Daffodil Narcissus 'King Alfred' (1)
ABOUT
The Narcissus 'King Alfred', commonly known as the 'King Alfred' daffodil, is a striking spring-flowering bulb recognized for its classic daffodil form. It bears large, cheerful, trumpet-shaped blooms with a bright golden-yellow hue that captures the essence of spring. Each flower consists of a central trumpet or corona, encircled by a star-shaped whorl of petals, known as the perianth segments. The blooms typically feature a single flower per stem, with the trumpet being slightly ruffled and the petals slightly back-swept, giving an elegant and poised appearance. The foliage of the 'King Alfred' daffodil is slender, long, and strap-shaped with a deep green color that complements the brightness of the flowers. The leaves emerge from the base of the stem and can be quite numerous, creating a lush background for the sunny blooms above them. The juxtaposition of the vibrant blooms against the green foliage makes this daffodil variety a standout in any garden setting.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae
Synonyms
King Alfred Daffodil, Trumpet Daffodil, King Alfred Narcissus
Common names
Narcissus 'King Alfred'
ToxicityTo humans
Daffodil is considered toxic if ingested. Ingesting any part of the daffodil can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and sometimes diarrhea. Contact with the sap may also cause dermatitis in some individuals. Eating large amounts can lead to more severe issues such as cardiac arrhythmias, low blood pressure, tremors, convulsions, and, in extreme cases, can be fatal.
To pets
Daffodil is also toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. Ingestion can result in symptoms similar to those in humans, such as vomiting, salivation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, heart rhythm abnormalities, convulsions, and serious cardiac problems. Large ingestions can lead to severe poisoning and can be fatal if not treated promptly.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1-1.5 feet (30-45 cm)
Spread
0.5 feet (15 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Western Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: The Daffodil 'King Alfred' is highly valued for its vibrant yellow flowers that are aesthetically pleasing and commonly used in landscaping and garden design.
- Spring Herald: This Daffodil variety is an early bloomer, often announcing the arrival of spring, providing gardeners with one of the first vibrant blooms of the season.
- Ease of Growth: Daffodils are known for their ease of cultivation, requiring minimal maintenance which makes them suitable for both novice and experienced gardeners.
- Pest Resistance: They are relatively resistant to most common pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments and making them an eco-friendly choice.
- Hardiness: Daffodils are hardy plants that can withstand cold temperatures, making them suitable for a variety of climates and extending their growing range.
- Perennial Growth: Being perennials, they come back year after year, providing long-term value and reducing the need for annual replanting.
- Naturalizing: They have the ability to reproduce and spread naturally over time, creating larger displays of color with each passing year.
- Cut Flowers: The blooms are long-lasting in vases, making them perfect for creating bouquets and floral arrangements.
- Symbolism: Daffodils are often associated with rebirth and new beginnings, imbuing gardens with deeper meaning and offering inspiration to those who view them.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Narcissus 'King Alfred' can be used as a natural pest repellent due to its strong scent which is unappealing to certain rodents and deer.
- The daffodil bulbs can be used in a technique called 'forcing' to induce blooming indoors out of season for decorative purposes.
- They can act as a colorful mulch alternative when the petals fall; although temporary, they add nutrients to the soil as they decompose.
- Extract from the flowers can be used in perfume making, to contribute a unique scent associated with the onset of spring.
- Daffodil blooms are used to symbolize hope and are included in events and fundraisers dedicated to cancer awareness, particularly in the UK.
- Their bright yellow flowers can be used to make a natural dye for fabrics, giving them a soft yellow color.
- Daffodil flowers are sometimes used in artistic inspiration for painters and photographers seeking springtime themes.
- Daffodil plants can act as companion plants to deter garden pests from more susceptible vegetable crops.
- Crushed daffodil stems can create an organic sticky substance that might be used as an adhesive in emergency situations.
- Dried daffodil petals can be incorporated into potpourri mixes to add a spring-like fragrance to the home.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Daffodil is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Daffodil is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Rebirth and New Beginnings: The Narcissus 'King Alfred', commonly known as Daffodil, is one of the first flowers to bloom in spring, symbolizing the end of winter and the arrival of new growth and beginnings.
- Unrequited Love: According to Greek mythology, the flower is associated with the story of Narcissus, a youth who fell in love with his own reflection. The daffodil can symbolize unrequited love due to Narcissus's tragic fate.
- Self-Esteem and Vanity: The link to the narcissistic character of its namesake conveys a message of self-absorption and vanity, making it a symbol of both self-love and self-obsession.
- Heralding Spring: As an early spring bloomer, the daffodil is often synonymous with the onset of spring, and thus is a symbol of the anticipation and joy that comes with the change of season.
- Prosperity and Wealth: In some cultures, the daffodil is seen as a symbol of wealth and success; its golden hue reminiscent of gold coins, representing fortune and prosperity.
- Respect and Regard: Presenting someone with daffodils is said to communicate a deep respect and high regard for the recipient.
- Eternal Life: Because it blooms every spring almost without fail, the daffodil can also be a symbol of resilience and eternal life, embodying a cycle that never ends.
WaterDaffodils, including the King Alfred variety, need moderate watering. During the growing season, especially in the absence of rain, water weekly with about 1 inch of water, which is equivalent to about 0.623 gallons per square foot. It's crucial to maintain evenly moist soil without overwatering to prevent bulb rot. As they enter dormancy after flowering, reduce watering to allow the soil to dry out as the foliage begins to die back naturally.
LightDaffodils like King Alfred require full to partial sunlight to thrive. The best spot for them is a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. They can tolerate some light shade, especially in the afternoon, but flowering may be compromised in too much shade.
TemperatureDaffodils, including King Alfred, are hardy and can survive winter temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit. They prefer a climate where they can chill over the winter, typically between 35 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit, as the cold period is necessary for them to bloom. The ideal temperature for active growth is around 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
PruningDaffodils such as King Alfred do not require traditional pruning. Deadheading the flowers after they bloom is beneficial to prevent seed production, allowing the plant to put more energy into the bulb for next season's growth. Cut the spent flowers at the base of the stem, but leave the foliage intact until it has yellowed and died back completely, usually by early to mid-summer.
CleaningNot needed
SoilDaffodil 'King Alfred' thrives in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. For best results, mix in compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the soil and ensure proper nutrition for robust growth.
RepottingDaffodils, including 'King Alfred', typically do not require frequent repotting and can be left undisturbed for several years as they prefer to be slightly root-bound. Repotting every 3 to 5 years is sufficient unless the bulbs become overcrowded.
Humidity & Misting'King Alfred' Daffodil is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does not require special humidity conditions. They perform well in the average outdoor humidity present in their growing zones.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place 'King Alfred' Daffodil in bright indirect light and cool temperatures.
Outdoor
Plant 'King Alfred' Daffodil in full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of the Daffodil 'King Alfred' starts with a period of dormancy, where the bulb remains underground to survive adverse conditions. As spring approaches and temperatures rise, the bulb awakens, sending up foliage and a central flower stalk. The distinct trumpet-shaped flower emerges, displaying its iconic yellow hue, and is typically pollinated by insects. After flowering, the foliage undergoes photosynthesis to gather energy, which is stored back in the bulb for the next growth cycle. This period of growth winds down as the leaves yellow and wither, heralding the return to dormancy. Every year, the bulb may produce offsets, leading to the gradual development of a clump of flowers over time.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
The most popular method of propagation for the daffodil 'King Alfred' is through dividing and replanting its bulbs. This is typically done when the plants are dormant, from late summer to early autumn. Gardeners will gently dig up the clumps of bulbs and separate any offsets from the parent bulbs. These offsets, or daughter bulbs, are smaller replicas of the parent that, once detached, can be planted in well-drained soil with good sunlight. They should be planted at a depth of about 6 inches (15 centimeters) and spaced 3 to 6 inches (7.5 to 15 centimeters) apart to ensure adequate room for growth. This simple division method encourages the proliferation of the daffodil 'King Alfred' without affecting the health of the original plant.
