Ice Baby Daffodil Narcissus 'Ice Baby' (PBR) (1)
ABOUT
Narcissus 'Ice Baby' is a cultivated variety known for its distinct appearance, which makes it a popular choice for gardeners and flower enthusiasts. The plant bears beautiful flowers, characterized by their crisp, clean white color. Each flower showcases an elegant trumpet shape, which is surrounded by a ring of petal-like structures that are often referred to as the perianth segments. These segments are broad, overlapping, and retain the same pure white hue as the central trumpet, providing a harmonious and sophisticated look. The central trumpet, also known as the corona, has a somewhat ruffled or frilled edge, which adds to the detailed beauty of the flower. The contrast between the smooth, flat perianth segments and the textured corona creates visual interest and depth. The plant has a fresh, spring-like appearance, with the white flowers standing out in striking contrast to the rich, green, strap-shaped leaves that emerge from the base. These leaves provide a lush backdrop to the delicate blooms. The combination of the green foliage with the white flowers exudes a sense of purity and simplicity. Narcissus 'Ice Baby' blooms in the springtime, often signaling the end of winter and the beginning of a new growing season. Its appearance is closely associated with the symbols of rebirth and new beginnings, which is why it's frequently found in spring gardens and festivities. The flowers are usually borne singly or in small clusters, allowing each individual bloom enough space to be fully appreciated for its ornamental value. Overall, the appearance of Narcissus 'Ice Baby' is graceful, fresh, and pure, adding a touch of serene beauty to any setting in which it is planted.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae
Synonyms
Ice Baby Daffodil, Ice Baby Narcissus
Common names
Narcissus 'Ice Baby' (PBR).
ToxicityTo humans
Daffodil, specifically the Narcissus 'Ice Baby', is toxic to humans. It contains a toxic alkaloid called lycorine, and other compounds that can cause poisoning. Ingesting any part of the plant may lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and in severe cases, can cause convulsions, low blood pressure, tremors, and cardiac arrhythmias. Contact with the sap can cause skin irritation in some individuals. It is advised to seek medical attention if any part of the plant is ingested or if the sap causes a skin reaction.
To pets
Daffodil, including the variety Narcissus 'Ice Baby', is toxic to pets, such as cats and dogs. The ingestion of any part of the plant, especially the bulbs, can cause symptoms like vomiting, salivation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and sometimes more severe symptoms such as heart rhythm abnormalities, low blood pressure, tremors, and seizures. Ingestion of daffodil parts can be particularly dangerous to pets and should be treated as an emergency, requiring immediate veterinary attention.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1 feet 4 inches (40 cm)
Spread
0 feet 6 inches (15 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Narcissus 'Ice Baby' is known for its striking white flowers that can add beauty and visual interest to gardens and landscapes.
- Easy to Grow: This variety is considered low-maintenance, requiring minimal care to thrive, making it a good choice for novice gardeners.
- Spring Blooming: As a spring-blooming bulb, it brings early color to the garden after winter, often being one of the first plants to flower.
- Perennial Growth: Being a perennial, it returns year after year, providing a long-term addition to the garden without the need for replanting annually.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers can attract bees and other pollinators to the garden, which is beneficial for pollination of plants and overall garden health.
- Adaptable to Containers: Narcissus 'Ice Baby' can be easily grown in pots or containers, which is ideal for those with limited garden space or for adding accents to patios and balconies.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Narcissus 'Ice Baby' can be used in perfumery, as its flowers have a pleasant fragrance which can be extracted and incorporated into perfumes and scented products.
- The bulbs of the Narcissus plant can be used as a natural pest repellent in gardens due to certain alkaloids they contain, which can deter moles and voles.
- Dried Narcissus petals can be included in potpourri mixes, providing a decorative element and a subtle fragrance to rooms and closets.
- Artists may use the vivid colors of the delicate Narcissus 'Ice Baby' flowers as inspiration for paintings, illustrations, and textile patterns.
- Narcissus flowers can be crystallized with egg whites and sugar to create edible decorations for cakes and desserts.
- Florists often use these blooms in bridal bouquets and wedding arrangements, symbolizing new beginnings and true love.
- These flowers are sometimes used in photography and film to signify the arrival of spring or to represent themes of vanity and self-reflection.
- Narcissus 'Ice Baby' can be floated in bowls of water for decorative centerpieces at events or in homes, creating an elegant and simple display.
- In the language of flowers, Narcissus 'Ice Baby' can be used to send a message of respect and admiration without romantic implications.
- During the Lunar New Year, Narcissus is often displayed in homes as it is believed to bring good fortune and prosperity for the coming year.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Narcissus is used in Feng Shui to attract good fortune and prosperity, especially during the Chinese New Year. It is believed to help energy flow (Chi) and can be placed in the wealth area of a home or office to enhance abundance.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Narcissus is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Rebirth and New Beginnings: In many cultures, daffodils, including the Narcissus 'Ice Baby', are symbols of spring and therefore represent rebirth and the coming of new beginnings.
- Unrequited Love: The name "Narcissus" is tied to the Greek myth of a young man who fell in love with his own reflection. Thus, it can symbolize self-love and often, unrequited love.
- Prosperity: Daffodils blooming are often associated with future prosperity and are considered to bring good fortune, particularly when they bloom during the Chinese New Year.
- Vanity or Egotism: Due to its association with the Greek myth, Narcissus can also symbolize vanity or excessive self-involvement.
WaterDaffodils, including the Narcissus 'Ice Baby', should be watered thoroughly at planting time and again whenever the soil is dry to the touch during their growth period. In general, provide about 1 inch of water per week, whether from rainfall or irrigation. When the plants are in bloom, be especially vigilant about watering, but always avoid waterlogging the soil. After flowering, reduce watering as the foliage begins to die back, usually in late spring or early summer. Ensure that your watering schedule accounts for any additional rainfall and adjust accordingly to prevent overwatering.
LightDaffodils, like the Narcissus 'Ice Baby', perform best in full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade. They should be planted in a spot that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Adequate sunlight is essential for their growth and for the development of their vibrant blooms during the spring season.
TemperatureDaffodils including Narcissus 'Ice Baby', thrive in a wide range of temperatures but prefer a temperate climate. They can survive winter cold, tolerating temperatures down to about 15°F. The ideal growing temperature range for daffodils is between 50°F and 70°F during their growth and blooming period. They require a period of cold dormancy, which means that in warmer climates, bulbs sometimes require pre-chilling to prompt flowering.
PruningFor daffodils like the Narcissus 'Ice Baby', pruning is limited to deadheading flowers once they've faded to prevent seed formation which can drain energy from the bulb. Leave the foliage intact until it has yellowed and died back naturally, which typically occurs several weeks after flowering. This allows the plant to store energy for the next season's growth. Cutting back the foliage too early can harm the health of the bulb.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDaffodil 'Ice Baby' thrives in well-drained soil with added organic matter like compost. The ideal soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.0.
RepottingDaffodils like 'Ice Baby' typically do not require frequent repotting and can be left undisturbed for several years unless they become overcrowded.
Humidity & MistingDaffodil 'Ice Baby' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does not have specific humidity requirements.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow in bright, indirect light with cool temperatures.
Outdoor
Plant in well-drained soil, full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleNarcissus 'Ice Baby', commonly known as 'Ice Baby' Daffodil, begins its life cycle as a dormant bulb, surviving underground during winter's cold. In early spring, the bulb breaks dormancy, and sprouts emerge, signaling the start of the growth stage, with leaves and a central flower stalk growing rapidly. The plant then enters the flowering phase, where the distinctive white petals and trumpet-shaped corona of the 'Ice Baby' bloom fully develop and display. Following pollination, which can occur through wind or insect activity, the plant may set seed if conditions permit, though many cultivated varieties are propagated mainly through bulb division. As the flowering ends, the plant enters a senescence phase, with leaves and stalks dying back and energy being stored back in the bulb. Finally, the bulb returns to dormancy, lying in wait to repeat the cycle the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
For Narcissus 'Ice Baby', also commonly known as the Ice Baby daffodil, the most popular method of propagation is by dividing the bulbs. This is best done when the foliage has died back, typically in late summer to early fall. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the clump of bulbs and gently separate them into individual bulbs. Make sure that each bulb has a portion of the base and some roots attached. Replant the bulbs at a depth of about 6 inches (15.24 centimeters), allowing about 4 to 6 inches (10.16 to 15.24 centimeters) between each bulb. Water the newly planted bulbs well to help establish them. This method of division helps the Ice Baby daffodil to maintain its vigor and ensures flowering in subsequent seasons.
