Daffodil Narcissus 'Indian Maid' (7)
ABOUT
The Narcissus 'Indian Maid' features a striking floral display with notable coloration that differentiates it from other daffodils. The blooms of this plant have a unique allure, marked by a central cup or 'corona' that usually exhibits a strong, contrasting hue, often in warm shades of orange or red. Surrounding the cup are perianth segments, commonly referred to as petals, which may be a creamy white or pale yellow, providing a delicate background that makes the vivid corona stand out even more. Each flower typically has a symmetrical arrangement with the central cup flanked by the six petal-like segments, forming a harmonious bloom. The petals may possess a slight overlap at their bases, giving the flowers a plush, full appearance. The foliage of the Narcissus 'Indian Maid' consists of lengthy, narrow leaves. These leaves are a deep green in color, creating a fresh, verdant contrast to the richness of the flowers. The plant presents its blooms atop sturdy, upright stalks that emerge from the base, where they stand with an alluring grace inviting admiration. Overall, the Narcissus 'Indian Maid' is a plant that exudes a sense of vibrancy and charm through its colorful and highly decorative flowers, making it a beloved choice for gardens and floral displays during its blooming season.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae
Synonyms
Jonquil, Daffodil
Common names
Narcissus 'Indian Maid'
ToxicityTo humans
The Narcissus 'Indian Maid', commonly known as daffodil, is toxic to humans. The entire plant, but especially the bulb, contains alkaloids such as lycorine that can cause poisoning. Symptoms of daffodil poisoning may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to cardiac arrhythmias, hypotension, respiratory depression, and even death. Handling the bulbs can cause skin irritation in some individuals.
To pets
Daffodils are toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. The toxicity is due to the presence of alkaloids such as lycorine, predominantly found in the bulbs but also present in the leaves and flowers. Symptoms of poisoning in pets can include vomiting, salivation, diarrhea, convulsions, low blood pressure, tremors, and cardiac arrhythmias. In severe cases, ingestion can be fatal. It is important to keep pets away from daffodils to prevent accidental ingestion.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
1-1.5 feet (30-45 cm)
Spread
0.5-1 feet (15-30 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-8
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Narcissus 'Indian Maid' provides an essential source of nectar for bees and other pollinating insects during its blooming season.
- Easy to Grow: This variety of daffodil is known for being hardy and easy to cultivate, requiring minimal maintenance.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its striking bicolored flowers, Narcissus 'Indian Maid' adds beauty and color to gardens, enhancing the overall landscape.
- Perennial Growth: As a perennial plant, it returns each year, providing long-term value and decreasing the need for annual replanting.
- Naturalizing: The bulbs can multiply and spread over time, creating natural drifts of color with little intervention.
- Cut Flower Use: The flowers are suitable for cutting and creating indoor arrangements, bringing springtime beauty into the home.
- Deer Resistance: Narcissus plants are generally resistant to deer, which prevents them from being eaten by wildlife and helps maintain a beautiful garden.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Natural dye source: The petals of Narcissus 'Indian Maid', commonly known as Daffodil, can be used to produce a yellow-brown dye for fabrics.
- Perfumery: The distinct fragrance of Daffodils is sometimes used in the production of perfumes and scented oils.
- Garden pest repellent: Planting Daffodils among other plants can help repel certain pests, as they are toxic to many insects.
- Companion planting: Daffodils can be used in companion planting to deter rodents from the garden since many rodents avoid their toxic bulbs.
- Flower arrangements: Daffodils are popular in cut flower arrangements and can provide a splash of spring color indoors.
- Photography subject: The vibrant colors and interesting shapes of Daffodils make them a favorite subject for photographers, especially in springtime.
- Eco-friendly confetti: Dried Daffodil petals can be used as a natural and biodegradable option for confetti at celebrations.
- Creative crafts: Pressed Daffodil flowers can be used in a variety of crafts, like making bookmarks or decorating homemade greeting cards.
- Education and study: Daffodils can be used in botanical studies and educational projects about plant life cycles and reproduction.
- Symbolic gift: Because of their association with new beginnings and rebirth, Daffodils can be given as gifts to symbolize hope and encouragement.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Daffodil is not commonly used in traditional Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Daffodil is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Rebirth - The Narcissus, also known as the Daffodil, often blooms in early spring, symbolizing new beginnings and the return of life.
- Renewal - Its perennial nature highlights the cycle of growth and renewal.
- Vanity - In Greek mythology, Narcissus was known for his beauty and vanity, hence the flower also represents self-absorption and egotism.
- Prosperity - In some cultures, Daffodils symbolize prosperity and are considered harbingers of good fortune.
- Uncertainty - The flower can also denote uncertainty or unrequited love, stemming from the myth of Narcissus who fell in love with his own reflection.
- Inspiration - Its bright and cheerful appearance is often associated with creativity and inspiration.
- Hope - The Daffodil's resilience in the last days of winter is widely seen as a sign of hope and overcoming challenges.
WaterDaffodils, including Narcissus 'Indian Maid', generally require moderate watering during the growing season. You should water these bulbs deeply to encourage root growth, providing about one inch of water per week, which translates to approximately 0.623 gallons per square yard. During the fall and after they bloom in the spring, the amount of watering should be reduced as the bulbs enter a dormant period. It's important to ensure that the soil is well-drained to prevent bulb rot, so avoid overwatering. If you're growing daffodils in containers, water them whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
LightDaffodils like Narcissus 'Indian Maid' thrive in full sun to partial shade conditions. They perform best when receiving at least six hours of direct sunlight daily, so placing them in a spot that gets morning sun and dappled afternoon shade would be ideal. However, they are adaptable and can also flourish in areas with more shade, although too much shade can reduce flowering.
TemperatureDaffodils such as Narcissus 'Indian Maid' are hardy and can withstand winter temperatures, withstanding brief periods as low as 15 degrees Fahrenheit. They typically prefer the cooler spring temperatures, with an ideal growing range between 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Hot temperatures above 75 degrees Fahrenheit may hamper their growth and lead to early dying back of foliage.
PruningPruning daffodils like Narcissus 'Indian Maid' is not required for the health of the plant, but you may deadhead the flowers after they fade to maintain a neat appearance. Do not cut the foliage until it has yellowed and died back naturally, which is often several weeks after blooming; this allows the plant to gather energy for the next season. The best time for pruning is late spring or early summer, once the leaves have yellowed.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Daffodils, like Narcissus 'Indian Maid', should be well-draining and moderately fertile. A mixture containing general potting soil, some sand, and a bit of compost is ideal. The pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingDaffodils, such as Narcissus 'Indian Maid', typically do not require frequent repotting. They should be repotted every 2-3 years, or when the bulbs become overcrowded in their current container.
Humidity & MistingDaffodils like Narcissus 'Indian Maid' prefer average home humidity levels. They do not have specific humidity requirements, but they thrive in conditions that are not excessively dry or overly humid.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and keep soil lightly moist.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade with good drainage.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleThe Narcissus 'Indian Maid', commonly known as Daffodil 'Indian Maid', begins its life cycle as a bulb, which is dormant during the summer months. In the fall, as temperatures cool, roots begin to grow from the bulb. Throughout winter, the bulb remains dormant beneath the soil surface, storing energy for spring growth. With the arrival of spring, the daffodil 'Indian Maid' shoots emerge from the soil, and the plant grows leaves and a central flower stalk which culminates in the blooming of its characteristic orange-yellow flowers. After flowering, which typically occurs in early to mid-spring, the plant enters a period of photosynthesis to replenish its reserves and then the foliage gradually dies back. The bulb goes into dormancy again during the summer until the cycle restarts with the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The Narcissus 'Indian Maid', more commonly known as daffodil, is typically propagated by dividing its bulbs. The best time to carry out this process is after the foliage has died back, usually in late summer or early fall. To propagate, carefully lift the bulbs from the ground using a garden fork, taking care not to damage them. Gently separate the smaller bulbs, which are known as offsets, from the parent bulb. Replant these smaller bulbs immediately, placing them 6 inches (about 15 centimeters) deep and 4 to 6 inches (about 10 to 15 centimeters) apart, ensuring they have enough space to grow. Water them well after planting to encourage root development. This process can be repeated every few years to maintain the health and vigor of the daffodil clumps.
