Daffodil Narcissus 'Jackpot' (2)
ABOUT
Narcissus 'Jackpot' is an ornamental daffodil plant recognized for its striking flowers. The plant features blooms with a characteristic trumpet-shaped central corona surrounded by six petal-like tepals. These tepals are usually a vibrant yellow or golden yellow color, while the corona may exhibit a deeper orange or a contrasting color, creating a dramatic visual effect. The leaves of the daffodil are narrow and long, with a rich green hue that forms a backdrop to the bright flowers. Daffodils typically bloom in the early spring, bringing one of the first bursts of color to gardens after the winter period. Each stem usually supports a single flower, but some cultivars may have multiple blooms per stem. The overall appearance of Narcissus 'Jackpot' is one of cheerfulness and brightness, which makes it a popular choice for gardeners looking to add a splash of color to their landscape.
About this plant
- Names
Family
Amaryllidaceae
Synonyms
Daffodil, Jonquil, Narcissus
Common names
Narcissus 'Jackpot'
- Toxicity
To humans
The plant commonly known as daffodil is toxic if ingested. All parts of the daffodil contain alkaloids that can cause poisoning. When ingested by humans, symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to cardiac arrhythmias, low blood pressure, tremors, and even convulsions. Skin contact with the sap can cause dermatitis in sensitive individuals.
To pets
Daffodils are poisonous to pets as well. If pets ingest any part of the daffodil, they may exhibit symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and sometimes excessive salivation. In severe cases, daffodil ingestion can result in cardiac arrhythmias and respiratory depression. The bulb of the daffodil is the most toxic part and can lead to more serious consequences if ingested by pets.
- Characteristics
Life 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
- Ornamental Value: Narcissus 'Jackpot', commonly known as daffodil, adds visual appeal to any garden with its striking golden yellow blooms, creating an eye-catching display.
- Low Maintenance: Daffodils are known for being low maintenance. Once planted, they require little care and can thrive in various climates and soil types.
- Pest Resistance: Daffodils are naturally resistant to many pests, including deer and rodents, which can help protect surrounding plants in the garden.
- Long Bloom Time: With a relatively long flowering period in early to mid-spring, daffodils offer gardeners a prolonged display of color after the winter months.
- Easy to Propagate: They can be easily propagated by dividing bulbs after several years, allowing gardeners to spread their beauty throughout the garden or share with others.
- Symbolism: Daffodils are associated with rebirth and new beginnings, making them a meaningful addition to any garden or landscape.
- Perennial Growth: Being perennials, daffodils regenerate every year, which means they are a cost-effective choice for long-term gardening.
- Naturalizing: Daffodils have the ability to naturalize, spreading out across an area over time, which can help create a self-sustaining display of flowers.
- Non-Invasive: Unlike some plants that can take over a garden, daffodils are non-invasive and coexist well with other plant species.
- Seasonal Interest: The early spring blooming of daffodils provides interest in the garden at a time when many other plants are not yet in bloom.
- Medical Properties
This plant is not used for medical purposes.
- Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
- Other Uses
- Narcissus 'Jackpot' can be used in cut flower arrangements due to their vibrant colors and attractive blooms enhancing the aesthetic of any bouquet.
- The bulbs of Narcissus can be placed in 'bulb lasagnas' or layered bulb pots, offering staggered flowering times for extended garden interest.
- In fabric dyeing, Narcissus flowers can sometimes be used to achieve varying shades of yellow or green, depending on the mordant used.
- Narcissus bulbs are sometimes used in the production of natural rodent repellents, as their scent and toxicity can deter mice and voles.
- Gardeners use Narcissus as companion plants to protect vulnerable vegetables from pests, taking advantage of its deterrent properties.
- Extracts from the flower can be used in perfumery, particularly for crafting unique, floral scented essential oils.
- Narcissus plants can play a role in biodynamic farming, where they are utilized in various preparations to enhance soil health and vitality.
- The flowers can be crystallized and used as edible decorations on cakes and desserts, following proper preparation to remove any toxic parts.
- In arts and crafts, dried Narcissus flowers are incorporated into potpourris and sachets for a natural, fragrant additive to drawers and closets.
- Narcissus can be used as a natural dye indicator in science experiments due to the pigments within the petals, helping visualize pH changes.
Interesting Facts
- Feng Shui
The Narcissus is not used in Feng Shui practice.
- Zodiac Sign Compitability
The Narcissus is not used in astrology practice.
- Plant Symbolism
- Rebirth and New Beginnings: The Narcissus 'Jackpot', commonly known as Daffodil, often blooms in early spring, symbolizing the end of winter and the start of a new growth cycle, as well as the idea of renewal and the coming of new opportunities.
- Creativity: The vibrant and distinct appearance of the Daffodil can represent creativity due to its bright colors and unique shape, making it a symbol of artistic inspiration.
- Inspiration and Inner Reflection: Echoing the Greek myth of Narcissus, the Daffodil sometimes symbolizes self-reflection and the importance of considering our inner thoughts and feelings.
- Prosperity: With 'Jackpot' in its name, this particular variety of Daffodil might also be associated with wealth and good fortune, as the term 'jackpot' typically refers to a large cash prize or windfall.
- Vanity: Again, relating back to the myth of Narcissus, who was obsessed with his own reflection, the Daffodil can represent vanity and excessive self-love.
- Hope: The Daffodil is a symbol of hope, often associated with charitable causes, particularly cancer charities. Its bright bloom serves as a beacon of optimism and resilience.
- Water
The Daffodil 'Jackpot' should be watered thoroughly during its active growing season in the spring, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Typically, watering once a week with about 1 inch of water is adequate, depending on rainfall and soil drainage. To avoid fungal diseases, water at the base of the plant rather than overhead. During the dormant period after flowering, reduce watering significantly as the bulb is at rest. Overwatering at this stage can cause bulb rot.
- Light
Daffodils 'Jackpot' thrive in full sunlight to partial shade. The best spot for this plant would be an area where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight a day. However, in regions with very hot midday sun, some light afternoon shade will help protect the flowers from withering.
- Temperature
Daffodils 'Jackpot' prefer a temperate climate and can survive in temperatures ranging from approximately 10°F to 90°F. However, for robust growth and blooms, keep them in a range between 50°F and 70°F. Protect the bulbs from extreme cold by mulching in the fall.
- Pruning
Prune Daffodil 'Jackpot' by deadheading spent flowers to promote bulb strength, but leave foliage intact until it yellows and dies back naturally. This usually occurs about six weeks after blooming. Pruning is not required for the leaves; allow them to naturally wither.
- Cleaning
As needed
- Soil
Daffodil 'Jackpot' requires well-draining soil with a mix of loam, sand, and peat for optimal growth. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging between 6.0 and 7.0.
- Repotting
Daffodils, including the 'Jackpot' variety, are often grown from bulbs and do not require frequent repotting. Repot them every 2 to 3 years or when the bulbs become overcrowded.
- Humidity & Misting
Daffodils like 'Jackpot' prefer average to low humidity levels. They can thrive in the humidity found naturally in outdoor environments without any special requirements.
- Suitable locations
Indoor
Place in bright, indirect light with cool temperatures.
Outdoor
Plant bulbs in autumn, full to partial sun, well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
- Life cycle
The Narcissus 'Jackpot', commonly known as the Daffodil 'Jackpot', begins its life as a bulb, which is a dormant stage that survives winter. As the temperatures warm in spring, the bulb activates, sending up shoots and leaves through the soil. Shortly after, the characteristic flowers with a trumpet-like corona surrounded by a ring of petals emerge, providing vibrant yellow blossoms. Once flowering is complete, the plant enters a period of photosynthesis, where the leaves gather sunlight and produce energy to replenish the bulb for the next season. As the foliage dies back, the Daffodil 'Jackpot' reenters dormancy, with the bulb resting underground during the colder months. This cycle repeats yearly, with the plant potentially dividing to form new bulbs that can be separated and planted to propagate new plants.
- Propogation
Propogation time
Spring to Summer
The most popular method of propagation for the Narcissus 'Jackpot', commonly known as Daffodil 'Jackpot', is through division of the bulbs. This is usually done when the plants are dormant, typically in late summer to early fall. To propagate, carefully lift the mature clump of bulbs from the ground and gently separate them into individual bulbs. Each bulb should have some roots attached. Replant the bulbs immediately at a depth of about 6 inches (15.24 centimeters), spacing them approximately 6 inches apart to ensure adequate room for growth. This method allows for the healthy spread of the plant and encourages the development of new flowering plants that will bloom in the following spring.