Daffodil Narcissus 'February Gold' (6)
ABOUT
The Narcissus 'February Gold' is a striking early-spring flowering plant known for its vibrant yellow blooms. The flowers of this daffodil variety are characterized by a traditional trumpet shape, with a central corona surrounded by six petal-like tepals that are slightly swept back, giving them a refined and cheerful appearance akin to a trumpet fanfare. The golden-yellow color of the blooms is quite striking and can add a splash of brightness to any garden as they emerge among the last vestiges of winter. The blossoms are borne on individual stems, with each stem usually holding a single flower that faces upwards, greeting the sun. The leaves are slender and long, springing from the base of the stem, and presenting a deep green color that contrasts elegantly with the bright flowers above. As one of the early bloomers in the daffodil group, the 'February Gold' announces the coming spring with its sunny disposition, enlivening gardens and landscapes with its classic daffodil charm.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae
Synonyms
February Gold Daffodil, February Gold Narcissus
Common names
Narcissus 'February Gold'
ToxicityTo humans
Daffodil, including the 'February Gold' variety, is considered toxic to humans if ingested. All parts of the plant contain toxic alkaloids such as lycorine and others, with the bulb being the most poisonous part. If someone consumes any part of a daffodil, they might experience symptoms like nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Severe cases could lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and possibly systemic complications if a large quantity is ingested. Contact with the sap may also cause dermatitis in sensitive individuals. It is important to keep daffodils out of the reach of children and to not mistake the bulbs for edible onions or garlic.
To pets
Daffodil, including the 'February Gold' variety, is toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. All parts of the plant contain toxic compounds, but the bulb is the most dangerous. If a pet ingests any part of a daffodil, they may exhibit symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, excessive drooling, and sometimes even more serious cardiac arrhythmias or respiratory depression. Large ingestions can lead to severe poisoning and could be fatal. It is crucial to prevent pets from accessing any part of the plant, especially the bulbs. If you suspect your pet has ingested a daffodil, it is important to seek immediate veterinary care.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1 foot (30 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-8
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Early Spring Bloom: Adds vibrant color to a garden when many other plants are still dormant.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, making it ideal for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it can withstand periods of low water, reducing the need for frequent irrigation.
- Naturalizing: Spreads over time to create large, impressive displays without the need for replanting.
- Cold Hardy: Survives in cold winter climates, making it suitable for a wide range of geographic locations.
- Attracts Pollinators: Flowers provide nectar for bees and other beneficial insects early in the season.
- Deer Resistant: Tends to be avoided by deer and other grazing animals, protecting it from wildlife damage.
- Versatility: Suitable for a variety of garden styles, from formal to cottage gardens.
- Container Gardening: Can be grown in pots or containers for those with limited garden space.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Cut Flower Arrangements: Narcissus 'February Gold', commonly known as daffodil, can be used to create vibrant cut flower arrangements that bring early spring cheer indoors.
- Photography: The bright yellow blooms of 'February Gold' daffodils make them a popular subject for photographers capturing the first signs of spring.
- Eco-dyeing: The petals of 'February Gold' daffodils can be used in eco-dyeing, to naturally dye fabrics with subtle yellow hues.
- Garden Design: Daffodils can be planted in artistic patterns or clusters to create visual interest and focal points within garden landscapes.
- Symbolic Gifts: Daffodils are symbols of rebirth and can be used as a meaningful gift in spring festivals or other celebrations to represent new beginnings.
- Craft Projects: The flowers and stems can be incorporated into craft projects, such as paper making or botanical prints.
- Wedding Decor: 'February Gold' daffodils can be part of wedding decor, especially in early spring weddings, providing a natural touch of color.
- Learning Tools: Daffodils can be used in educational settings to teach children about plant biology and the life cycle of perennials.
- Festive Decorations: The flowers can be used to decorate during springtime festivities, such as Easter or May Day, to brighten up events and spaces.
- Art Inspiration: The striking appearance of 'February Gold' daffodils has inspired artists to include them in paintings, drawings, and other artistic expressions.
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: Narcissus 'February Gold' blooms at the end of winter, symbolizing the end of one cycle and the start of a new one.
- Vanity: The plant shares its name with the mythical figure Narcissus, known for his excessive pride and self-admiration, thus representing vanity.
- Wealth and Prosperity: The bright yellow hue of 'February Gold' is often associated with gold and wealth, making the plant a symbol of prosperity.
- Inspiration: As one of the first flowers to bloom in the year, it is seen as a muse for poets and artists signifying creativity and inspiration.
- Good Fortune: In Eastern cultures, the Narcissus is often associated with good luck and fortune, particularly around the Lunar New Year.
- Respect: Giving someone a Narcissus can express deep respect for the other person’s unique individuality.
WaterDaffodils, including the 'February Gold' variety, should be watered deeply so that the water reaches the roots. They require consistent moisture while they are actively growing and blooming but do not need much water once they enter dormancy. Typically, watering once a week with about an inch of water, or about 0.6 gallons per square yard, is sufficient if there is no significant rainfall. After they bloom, gradually reduce watering as the foliage begins to die back. It is critical not to overwater, as daffodils are prone to rot in soggy soil.
LightDaffodils, like the 'February Gold' variety, thrive best in full sun to partial shade. They should be planted in a spot where they receive at least six hours of direct sunlight a day. Though tolerant of a range of light conditions, they will bloom more prolifically when given ample sunlight. A location that provides morning sunlight with some afternoon shade is ideal to protect them from the intense heat of the day.
TemperatureDaffodils, including 'February Gold', can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but perform best when the weather is cool to moderate. They are hardy and can survive winter cold down to about 5°F. During their growing season, they prefer temperatures between 50°F and 70°F. High temperatures above 90°F can be detrimental to the plant and may inhibit flowering the following season.
PruningPruning daffodils, including 'February Gold', mainly involves deadheading the spent flowers to maintain a tidy appearance and prevent seed pod formation, which can divert energy from the bulb. Leave the foliage in place until it turns yellow and dies back naturally, usually around six weeks after blooming. Do not cut back the leaves until this point, as they are replenishing the nutrients in the bulb for the next season. Cut back the dead foliage at ground level once it has yellowed.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Daffodil 'February Gold' thrives in well-draining, fertile soil, with a preferred pH range between 6 and 7. A soil mix that includes loamy or sandy soil, compost, and a small amount of peat moss or coconut coir to retain slight moisture works best, ensuring that the bulbs do not sit in waterlogged conditions which can cause rot.
RepottingDaffodils, including 'February Gold', typically do not require frequent repotting and can be left undisturbed for several years. However, if clumps become overcrowded or performance declines, they can be divided and repotted after the foliage has died back, usually every 3 to 5 years.
Humidity & MistingDaffodil 'February Gold' is not particularly humidity sensitive and can tolerate a range of humidity levels found in typical outdoor environments. However, it's important to ensure that the location where they are planted does not retain excessive moisture, which can harm the bulbs.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and cool temperatures.
Outdoor
Plant in well-draining soil with partial to full sun.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleDaffodil 'February Gold' begins its life cycle as a bulb, lying dormant underground during the summer before sprouting in late winter or early spring. As the temperatures warm, green shoots emerge from the soil and elongate to form strap-shaped leaves. Soon after, the iconic yellow trumpet-shaped flowers develop, blooming early in the season compared to other daffodils. After flowering, the plant undergoes photosynthesis and stores energy in the bulb for the next year’s growth. Once the leaves yellow and wither, the plant enters dormancy again, with the bulb surviving through the summer and autumn. The cycle repeats each year, with the bulb potentially dividing to form offsets, thus propagating new plants.
PropogationPropogation time
Late Spring
The Narcissus 'February Gold', more commonly known as the February Gold daffodil, is predominantly propagated through division of bulbs. This technique is ideally performed in late summer to autumn, after the foliage has died back but before the ground freezes. To propagate, you dig up the clusters of bulbs carefully, trying not to damage them. Once the bulbs are lifted, you gently separate them by hand, ensuring each bulb has some root attached. The individual bulbs are then replanted at a depth of about 6 inches (15 centimeters), spaced 3-6 inches (7.5-15 centimeters) apart in well-drained soil with good sunlight. By the next spring, each bulb will have settled, matured, and will likely produce a bloom, continuing the cycle of growth. This method of propagation helps to rejuvenate crowded clumps of daffodils and increase the number of plants for the next flowering season.
