Daffodil Narcissus 'Fortune' (2)
ABOUT
Narcissus 'Fortune' is an ornamental flowering plant that features a particularly striking look. Commonly known as a type of daffodil, it is a perennial that produces beautiful blooms which are a major point of attraction. Its flowers are typically a warm, golden yellow with a large, slightly ruffled cup that is a deeper orange in color. The petals surrounding the cup are usually broad and slightly swept back, giving the flower a distinctive trumpet-like appearance that daffodils are known for. The foliage of the Narcissus 'Fortune' consists of slender, dark green leaves that form an elegant backdrop to the bright blooms. These leaves are typically long and blade-like, emerging from the base of the plant. The contrast between the lush green foliage and the cheerful yellow and orange of the flowers makes it a pleasing addition to any setting where it is grown. The plant tends to bloom in early to mid-spring, providing a burst of color after the cold, dormant months. One of the appealing factors of the Narcissus 'Fortune' is its capacity to naturalize, meaning it can spread and create larger displays of color over time if the conditions are right, without much intervention from the gardener. Overall, the appearance of Narcissus 'Fortune' is one that brings a sense of joy and vibrancy to the surroundings, making it a popular choice among gardeners looking to add some springtime cheer to their gardens or landscapes.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae.
Synonyms
Daffodil, Jonquil, Narcissus.
Common names
Narcissus 'Fortune'
ToxicityTo humans
Daffodil toxicity to humans primarily comes from ingesting any part of the plant, which contains alkaloids such as lycorine. Symptoms of poisoning may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and in severe cases, it can lead to dehydration, tremors, convulsions, or even cardiac arrhythmias. Handling daffodil bulbs could also cause dermatitis in sensitive individuals.
To pets
Daffodils are toxic to pets, with all parts of the plant being poisonous due to the presence of alkaloids like lycorine. Symptoms of poisoning in pets after ingesting daffodils can include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, hypersalivation, and in severe cases, cardiac arrhythmias, convulsions, and a significant drop in blood pressure. The bulb is particularly toxic if consumed.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1 foot 4 inches (45 centimeters)
Spread
6 inches (15 centimeters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Decorative Appeal: The Narcissus 'Fortune', commonly known as Daffodil, has vibrant yellow blooms with a deep orange corona that add a splash of color to gardens and landscapes.
- Easy to Grow: Daffodils are low maintenance and can thrive in a variety of soil conditions, making them suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Spring Bloomer: As an early spring bloomer, Daffodil heralds the end of winter and the arrival of warmer weather, bringing cheer after the cold season.
- Naturalizing: Daffodils are excellent for naturalizing; they multiply and return year after year, spreading beauty across the planting area.
- Pest Resistant: Daffodils are resistant to deer, rabbits, and rodents, which makes them a great addition to gardens in areas with abundant wildlife.
- Cut Flowers: The sturdy stems and long vase life of Daffodils make them perfect for creating vibrant indoor flower arrangements.
- Garden Design Versatility: Daffodils can be planted in borders, beds, containers, and even woodlands, providing flexibility in garden design and landscaping.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography Prop: Narcissus 'Fortune', commonly known as daffodil, can be used as a vibrant prop in springtime photography, adding a splash of color and a touch of natural beauty.
- Eco-friendly Dye: The petals and bulbs of daffodils contain pigments that can be extracted to create a natural dye for textiles or crafts.
- Garden Pest Repellent: Planting daffodils around the garden can deter certain rodents and deer, as these creatures typically avoid the toxic bulbs of these plants.
- Companion Planting: Daffodils can be planted alongside vegetable gardens to help protect against unwanted pests without the use of chemicals.
- Creative Arrangements: Dried daffodil blooms can be included in potpourri mixes for a fragrant and decorative bowl filler.
- Symbolic Gift: Daffodils carry a meaning of new beginnings and rebirth, making them a thoughtful gift for occasions like new jobs or housewarmings.
- Event Decorations: Daffodil flowers are often used in spring events and weddings due to their bright and cheerful appearance.
- Culinary Garnish: Although daffodil plant parts are toxic if ingested, they can be used as an inedible garnish for culinary presentations as long as they don't come into contact with food.
- Papermaking Material: Fibers from daffodil stems and leaves can be incorporated into homemade paper for a unique texture and pattern.
- Momentos: Pressed daffodil flowers can be used in scrapbooking, card making, and other art projects as keepsakes that carry the essence of spring.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Narcissus is believed to attract good fortune and prosperity, so it is recommended to place it in the wealth area of a home or business, which is typically the southeast corner, to enhance the flow of chi and invite positive energy.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Narcissus is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Rebirth and New Beginnings: The Narcissus 'Fortune', commonly known as daffodil, is a symbol of spring and is often associated with renewal and the start of new things because it is one of the first flowers to bloom as the winter ends.
- Unrequited Love: Originating from the Greek myth of Narcissus who fell in love with his own reflection, the daffodil can symbolize self-love and the idea of being enamored with someone who does not return the affection.
- Prosperity: The name "Fortune" suggests abundance or wealth. Accordingly, daffodils can be associated with good luck, fortune, and prosperity.
- Vanity: As tied to the mythological Narcissus, daffodils sometimes symbolize self-absorption and vanity.
- Respect: In some cultures, giving a daffodil is a way to show respect to the recipient, acknowledging their fair treatment of others.
- Hope: The daffodil's emergence after the winter signifies overcoming challenges, thus representing hope and the overcoming of obstacles.
WaterDaffodil 'Fortune' requires consistent watering, especially during the growing season. Water thoroughly whenever the top inch of soil feels dry. Generally, this means watering once every week, but this can vary depending on climate and weather conditions. It is best to provide about one gallon of water per square foot of soil around the daffodil each month during active growth. Overwatering or allowing the bulbs to sit in waterlogged soil can lead to rot, so ensure good drainage.
LightDaffodils, including the 'Fortune' variety, thrive best in full sun to partial shade conditions. The ideal spot for them is where they can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. However, they can tolerate light afternoon shade, which can be beneficial in very hot climates.
TemperatureDaffodils such as 'Fortune' are hardy and can withstand cold, with a survival range down to about -20°F. They prefer the cooler temperatures of spring and can flower when temperatures are between 50°F and 65°F. Bulbs require a winter chill to bloom successfully, so they do well in areas that experience a cold winter.
PruningPruning Daffodil 'Fortune' is mainly about deadheading the spent flowers to maintain a tidy appearance and prevent seed formation, which can divert energy from the bulb. Cut the flower stalks back to the base after blooming, but leave the foliage intact until it turns yellow and dies back naturally. This usually occurs once per year, in the weeks following the bloom period.
CleaningNot needed
SoilDaffodil 'Fortune' thrives best in a well-draining soil mix with a slightly acidic to neutral pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. An ideal soil mixture for this daffodil would be one part loamy soil, one part peat or compost, and one part sharp sand to facilitate proper drainage.
RepottingDaffodils, including 'Fortune', generally do not need to be repotted often; they can be left undisturbed for several years. It is recommended to repot or divide them only if the clumps become overcrowded, usually every 3 to 5 years.
Humidity & MistingDaffodil 'Fortune' prefers average humidity conditions and does not require high humidity. It can thrive outdoors where humidity levels are typical of temperate climates.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light; keep in cool room.
Outdoor
Plant in well-draining soil; full sun to part shade.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Narcissus 'Fortune', commonly known as daffodil, begins with a bulb that lies dormant underground during the winter months. In early spring, growth resumes as temperatures rise and the bulb sends up shoots, followed by the development of a flower stalk and a blossom, which typically features orange-yellow petals and a darker yellow cup. After flowering, the plant undergoes a period of photosynthesis to replenish the bulb's energy reserves; during this time, leaves remain green and photosynthetically active. Once the leaves yellow and die back, which usually happens in late spring or early summer, the plant reenters dormancy. The bulb remains underground, surviving off the stored energy throughout the summer and fall until the following spring when the cycle restarts. Offsets or daughter bulbs may form alongside the main bulb, gradually forming a clump of daffodils over the years.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
Narcissus 'Fortune', commonly known as Daffodil 'Fortune', is most commonly propagated by dividing the bulbs, a process generally recommended in the fall when the plants have died back and are dormant. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the clump of bulbs after the foliage has died back and gently separate them by hand, making sure that each division has at least one growing point or bud. Each bulb should be replanted promptly, at a depth about three times the height of the bulb, which is typically around 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters), depending on the size of the bulb. The newly planted bulbs will then rest over the winter and emerge as new plants in the spring. This method is favored as it maintains the genetic integrity of the 'Fortune' variety and ensures a display consistent with the parent plants.
