Daffodil Narcissus 'Larkwhistle' (6)
ABOUT
Narcissus 'Larkwhistle', commonly known as the daffodil, is a flowering plant that presents a charming display of flowers, usually in the early to mid-spring season. The blooms are distinctive with a central trumpet-shaped corona surrounded by a ring of petal-like tepals, often resulting in the quintessential daffodil look. The 'Larkwhistle' variety typically features this corona in a vibrant yellow that stands in contrast to the slightly paler hue of the surrounding tepals, each of which is usually oblong-shaped and may slightly recurve at the tip. The flowers are generally borne singly on individual stalks that sprout from a base of slender, green, sword-shaped leaves. The arrangement gives the plant a clean and orderly appearance, as multiple stems may emerge from a single bulb. The foliage provides an understated backdrop to the bright and showy flowers that are often synonymous with the coming of spring. The daffodil 'Larkwhistle' can add a splash of sunshine to garden beds, borders, and may also be used for cut flower arrangements, where its cheerful blossoms can light up indoor spaces.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae.
Synonyms
Daffodil, Jonquil, Narcissus.
Common names
Narcissus 'Larkwhistle'.
ToxicityTo humans
The Narcissus 'Larkwhistle', commonly known as the daffodil, has toxic components that can make it harmful to humans if ingested. The main toxic agents in daffodils are alkaloids, such as lycorine. Symptoms of daffodil poisoning may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. More severe reactions can involve cardiac arrhythmias, hypotension, convulsions, and in extreme cases, can be fatal. It is important to avoid eating any part of the daffodil plant.
To pets
The Narcissus 'Larkwhistle', known to us as daffodil, is toxic to pets. Ingesting any part of the daffodil can cause symptoms such as vomiting, salivation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, heart rhythm abnormalities, convulsions, and low blood pressure. The bulbs are the most poisonous part. Severe poisoning could lead to significant health complications, including death. Therefore, keep daffodils out of reach of pets.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1 foot 4 inches (0.4 meters)
Spread
1 foot (0.3 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Narcissus 'Larkwhistle', commonly known as daffodil, bears attractive blooms that brighten up gardens and landscapes.
- Easy to Grow: Daffodils are generally easy to cultivate and can thrive in a variety of soil conditions with minimal care.
- Spring Bloom: As a spring-blooming plant, daffodils provide early color to gardens after the winter months.
- Naturalizing: Daffodils have the ability to naturalize, meaning they can spread and multiply, creating denser floral displays over time.
- Resistance to Pests: Daffodils are known to be deer and rodent resistant, reducing the need for chemical repellents.
- Longevity: Many daffodil varieties offer a long blooming period and, being perennials, they return year after year.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Daffodil 'Larkwhistle' bulbs can be used as a natural dye source; when boiled, the bulbs can produce a yellow or orange dye suitable for coloring fabrics and yarns.
- The flowers of daffodils like 'Larkwhistle' can be pressed and included in botanical papermaking to create decorative paper products with real flower inclusions.
- They can be planted on slopes and banks for erosion control because their roots help hold the soil in place while their foliage provides ground cover.
- Daffodil 'Larkwhistle' flowers can be used to create natural fragrances; petals can be infused in oils to extract their scent for homemade perfumes or scented candles.
- Macerated daffodil 'Larkwhistle' flowers can be incorporated into homemade soaps for a gentle exfoliating effect and subtle floral scent.
- The dried flowers of daffodils can be utilized in potpourri mixes, along with other dried flowers and aromatic herbs, to fragrance a room.
- The silhouette of daffodil 'Larkwhistle' can be used in garden design as a decorative element that provides visual interest due to its unique flower shape.
- Daffodil 'Larkwhistle' is suitable for companion planting to deter rodents, as they tend to avoid areas where daffodils are planted due to their toxicity.
- The sturdy stems and distinctive flowers of daffodils can be used in naturalistic floral arrangements to help support more delicate stems.
- Daffodil 'Larkwhistle', when planted in drifts, can be utilized for landscape photography, providing an impressive backdrop of bright colors in spring.
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: Narcissi, commonly known as daffodils, bloom in early spring and are often associated with renewal and the coming of a new season or chapter in life.
- Self-Reflection: Named after the character Narcissus in Greek mythology who fell in love with his own reflection, these flowers sometimes represent introspection and self-awareness.
- Vanity and Self-Admiration: In line with the mythological story, daffodils can also symbolize egotism, excessive self-love, and vanity.
- Hopes and Dreams: Because they are one of the first flowers to bloom in spring, daffodils often signify the persistence of hope and the fulfillment of desires.
- Unequaled Love: The daffodil is a symbol of deep, unrequited love, reflecting again the story of Narcissus who had no one to return his affection.
- Prosperity: In some cultures, daffodils are associated with good fortune and success, especially when they bloom abundantly.
WaterDaffodils, including the Narcissus 'Larkwhistle', typically require watering whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. During their active growth period in the spring, this may translate to watering once a week with about 1 inch of water, which is approximately 0.6 gallons for a typical garden bed. Be cautious not to overwater, as daffodils are prone to rot in soggy soil. When they are dormant, after the flowering period, they usually require less water. It's important to reduce watering frequency as the foliage begins to yellow and the bulbs enter dormancy.
LightDaffodils thrive in full sun to partial shade conditions. The ideal spot for the Narcissus 'Larkwhistle' is in an area that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. However, they can also tolerate light shade, particularly in hotter climates where some afternoon shade can prevent overheating.
TemperatureDaffodils are hardy flowers that can endure winter freezes and are typically planted in the fall. For Narcissus 'Larkwhistle', the ideal growing temperatures are between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the growing season. They can survive temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit, although prolonged exposure to temperatures below this can be harmful.
PruningDaffodils, including the Narcissus 'Larkwhistle', should be deadheaded after the flowers have faded to prevent seed development, which can drain energy from the bulb. Do not cut back the foliage until it has yellowed and died back naturally, which is often a few weeks after blooming. This allows the plant to store energy for the following year's growth. Pruning is typically done annually.
CleaningNot needed
SoilDaffodils like Narcissus 'Larkwhistle' prefer well-drained soil that's rich in organic matter. A good mix would consist of loamy soil, peat moss or compost, and some sand or perlite to improve drainage. These plants thrive with a soil pH of 6.0 to 7.0, slightly acidic to neutral.
RepottingDaffodils like Narcissus 'Larkwhistle' generally do not need to be repotted often. They should be replanted every 3 to 5 years or when the bulbs become crowded in their current space.
Humidity & MistingNarcissus 'Larkwhistle', commonly known as Daffodil, prefers moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable. Best growth is usually seen when humidity is not extremely low or high, roughly around 40-60%.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light with cool temperatures.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade with good drainage.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleNarcissus 'Larkwhistle', commonly known as daffodil, begins its life cycle when a dormant bulb is planted in well-drained soil in the fall before the first frost. The bulb roots in the autumn, drawing nutrients and moisture from the soil to prepare for spring growth. In early spring, as temperatures rise and the days lengthen, the bulb sends up shoots that develop into the distinctive foliage and flower stems of the daffodil. The iconic yellow flower typically blooms in mid to late spring, marking the reproductive stage where it can attract pollinators for seed formation, although many cultivated varieties are largely propagated by dividing bulbs. After flowering, the plant continues photosynthesis to store energy in the bulb as the foliage dies back, which is essential for the next season's growth. Once the leaves have completely withered away, the daffodil enters a period of dormancy again during the summer until the cycle restarts in autumn.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method for propagating the Narcissus 'Larkwhistle', commonly known as the daffodil, is by dividing its bulbs. This typically takes place in late summer to early fall, after the leaves have died back and the bulbs have gone dormant. To propagate, carefully dig up the clumps of bulbs and gently separate them by hand, ensuring that each division has at least one growing point. Replant these divisions immediately at a depth of about 6 inches (15 centimeters) and spaced 3 to 6 inches (7.5 to 15 centimeters) apart in well-draining soil. Water them well after planting to help establish the roots. This method allows the plants to maintain the characteristics of the 'Larkwhistle' variety, ensuring that the new plants will produce the same beautiful blooms as the parent.
