Daffodil Narcissus 'February Silver' (1)
ABOUT
Narcissus 'February Silver' is a perennial bulbous plant commonly known as Daffodil. Its appearance is characterized by striking flowers that exhibit a unique charm in the late winter to early spring landscape. The blooms of the Daffodil showcase a combination of colors typically a pale yellow or creamy white petals that are arranged in a whorl around a central, trumpet-like corona (the cup) that traditionally displays a softer, contrasting hue, creating a two-toned effect. This central cup might be ruffled or smooth-edged, adding to the intricacy of the flower's design. The foliage of the Daffodil consists of slender, sword-shaped leaves of a lush, deep green color that emerge from the base of the stem and provide an elegant backdrop for the showy flowers. The leaves are slightly fleshy with a linear form that arches gracefully, complementing the overall aesthetic of the plant. The Daffodil's blooms are held atop sturdy, slender stalks that rise vertically from the bulb, creating a poised and stately presentation. Each stalk typically bears a single flower, but occasionally there may be a cluster of blooms that enhance the visual impact of the plant in the garden. The overall appearance of the Narcissus 'February Silver' is one of delicate beauty, offering a bright and cheerful presence in the transitioning seasons, hinting at the arrival of springtime warmth and the resurgence of life in the garden.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
February Silver, Daffodil, Jonquil
Common names
Narcissus 'February Silver'
ToxicityTo humans
Daffodil 'February Silver' contains toxic alkaloids such as lycorine that can cause poisoning if ingested. Symptoms of daffodil poisoning in humans include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In severe cases, it can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and even convulsions. Handling the plant, especially the bulb, can sometimes cause skin irritation due to its crystalline oxalate content.
To pets
Daffodil 'February Silver' is toxic to pets due to the presence of lycorine and other compounds mainly concentrated in the bulbs but also present in the leaves and flowers. If a pet ingests any part of a daffodil, it can suffer from symptoms such as vomiting, salivation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, heart rhythm abnormalities, and respiratory depression. In severe cases, daffodil poisoning may lead to tremors, convulsions, and can potentially be fatal if not treated promptly.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1.28 feet (0.4 meters)
Spread
0.5 feet (0.15 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Early Spring Color: It blooms early in spring, providing a cheerful display after the winter months.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its delicate white flowers with yellow centers, it adds beauty to gardens and landscapes.
- Easy to Grow: It is generally easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of soil conditions.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it can tolerate periods of low water, making it suitable for xeriscaping.
- Naturalizing: It has the ability to spread and naturalize in an area, creating a more abundant display over time.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers attract bees and other pollinators, which are essential for the health of gardens and ecosystems.
- Deer Resistance: It is often resistant to deer, which can help to prevent damage to the garden.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Narcissus 'February Silver' can be used in the art of flower pressing for creating decorative bookmarks, greeting cards, or framed botanical art due to their distinct shape and color.
- The blooms of Daffodils can serve as a natural dye for fabrics, offering a range of yellow shades, depending on the mordant used.
- Daffodil flowers are sometimes used in perfumery as a source of fragrance, particularly for creating floral and spring-themed scents.
- The bulbs of Daffodils can be used in educational settings to teach children about plant growth and development by observing the stages from bulb to flower.
- During certain festivals, Daffodils are woven into garlands or wreaths as part of cultural or religious celebrations to symbolize rebirth and new beginnings.
- The cultivation of Daffodils can promote biodiversity in gardens, providing nectar for bees and other pollinators early in the season.
- Daffodils are sometimes used as a motif in textile designs, offering a springtime theme for fabrics used in home decor.
- In photography, Daffodils can serve as a picturesque subject for botanical photography, capturing the essence of early spring.
- As a subject for poetry and literature, the Daffodil has been referenced for centuries, serving as inspiration for writers and poets.
- Used in culinary presentations, the bright Daffodil blooms can serve as a non-toxic garnish to add visual appeal to springtime dishes, although they should not be consumed.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Narcissus, associated with the Chinese New Year, is believed to attract good fortune and prosperity when placed in the home or office. According to Feng Shui, it is especially auspicious to display the Narcissus during the Lunar New Year celebration to invite wealth and positive energy into your life.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Narcissus is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Rebirth and New Beginnings: The Narcissus typically blooms in early spring, symbolizing the end of winter and the arrival of new life.
- Pride and Vanity: Named after the Greek myth of Narcissus, who fell in love with his own reflection, the flower sometimes represents excessive self-love and egotism.
- Prosperity: 'February Silver', blooming towards the end of winter, signals the anticipation of wealth and success with the coming of spring.
- Inspiration: The Narcissus is associated with inspiration, possibly due to its bright, uplifting appearance at the end of a dark season.
- Self-Respect: Additionally, the flower can symbolize self-esteem and the importance of respecting oneself.
WaterFor the Daffodil 'February Silver', water thoroughly whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Typically, this might be once a week, but it can vary greatly depending on the time of year and the climate conditions. During the active growing season in spring, you might find the need to water more frequently, especially if the weather is particularly warm or windy. When watering, provide enough water to soak the soil around the bulbs, which could be approximately one gallon per square yard every week during peak growth. Reduce watering after the flowers have died back and the foliage is yellowing, signaling that the bulbs are entering dormancy.
LightDaffodil 'February Silver' thrives best in full sun to partial shade. A location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight is ideal for vigorous growth and optimal flowering. However, they can tolerate some light afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates, which can help protect the flowers from fading or wilting quickly.
TemperatureDaffodils like 'February Silver' prefer moderate temperatures and can survive winter cold, making them suitable for growing in areas with winter lows down to 5°F. Ideally, they flourish in temperatures ranging between 50°F and 70°F during the growing season. They need a period of cold winter dormancy, typically at temperatures between 35°F and 45°F, to trigger spring blooming.
PruningDaffodil 'February Silver' does not require extensive pruning, but deadheading, which involves removing spent flowers after blooming, can help direct energy back into bulb growth. Do not cut down the foliage until it has yellowed and withered, typically six weeks after flowering, as the leaves are recharging the bulb for next year's bloom. Pruning is usually performed post-flowering in late spring or early summer.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDaffodil 'February Silver' prefers well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A mixture of potting soil, sand, and compost is ideal for proper drainage and nutrient content.
RepottingDaffodils like 'February Silver' generally do not need frequent repotting and can be done every 3-5 years, or when they become overcrowded.
Humidity & MistingDaffodil 'February Silver' tolerates average household humidity levels, but does not require high humidity to thrive.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and keep in cool conditions.
Outdoor
Plant in well-draining soil in partial to full sun.
Life cycleDaffodil 'February Silver' starts its life cycle as a dormant bulb which begins to sprout roots and shoots as the soil temperatures cool in the fall or early winter. The plant emerges early in the spring, with slender, green leaves and a flower stalk that produces a characteristic white bloom with a pale lemon trumpet. After flowering, the plant undergoes photosynthesis and stores energy in the bulb for the next season. The foliage eventually yellows and dies back as the plant enters dormancy during the hotter summer months. During this dormant period, the bulb divides and can be lifted and separated if desired for propagation. Finally, as temperatures drop again, the cycle repeats itself with the bulb re-sprouting for the upcoming growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Late summer to early autumn
Narcissus 'February Silver', commonly known as daffodil, is typically propagated through division of bulbs. This is the most popular method for multiplying these plants. The best time for dividing daffodil bulbs is after the foliage has died down, usually in late spring to early summer. Once you dig up the bulbs, gently separate them by hand, making sure that each division has at least one growing point. Replant the divisions immediately at a depth about three times the height of the bulb, which is roughly 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters), to ensure proper root development before the cold season. Water the newly planted bulbs well to help establish them. This straightforward technique allows gardeners to expand their daffodil displays or share bulbs with others while ensuring the health and vigor of the plants.
