Daffodil Narcissus 'Hambledon' (2)
ABOUT
Narcissus 'Hambledon' is a captivating plant most widely recognized by its common name, the daffodil. This variety features a distinctive appearance with its beautiful, cheerful flowers that signal the arrival of spring. Each blossom is characterized by its unique color combination and structure. The flowers of the 'Hambledon' daffodil possess a striking charm, with petals that display a lovely hue of yellow, meticulously arranged around a central cup. The central cup, also known as the corona, often displays a contrasting color, which can range from a deeper yellow to an orange or even apricot tone. This intriguing combination of the petal and cup colors adds depth to the flower's overall look and draws the attention of onlookers. The flora of this daffodil variety radiates a cheerful vibe, as the petals typically spread outward and slightly back from the corona, giving the impression of a trumpet or a starburst. This configuration not only adds to the aesthetic beauty of the plant but also highlights the central cup, making it one of the most noticeable features. The foliage of the Narcissus 'Hambledon' is complementary to its blossoms, providing a lush green background that enhances the visibility of the vibrant flowers. The leaves are slender and long, typically growing in a straightforward manner from the base of the plant. Their dark green color anchors the plant visually and serves to emphasize the bright colors of the daffodil blooms. Overall, the 'Hambledon' daffodil exudes a joyful and elegant aspect, with its spirited colors and classic flower shape making it a popular choice for gardeners who wish to create a lively and inviting springtime display.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae.
Synonyms
Daffodil, Jonquil.
Common names
Narcissus 'Hambledon'
ToxicityTo humans
Daffodil, including the variety Narcissus 'Hambledon', contains toxic alkaloids such as lycorine and others. If any part of a daffodil is ingested, it can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and sometimes even more severe symptoms such as tremors or irregular heart rhythms due to the ingestion of a significant amount. Contact with the sap can also lead to dermatitis in some individuals. Medical attention should be sought if daffodil ingestion is suspected.
To pets
Daffodil, including the variety Narcissus 'Hambledon', is poisonous to pets. Ingesting any part of the plant can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, salivation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, heart rhythm abnormalities, tremors, and even seizures if a large amount is consumed. The bulb is the most toxic part. Urgent veterinary care is recommended if a pet ingests any part of a daffodil.
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
3-8
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: The Narcissus 'Hambledon', commonly known as daffodil, is renowned for its bright yellow flowers, which can enhance the visual appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Easy to Grow: Daffodils are generally low-maintenance and can thrive in a variety of soil types, although they prefer well-drained soil.
- Spring Bloom: As a spring-blooming flower, daffodils offer an early splash of color after the winter months, often being among the first flowers to bloom.
- Perennial Growth: Daffodils are perennials, meaning they come back year after year, which offers a long-term investment in garden beauty.
- Attracts Pollinators: Daffodils can help attract bees and other pollinators to the garden, aiding in the pollination of other plants and contributing to biodiversity.
- Deer and Rodent Resistant: The Narcissus 'Hambledon' is not favored by deer and rodents, making it a good choice for gardens troubled by these animals.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Narcissus 'Hambledon' (commonly known as daffodils) can be used in pest repellent sachets; the bulbs contain compounds that are natural deterrents to some rodents.
- The crushed bulbs of daffodils can be applied to the soil to act as a natural fungicide, protecting garden plants from certain soil-borne diseases.
- Their bright and colorful flowers can be used in photographic art, serving as a vibrant subject matter for photographers interested in botanical subjects.
- Daffodil flowers can serve as a natural dye source for fabrics, offering a range of yellow hues depending on the mordant used.
- During 'Daffodil Day' cancer fundraisers, these flowers are symbolically sold or displayed to raise awareness and funds for cancer research, support, and prevention.
- Aquatic arrangements can be made using daffodil flowers, as they can float in water for temporary decorative purposes like in weddings or events.
- Some artists use the pressed flowers of daffodils in their crafts, such as homemade paper, bookmarks, or resin jewelry.
- Daffodil bulbs can be used in a 'forcing' project with children, to teach them about plant growth and development during the winter months.
- Decomposing daffodil matter, such as spent flowers and leaves, can be composted to enrich garden soil as they return nutrients back to the earth.
- In fiber arts, daffodil motifs may be knitted, embroidered, or woven into fabric designs to add a spring-inspired theme to handmade goods.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Narcissus is associated with good fortune in Chinese culture and is often used in Feng Shui to attract wealth, luck and prosperity, especially around the Chinese New Year. It is recommended to place the Narcissus in the wealth corner of the home or office, typically the southeast corner, to enhance financial success and invite positive energy.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Narcissus is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Renewal and New Beginnings: As one of the first flowers to bloom in the spring, narcissus, commonly known as daffodil, represents rebirth and a fresh start, making it a symbol of the coming of spring.
- Self-esteem: The name "narcissus" is derived from the Greek myth of Narcissus, who fell in love with his own reflection, hence the flower is often associated with self-love and vanity.
- Inspiration and Creativity: Due to its bright appearance and the arrival during the creative season of spring, the daffodil is also a symbol for inspiration and artistic creativity.
- Hope: The bright yellow hue of the traditional narcissus is reminiscent of sunshine and warmth, representing hope and encouragement to those who receive it.
- Prosperity: In some cultures, the daffodil is seen as a symbol of wealth and success, especially when it blooms in abundance.
- Forgiveness: In certain Eastern traditions, narcissus signifies forgiveness, possibly because of its humble, bowed head, suggesting an apology or a willingness to make amends.
- Respect: Handing someone a daffodil can be a sign of deep respect, recognizing their unique qualities, much like each individual bloom has its own distinct beauty.
WaterDaffodils, including the Narcissus 'Hambledon', require consistent moisture during their growing season. Water the plant generously once the foliage appears, typically with about 1 inch of water each week. Avoid overwatering, as daffodils do not do well with soggy soil, which can cause bulb rot. During the dormant phase, after the flowers have died back, reduce watering significantly. Depending on rainfall, you might only have to water every few weeks with just enough to prevent the soil from completely drying out, approximately half a gallon per square foot every two to three weeks.
LightDaffodils, such as the Narcissus 'Hambledon', thrive in areas with full sun to partial shade. A spot that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight is ideal. If grown indoors, a south-facing window that gets ample light is suitable, ensuring the plant has enough bright light to develop strong blooms.
TemperatureDaffodils like Narcissus 'Hambledon' prefer a temperature range between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. These flowers can tolerate minimum temperatures down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit, but prolonged exposure to temperatures below freezing can damage the bulbs. The ideal daytime temperature for growing daffodils is around 60 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth and flowering.
PruningPruning daffodils like Narcissus 'Hambledon' is mainly deadheading spent flowers to encourage robust bulbs and prevent seed production. Remove the faded flowers but leave the foliage in place until it dies back naturally, usually six to eight weeks after blooming. This allows the leaves to photosynthesize and replenish the bulb for the next year's growth. Prune right after flowering for best practice.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDaffodil 'Hambledon' thrives in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter. The ideal pH for this plant is between 6.0 and 7.0. A mix of two parts loam, one part peat, and one part perlite or sand is excellent for ensuring good drainage and fertility.
RepottingDaffodils, including the 'Hambledon' variety, do not need to be repotted frequently. They should be repotted every 3-5 years, or when clumps become overcrowded, typically after the blooming season.
Humidity & MistingDaffodil 'Hambledon' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does not have specific humidity requirements. Average room humidity is generally sufficient for this plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place 'Hambledon' in bright, indirect light, cooler temps indoors.
Outdoor
Plant bulbs in fall, full to partial sun, well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Narcissus 'Hambledon', commonly known as Daffodil 'Hambledon', begins with a period of dormancy where the bulb remains underground, typically during the summer. As cooler temperatures arrive in autumn, root growth is initiated. Following root development, the daffodil begins the vegetative growth phase in late winter to early spring, where leaves and stems emerge from the bulb. The reproductive stage follows, marked by the flowering of the plant in early to mid-spring, showcasing the characteristic trumpet-like blooms. Once flowering ends, the plant enters a period of senescence in late spring to early summer; the foliage yellows and dies back as the plant goes into dormancy, with energy reserves being stored in the bulb for the next cycle. The bulb divides and multiplies, potentially giving rise to new plants, which continues the cycle of growth in subsequent years.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
The most popular method of propagation for the Narcissus 'Hambledon', commonly known as the daffodil, is through division of its bulbs. This process is ideally undertaken in the fall after the foliage has died back. Gardeners dig up the clumps of daffodils carefully to avoid damaging the bulbs and gently separate them by hand. It's important to retain as many of the roots as possible while ensuring that each divided bulb has at least one growth point. These separated bulbs can then be immediately replanted in the ground at a depth three times the height of the bulb, typically around 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters). The bulbs should be spaced approximately 3 to 6 inches (7.5 to 15 centimeters) apart to ensure adequate room for growth. This simple and effective technique allows for the increase of daffodil plants in the garden and promotes healthy blooming in the following spring.
