent blooms to prevent seed production, but leave the foliage intact. Allow the leaves to remain until they have yellowed and died back naturally, which typically takes about six weeks, as this period allows the bulbs to store energy for the next flowering season. Prune away dead foliage once it has fully yellowed and pulls away easily.
CleaningNot needed
SoilDaffodil 'Doctor Hugh' prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. A mixture of loamy garden soil, compost, and some sand or perlite aids drainage. It's crucial to have a fertile, humus-rich medium for optimal growth.
RepottingDaffodils, including 'Doctor Hugh', typically don't need frequent repotting and are often left undisturbed for several years. They should be repotted only when they become overcrowded, generally every 3 to 5 years.
Humidity & MistingDaffodil 'Doctor Hugh' does well in average humidity conditions; they do not require excessively high humidity levels. Maintaining a typical outdoor humidity range is generally suitable for these plants.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow in well-lit room, ensure pot has drainage holes.
Outdoor
Plant in sunny spot with well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Narcissus 'Doctor Hugh' (commonly known as Daffodil) starts with a period of growth from a bulb, which begins to sprout in late winter to early spring. Daffodils produce strappy leaves and a central flower stalk that supports a single bloom, which is typically yellow or white with a central trumpet-shaped corona. After flowering in the spring, the daffodil directs energy back into the bulb as the leaves photosynthesize before entering dormancy, usually in late spring to early summer, once the foliage has died back. During the dormant phase, the bulb rests and conserves energy within the soil. With the arrival of the next spring, the cycle repeats as the bulb breaks dormancy, and new growth emerges. The plant can also propagate through division of clumps of bulbs every few years, which helps to maintain its vigor and increase the number of plants.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Narcissus 'Doctor Hugh', commonly known as daffodil, can be effectively propagated through division of its bulbs, which is the most popular method for this plant. The best time for dividing daffodil bulbs is late spring to early summer, after the foliage has died back but it is still visible for easy location of the bulbs. To propagate, carefully dig up the bulbs and gently separate them from the main clump. Each section should have at least one growth point or bud. The individual bulbs can then be replanted immediately at a depth of about 6 inches (15 centimeters) with the pointy end up and spaced approximately 5 to 6 inches (12 to 15 centimeters) apart to allow for ample room for growth. Water the newly planted bulbs well to settle the soil around them and to help initiate root development. This simple process can result in a healthy spread of daffodils in the following spring.
