Daffodil Narcissus 'Kaydee' (6)
ABOUT
Narcissus 'Kaydee' is a daffodil variety that presents itself with a distinctive and graceful appearance. The daffodil typically has a striking flower with a central trumpet-shaped corona surrounded by a ring of six petal-like tepals. The 'Kaydee' variety flaunts an exquisite bloom that usually appears at the onset of spring. The corona of this particular daffodil may exhibit a rich, vibrant color that can vary from a deep yellow to a softer shade, sometimes with a contrasting rim at the mouth of the trumpet. The petals that encircle the trumpet are often a lighter shade compared to the corona, providing a pleasing contrast that highlights the unique structure of the flower. The tepals might spread elegantly around the central trumpet, sometimes slightly overlapping, adding to the visual charm of the bloom. The foliage of Narcissus 'Kaydee' consists of slender, green leaves that emerge from the base of the plant. These leaves are typically long and narrow, providing a soft backdrop that accentuates the beauty of the vibrant flowers. The overall aesthetic appeal of the daffodil 'Kaydee' is enhanced by its tendency to grow in attractive clumps, with the blooms held aloft on sturdy stems that emanate from the green tufts of strap-like leaves. As a herald of the spring season, the 'Kaydee' daffodil brings a cheerful display of color to gardens, indicating the end of the cold months and the start of a time of renewal and growth.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae.
Synonyms
Daffodil, Jonquil.
Common names
Narcissus 'Kaydee'
ToxicityTo humans
The Narcissus 'Kaydee', commonly referred to as the daffodil, is considered poisonous to humans if ingested. The plant contains toxic alkaloids such as lycorine and others that can cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to more serious effects such as cardiac arrhythmias, convulsions, and in very rare cases, can even be fatal if a significant amount is consumed. Therefore, caution should be taken to ensure that no parts of the plant are ingested by humans.
To pets
The Narcissus 'Kaydee' also known to pets as the daffodil, is toxic if ingested. It contains compounds such as lycorine that can cause vomiting, salivation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, heart rhythm abnormalities, and even respiratory depression in severe cases. Large ingestions can lead to serious poisoning and may be fatal, so it is important to prevent pets from accessing and ingesting any part of the daffodil plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1-1.5 feet (30-45 cm)
Spread
0.5-1 feet (15-30 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Daffodil 'Kaydee' adds vibrant color and beauty to gardens and landscapes with its striking blooms.
- Ease of Growth: It is a hardy plant that is relatively easy to grow in a variety of soil conditions.
- Pest Resistant: These daffodils are less prone to problems with pests, reducing the need for chemical interventions.
- Tolerates Cold: Daffodil 'Kaydee' can tolerate and bloom after cold winters, making it suitable for cooler climates.
- Longevity: The bulbs can live for many years and naturalize, creating more plants over time for a more filled-out garden space.
- Spring Indicator: As an early bloomer, it signifies the end of winter and the arrival of spring.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Daffodil 'Kaydee' bulbs can be used in a natural dye process to create varying shades of yellow and brown on fabrics.
- Cut flowers of Daffodil 'Kaydee' can be used for floral arrangements to provide a sweet fragrance and a burst of spring color indoors.
- The plant can be used as a pest deterrent in gardens because certain rodents and deer may avoid the area due to the toxic properties of the bulbs.
- Daffodil 'Kaydee' can be used in companion planting to protect vegetables from pests, as they can help to mask the scent of nearby crops.
- Gardeners sometimes plant Daffodil 'Kaydee' as a seasonal indicator because they bloom early in spring, indicating the right time for planting other species.
- The blooms can be used in nature photography to provide a scenic and colorful backdrop or as the main focal point for spring-themed photos.
- Daffodil 'Kaydee' can be planted over a septic drain field where deep-rooted plants are not recommended, as their roots are not invasive.
- These daffodils can be used as a living mulch because their dense growth can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
- The spent flowers and leaves of Daffodil 'Kaydee' can be added to compost piles as a source of carbon once they've yellowed and wilted.
- Daffodil 'Kaydee' is sometimes used in educational settings to teach children about plant growth cycles and bulb planting techniques.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Narcissus is commonly associated with good fortune and wealth in Feng Shui. To use it effectively, place it in the southeast corner of your home or office to attract abundance and prosperity.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Narcissus is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Self-love: The Narcissus 'Kaydee', typically known as just Narcissus or daffodil, is named after the Greek myth of Narcissus who fell in love with his own reflection, symbolizing self-love or self-obsession.
- Renewal and New Beginnings: As one of the first flowers to bloom in spring, the Narcissus often signifies rebirth, fresh starts, and the coming of a new season.
- Vanity: Due to the myth of Narcissus, these flowers can also represent vanity and excessive self-admiration.
- Prosperity: In some cultures, the Narcissus is believed to bring good fortune and is often associated with wealth and success, especially when it blooms during the Chinese New Year.
- Inspiration: The bright and cheery nature of the Narcissus is commonly associated with creativity and the power to inspire new ideas and thought processes.
- Uncertainty: In certain contexts, the Narcissus may also suggest ambiguity or indecisiveness, as it can be seen both positively (beauty and renewal) and negatively (vanity and self-absorption).
WaterFor Daffodils, including the Narcissus 'Kaydee', they should be watered thoroughly at planting time and then given about an inch of water per week during the growing season. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. In periods of drought or extremely dry conditions, increase watering to twice per week, ensuring that the soil is moist to a depth of at least 5 inches. After flowering, you can reduce watering as the foliage begins to die back naturally.
LightDaffodils prefer full sunlight with at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. They can tolerate partial shade, but blooms may not be as prolific. The best spot for a Narcissus 'Kaydee' is in a well-drained area where it can receive ample morning sunlight and some afternoon shade, especially in hotter regions.
TemperatureDaffodils are hardy and can withstand winter temperatures down to 20°F before they start growing in spring. Once growth begins, they prefer a temperature range between 50°F and 70°F. The ideal temperature conditions for Narcissus 'Kaydee' when in growth would be on the cooler side of this range to prolong blooms.
PruningFor Daffodils, pruning is generally not necessary, but spent flower heads should be deadheaded after flowering to direct energy back into the bulb. Do not remove the foliage until it has turned yellow and died back naturally, which is typically several weeks after blooming. This is crucial for the plant to store energy for the next blooming season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFor Narcissus 'Kaydee', commonly known as Daffodil 'Kaydee', the best soil mix is well-draining and fertile, with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of loamy soil, compost or well-rotted manure, and sand or perlite to aid in drainage will create an optimal environment for the bulbs.
RepottingDaffodils, including Narcissus 'Kaydee', typically do not need to be repotted often. They can be left in the same spot for several years unless they become overcrowded. If necessary, repot or divide clumps after the foliage has died back, usually in late summer or fall.
Humidity & MistingDaffodil 'Kaydee' prefers outdoor conditions where the natural humidity is generally suitable. They do not require high humidity environments and can tolerate the humidity levels found in most temperate regions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Daffodil 'Kaydee' in bright, indirect light and cool temperatures indoors.
Outdoor
Plant Daffodil 'Kaydee' in full sun to partial shade in fall.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleDaffodil 'Kaydee' begins its life as a bulb, dormant underground through summer before sprouting in the fall. As temperatures cool, roots develop in the autumn and foliage starts to emerge, typically by late winter or early spring. Following foliage growth, buds develop and eventually bloom into the characteristic trumpet-shaped flowers, usually in early to mid-spring. After flowering, the daffodil 'Kaydee' goes through a period of photosynthesis and nutrient storage in the bulb to prepare for the next year's growth. Once the leaves yellow and die back, the plant enters dormancy, conserving energy in the bulb. This cycle repeats annually, with the bulbs potentially dividing to produce offsets that can be separated and planted to propagate new plants.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagation for the Narcissus 'Kaydee', commonly known as Daffodil, is through the division of bulbs. The ideal time for this process is after the foliage has died back and the plant enters dormancy, typically in late summer to autumn. To propagate, carefully dig up the bulbs and gently separate any offsets from the mother bulb. These offsets, also known as bulblets, should ideally be about the size of a large marble or around 1 inch in diameter (approximately 2.5 cm) to ensure successful growth. Once separated, the offsets can be replanted immediately at a depth approximately three times their height and spaced 3-6 inches apart (about 7.5-15 cm). This simple process helps to expand your collection of Daffodils and can lead to a more vibrant display in the following spring.
