Daffodil Narcissus 'Feeling Lucky' (2)
ABOUT
Narcissus 'Feeling Lucky' is most commonly known as a daffodil. This plant is characterized by its striking flowers that have a distinctive appearance. The blooms typically feature a central trumpet-shaped corona surrounded by a ring of six petal-like tepals, which together form a charming, star-like structure. While the exact coloring can vary, daffodils often display bright, cheerful colors such as yellow, white, or a combination of the two, with the trumpet sometimes presenting in a contrasting hue. The leaves of the daffodil 'Feeling Lucky' are slender and long, emanating from the base of the stem and providing a lush green backdrop that emphasizes the vibrancy of the flowers. These leaves are typically glossy with a slightly arching form, which adds to the overall grace of the plant. The flowers stand proudly atop sturdy, upright stems that rise from the foliage, each stem typically bearing a single flower. As a member of the daffodil family, 'Feeling Lucky' shares the familiar features that make this group of plants a favorite in spring gardens. The charming appearance of its blooms, often associated with the renewal and vitality of spring, makes it a prized addition to any setting where a touch of bright and uplifting color is desired.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae
Synonyms
Daffodil, Narcissus, Jonquil
Common names
Narcissus 'Feeling Lucky'
ToxicityTo humans
Daffodils, including the variety 'Feeling Lucky', contain toxic alkaloids such as lycorine and others that can cause poisoning if ingested. Symptoms of daffodil poisoning include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and in severe cases, cardiac arrhythmias, seizures, or a significant drop in blood pressure. The bulb is particularly dangerous if consumed as it contains the highest concentration of these toxic compounds. Handling the bulb can also cause dermatitis in some individuals.
To pets
Daffodils are toxic to both cats and dogs. Ingesting any part of the plant, particularly the bulbs, can cause symptoms such as vomiting, salivation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and even cardiac arrhythmias or respiratory depression in severe cases. The plant contains toxic alkaloids such as lycorine that can lead to these symptoms. Immediate veterinary care is recommended if a pet ingests any part of a daffodil plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Narcissus 'Feeling Lucky', commonly known as daffodil, has vibrant yellow blossoms that can enhance the visual appeal of any garden.
- Easy Maintenance: Daffodils are generally low-maintenance, making them suitable for both novice and experienced gardeners.
- Spring Bloom: They are one of the earliest flowers to bloom in spring, indicating the end of the winter season and adding early color to gardens.
- Perennial Growth: As a perennial, daffodils regrow every year, offering a long-term addition to the garden without the need for replanting annually.
- Naturalizing: Daffodils have the ability to naturalize, or spread and increase in number each year, which makes them cost-effective and sustainable over time.
- Pest Resistant: They are known to be resistant to many pests, including deer and rodents, due to their toxic alkaloids that deter these animals from eating them.
- Drought Tolerance: Daffodils can tolerate periods of dry conditions once established, which makes them suitable for a variety of climates and reduces the need for regular watering.
- Symbolism: Daffodils have cultural significance and are often associated with rebirth, new beginnings, and unrequited love, thus can be used for their symbolic meanings in gardens and as gifts.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Narcissus, commonly known as 'Feeling Lucky' daffodil, can be used in perfumery for its sweet and fresh floral scent which adds a unique note to fragrance compositions.
- This plant's bulbs can be utilized in a technique called "forcing" to encourage early indoor blooms for winter floral arrangements.
- The sturdy stems of the daffodil can be woven into decorative wreaths or garlands for springtime celebrations and decorations.
- Daffodil blooms can be pressed and used in crafting, such as in making bookmarks, personalized greeting cards, or in scrapbooking projects.
- The bright yellow flowers can be used as a natural dye source for fabrics, giving them a soft, sunshine hue.
- Dried petals of the daffodil can be included in potpourri mixes to add color and a subtle fragrance to a room.
- The flowers can be utilized in photography to create a vibrant and seasonally appropriate backdrop or prop for spring-themed photo shoots.
- 'Feeling Lucky' daffodil petals can be crystallized with sugar and used as an edible decoration for cakes and desserts.
- The daffodil's distinctive shape and color make it a popular subject for botanical illustration and other plant-based art forms.
- During spring festivals, the daffodil can be used as a symbol for contests or games, whereby finding a 'Feeling Lucky' daffodil might be considered a sign of good fortune or used in a scavenger hunt.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe daffodil is associated with good fortune and wealth and can be used in Feng Shui by placing it in the wealth corner of the home or office (southeast) to enhance prosperity.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe daffodil is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Rebirth and New Beginnings: Narcissus, commonly known as daffodil, often blooms in the early spring, signaling the end of winter and the arrival of a new growth cycle.
- Hope: The bright, cheerful appearance of daffodils is a potent symbol of hope and optimism for the future.
- Prosperity: In some cultures, daffodils represent wealth and success. The 'Feeling Lucky' variety's name further emphasizes this association with good fortune.
- Unrequited Love: The Greek myth of Narcissus, after whom the flower is named, has led to the association of daffodils with unrequited love or self-love due to the character's self-obsession.
- Respect: Giving a daffodil is sometimes understood to convey deep respect for someone, recognizing their honesty and integrity.
- Inspiration: The bright, sunny daffodil can also symbolize creativity and inspiration, perhaps due to its association with spring and renewal.
WaterFor the daffodil, water thoroughly at planting and then once a week during active growth, providing about 1 inch of water each time. Cut back on watering once the foliage begins to die back after flowering, and during dormancy, keep the soil dry. It is important to avoid overwatering, as daffodils are prone to bulb rot in soggy soil. During spring growth and blooming, ensure they receive approximately 1 gallon of water per square foot per week, either from rainfall or supplemental watering.
LightDaffodils thrive in full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates. The ideal spot for a daffodil is somewhere it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Avoid placing them in deep shade, as this will limit their ability to flower effectively.
TemperatureDaffodils are best suited to temperatures between 50°F and 60°F, which encourage robust growth and flowering. They can survive brief periods of colder weather and are hardy down to about 20°F. They do not perform well in extremely hot conditions, so avoid planting in spots where temperatures exceed 80°F for extended periods.
PruningPruning daffodils is primarily for aesthetic reasons, removing spent flowers to maintain a tidy appearance. It's best to deadhead the flowers as they fade but leave the foliage intact until it turns yellow and withers, which is usually around 6 weeks after flowering. Pruning too early can affect the bulb's energy storage for next season's blooms.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDaffodil 'Feeling Lucky' thrives in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. The best soil mix combines loamy soil, peat, and perlite or sand to enhance drainage. Adding compost to the mix provides extra nutrients beneficial for healthy growth and flowering.
RepottingDaffodils like 'Feeling Lucky' generally do not require frequent repotting and can be left undisturbed for several years. They should be repotted or divided only when clumps become overcrowded, typically every 3 to 5 years to maintain vigor.
Humidity & MistingDaffodil 'Feeling Lucky' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does well in average ambient humidity found in outdoor garden settings. Indoor growing should also reflect moderate humidity without the need for special adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place 'Feeling Lucky' daffodils near a sunny window in cool temperatures.
Outdoor
Plant 'Feeling Lucky' daffodils in sun to partial shade in fall.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Narcissus 'Feeling Lucky', commonly known as daffodil, begins its life cycle as a bulb, which remains dormant underground during the summer. In the fall, the bulb begins to develop roots as temperatures cool and the days get shorter. Throughout the winter, the roots continue to grow, and in early spring, the plant breaks through the soil, growing leaves and a central stalk. The daffodil blooms in late winter to early spring, producing a single flower per stalk, occasionally more, depending on the variety, with the 'Feeling Lucky' showcasing its bright, cheerful flowers. After flowering, the plant enters a period of photosynthesis, where the leaves remain green and manufacture food that is stored in the bulb for the next growing season. Once the leaves die back, the plant returns to dormancy, and the cycle repeats the following year.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating the Narcissus 'Feeling Lucky', commonly known as daffodil, is by dividing the bulbs. This is ideally done in late summer to early fall, once the foliage has died back and the plant is dormant. The clumps of bulbs are carefully lifted from the ground using a spade, ensuring minimal damage to the bulbs. Soil is gently shaken or brushed off to reveal the offsets, which are smaller bulbs attached to the main one. These offsets can be gently twisted or pulled away and replanted immediately. Each offset should be planted at a depth approximately three times the height of the bulb, which typically means about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) deep, with the pointed end facing upwards, and spaced 3 to 6 inches (7.5 to 15 centimeters) apart in well-draining soil.
