Daffodil Narcissus 'Double Event' (4)
ABOUT
Narcissus 'Double Event', commonly known as a type of daffodil, boasts a particularly striking appearance due to its double flowers. The blooms of this plant feature a plethora of petals that are often arranged in multiple layers or whorls, giving them a lavish, full look reminiscent of a petticoat. These petals typically exhibit a vibrant yellow hue, with the possibility of a contrasting color at the base, commonly referred to as the eye, which can be a deeper golden, orange, or even a subtle green. The trumpet, which is characteristic of daffodils, might be ruffled or festooned in this variety, adding to the ornate impressiveness of the bloom. The overall effect of the double blooms is one of lushness and decadence, making the 'Double Event' daffodil a showstopper in any setting. These blossoms are borne atop sturdy stems that emerge from clumps of strap-shaped, green leaves. The foliage is usually glossy, creating an attractive background that highlights the exuberant blooms. This daffodil cultivar is able to add a touch of spring brilliance wherever it's planted, turning heads with its ostentatious flowers that are a sure sign of the warmer season coming into full swing.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae
Synonyms
Double Daffodil, Peony Narcissus, Double Narcissus
Common names
Narcissus 'Double Event'
ToxicityTo humans
Daffodil 'Double Event' is considered toxic to humans if ingested, as are all parts of daffodils. The primary toxic agents in daffodils are lycorine and other alkaloids, which can cause a range of symptoms. If someone ingests parts of the plant, they might experience nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In severe cases, ingestion could lead to more serious symptoms such as cardiac arrhythmias or neurological issues, but such severe reactions are rare and typically associated with the ingestion of large quantities of the plant material.
To pets
Daffodil 'Double Event' is also toxic to pets, including both cats and dogs. Similar to their effect on humans, the alkaloids, particularly lycorine, can cause vomiting, salivation, diarrhea, convulsions, low blood pressure, tremors, and cardiac arrhythmias. If a pet ingests a part of the daffodil, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately. The bulb of the daffodil is the most poisonous part, and consuming even a small amount can lead to significant health issues.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1-1.5 feet (30-45 cm)
Spread
0.5 feet (15 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: The Narcissus 'Double Event' is known for its attractive double flowers, which enhance the visual appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Spring Bloom: This variety of daffodil typically blooms in spring, providing early color and vitality after winter.
- Low Maintenance: Daffodils require minimal upkeep once established, making them a practical choice for busy gardeners.
- Pest Resistance: Daffodils are generally resistant to pests, reducing the need for chemical interventions.
- Drought Tolerance: Once settled in, daffodils can tolerate periods of dryness, making them suitable for various climates.
- Naturalizing: Daffodils have the ability to multiply and spread over time, creating a naturalized look in the garden.
- Longevity: Daffodils are perennial, often living for many years and providing seasonal blooms annually.
- Cut Flowers: The flowers are suitable for cutting and creating indoor floral arrangements.
- Cold Hardy: Daffodils are able to withstand colder temperatures, making them a good choice for gardens in cooler climates.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Narcissus 'Double Event' can be used in cut flower arrangements for its unique double-form blooms, offering a longer-lasting and fragrant alternative to traditional cut flowers.
- The bulbs of the daffodil can serve as a natural pest repellent in the garden due to a toxic alkaloid they contain, deterring rodents and other pests from eating them and nearby plants.
- Dried daffodil petals can be incorporated into potpourri mixes, adding a springtime scent to rooms and drawers.
- The flowers can be pressed and used in craft projects such as homemade greeting cards, bookmarks, or framed botanical art.
- The strong stems of the daffodil can be used in children's garden craft projects, such as making miniature garden statues or floral crowns.
- When in bloom, daffodil gardens can serve as an educational tool for botany and horticulture classes, illustrating plant development and flowering stages.
- Narcissus flowers can be used in photography as a prop or backdrop for spring-themed sessions due to their bright and cheerful appearance.
- The plant can be utilized in landscape design principles, such as planting in drifts, to create visual impact through color and form in gardens and parks.
- Daffodils can be used as a natural dye source for fabrics and crafts by using the petals to extract yellow and orange hues.
- In a permaculture garden, daffodil bulbs can be interplanted with annual vegetables to create a more diverse and resilient ecosystem.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Daffodil is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Daffodil is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Vanity and Egoism: Named after the Greek myth of Narcissus, a character known for his self-obsession, the Narcissus often symbolizes excessive self-love and vanity.
- New Beginnings: As a herald of spring, daffodils, including Narcissus 'Double Event', symbolize rebirth and new beginnings.
- Unrequited Love: The Narcissus can also represent unrequited love, perhaps inspired by the myth where Narcissus falls in love with his own reflection.
- Prosperity: In some traditions, daffodils represent prosperity and are considered lucky to be the first bloom in your garden in the new year.
WaterDaffodils, including the 'Double Event', require consistent moisture during their growing season but do not like to be waterlogged. Water daffodils when the top inch of soil begins to dry out. Depending on weather conditions, this may mean watering once a week with about one inch of water, or approximately half a gallon per square yard of soil. After blooming, you can reduce watering as the foliage begins to die back and the plant goes dormant. Avoid watering daffodils in the dormant season, as too much water can lead to bulb rot.
LightDaffodils prefer bright, full sunlight for optimal growth and flowering. Place them in a location where they can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. They can tolerate partial shade, but flowering may not be as abundant. The ideal spot for daffodils is an area with unfiltered morning sunlight and partial shade during the hottest part of the afternoon.
TemperatureDaffodils are hardy and can withstand winter freezes, surviving in temperatures down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit. They prefer a springtime temperature range between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal growing conditions for daffodils are cool to moderate temperatures; prolonged exposure to temperatures above 75 degrees Fahrenheit may inhibit their growth and flowering.
PruningPruning daffodils is generally not necessary except for removing spent flower heads to prevent seed formation, which can be done soon after the flowers have faded. Leave the foliage intact until it turns yellow and begins to wither, usually 6 to 8 weeks after blooming, as the leaves are necessary for photosynthesis to replenish the bulb for the next season. At this point, you can cut the leaves at ground level.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Narcissus 'Double Event' or Daffodil should be well-draining and fertile with a slight acidity to neutral pH, ideally ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of equal parts garden soil, peat, and sand or perlite would provide the right texture and nutrients for healthy growth.
RepottingDaffodils, including Narcissus 'Double Event', generally do not need frequent repotting and can be left undisturbed for several years. It's recommended to repot or divide the bulbs every 3 to 5 years to prevent overcrowding and maintain vigor.
Humidity & MistingDaffodils like Narcissus 'Double Event' prefer average room humidity levels. They are not particularly humidity-sensitive and can tolerate the humidity levels found in most home environments without the need for adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in well-lit area, keep soil moderately moist.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade, well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Narcissus 'Double Event', commonly known as the Double Daffodil, begins with a dormant bulb that awakens in late winter or early spring. This bulb sends up shoots that develop into long, strap-like leaves and a central flower stalk, followed by the flowering stage where one or more double-layered, fragrant blooms appear, usually in a yellow or white hue. After flowering, the plant enters a photosynthesizing phase to store energy in the bulb for the next season; during this time, the leaves remain green and should not be cut back. As summer approaches, the foliage yellows and dies back as the plant goes into dormancy, conserving energy within the bulb. The bulb remains dormant through the summer and fall until environmental conditions trigger the start of the next growing season. This cycle repeats annually, with the bulbs potentially dividing and producing offsets that can be separated and planted to propagate new plants.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The most popular method for propagating Narcissus 'Double Event', commonly known as daffodils, is through division of their bulbs. The ideal time to propagate by bulb division is in the late summer to autumn, after the foliage has died back but before the ground freezes, typically from late August to September. To propagate, carefully lift the clump of daffodil bulbs from the ground using a garden fork, avoiding damage to the bulbs. Once lifted, gently separate the bulbs by hand, ensuring that each division has at least one growing point. Replant the bulbs immediately at a depth of about 6 inches (approximately 15 centimeters) and space them about 6 inches apart to give them enough room to grow. The separated bulbs will then settle in and establish roots before the onset of winter, emerging as new plants in the spring.
