Daffodil Narcissus 'Le Torch' (4)
ABOUT
Narcissus 'Le Torch' is an exquisite variety of daffodil known for its vibrant and showy flowers. These blossoms are unique in their coloration, with a brilliant orange-red trumpet that radiates from the center, surrounded by a ring of soft white petals that are pointed and slightly recurved at the tips. The center trumpet, also known as the corona, has a textured surface and a slightly frilled edge, which adds to the flower's ornate appearance. The contrast between the white perianth segments and the vivid corona creates a striking visual spectacle when the daffodil is in bloom. The foliage of Narcissus 'Le Torch' is also attractive, comprising slender, strap-like leaves. These leaves are a deep green in color and have a slightly glossy finish, providing a perfect backdrop for the radiant flowers. The plant typically produces one flower per stem, with each bloom standing proudly atop a sturdy, upright flower stalk. The overall aesthetic of Narcissus 'Le Torch' is one of elegance and a bold splash of color, making it a favored choice for garden displays, border plantings, and for providing a lively accent in floral arrangements.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Daffodil, Narcissus, Jonquil.
Common names
Narcissus 'Le Torch'.
ToxicityTo humans
The common name for Narcissus 'Le Torch' is Daffodil. Daffodils contain toxic alkaloids such as lycorine which can cause symptoms if ingested. Symptoms of daffodil poisoning include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. More severe cases can lead to dehydration, an irregular heartbeat, and in extreme cases, respiratory depression. Handling the bulb might also cause skin irritation due to calcium oxalate crystals.
To pets
The common name for Narcissus 'Le Torch' is Daffodil. Daffodils are toxic to pets, including cats and dogs. Ingesting any part of the plant, especially the bulbs, can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, drooling, and in severe cases, cardiac arrhythmias or difficulty breathing. Larger ingestions can potentially result in convulsions or a serious drop in blood pressure, which might be life-threatening. Veterinary attention is advised if a pet has ingested daffodils.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
0.5 feet (15 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal - Adds aesthetic value to gardens with its vibrant yellow flowers and striking appearance.
- Easy to Grow - Adaptable to various soil types and can be grown with minimal care.
- Drought Tolerant - Once established, it can survive with limited water, making it suitable for xeriscaping.
- Pest Resistant - Naturally resistant to many pests, reducing the need for chemical pesticides.
- Attracts Pollinators - Draws in bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects that promote pollination in the garden.
- Spring Blooming - Provides early spring color and interest after a long winter.
- Perennial Growth - Comes back year after year without the need for replanting.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Daffodil 'Le Torch' bulbs can be used as a natural pest repellent in the garden as they contain compounds that many pests find undesirable.
- The sap of daffodils is known to be toxic to other flowers and can be used intentionally to shorten the lifespan of cut flowers if needed for artistic purposes.
- Daffodil flowers can be used in dyeing fabric, providing a range of colors from yellow to green, depending on the mordants used.
- The crushed daffodil bulbs can be applied to the soil to potentially deter moles and voles, who dislike the scent and taste.
- Daffodil flowers can be used as a model in art and photography classes due to their unique shape and vibrant colors.
- As a companion plant, daffodils can be placed around fruit trees to deter rodents from gnawing on the trees due to their unpalatable nature.
- In the past, the sticky sap from daffodil stems has been experimented with as a natural adhesive for small tasks.
- During spring festivals or parades, daffodil flowers may be floated in water features or fountains for decorative purposes.
- The vibrant yellow hue of daffodil petals can be used in the craft industry to create natural confetti for events such as weddings or parties.
- The distinctive trumpet shape of the daffodil 'Le Torch' can inspire design elements in fashion, such as patterns or textures in fabric design.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Narcissus is associated with good fortune and wealth in Feng Shui practice. To use the Narcissus, it should be placed in the wealth corner of your home or business, which is typically the southeast corner, to promote prosperity and abundance.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Narcissus is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Self-Love: Named after the mythical Greek character who fell in love with his own reflection, Narcissus 'Le Torch', commonly known as Daffodil, often symbolizes self-admiration and vanity.
- Rebirth: Daffodils are among the first flowers to bloom in spring, thus they represent renewal and the coming of new beginnings.
- Unrequited Love: In some traditions, daffodils represent unrequited love, perhaps stemming from the Narcissus myth where he is entranced by his own image and cannot love another.
- Hope: The bright blooming of the daffodil after a long winter signifies hope and optimism for the future.
WaterFor the Daffodil 'Le Torch', regular watering is crucial during the growing season. It is best to water them once a week with about 1 inch of water, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. During the dormant period after the flowers have bloomed and the leaves have died back, reduce watering significantly. Always water at the base of the plant rather than overhead to prevent wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. Depending on weather conditions, such as periods of drought or excessive rainfall, adjust the amount of water accordingly.
LightDaffodils, including 'Le Torch', prefer bright, indirect sunlight. They thrive best when planted in a spot that receives morning sunlight and partial shade in the afternoon. Avoiding intense midday sun is beneficial for their growth, ensuring they have the ideal light conditions without the risk of scorching their foliage.
TemperatureDaffodils like 'Le Torch' are hardy and can survive in temperatures as low as 20°F and as high as 70°F. They perform best when the daytime temperature range is between 50°F and 60°F. It is crucial to protect the bulbs from extreme cold by providing adequate mulch or planting them at the correct depth, typically about 6 inches deep.
PruningPruning Daffodils like 'Le Torch' typically involves deadheading the spent flowers to maintain a neat appearance and prevent seed production, which can divert energy away from the bulb. Cut back the flower stalks to the base once blooming has finished, but allow the leaves to remain until they die back naturally. This process usually happens once a year, immediately after the flowering period.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDaffodil 'Le Torch' prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of two-thirds loamy soil and one-third aged compost or well-rotted manure provides nutrients and promotes good drainage, essential for bulb health.
RepottingDaffodils such as 'Le Torch' typically do not require frequent repotting and can be left undisturbed for several years. They should be repotted or divided only when clumps become overcrowded, usually every 3 to 5 years.
Humidity & MistingDaffodil 'Le Torch' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does not have specific humidity requirements. It thrives in outdoor conditions where the humidity naturally fluctuates.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place 'Le Torch' daffodil in bright, indirect light indoors.
Outdoor
Plant 'Le Torch' daffodil in well-draining soil and full to partial sun.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleDaffodil 'Le Torch' begins its life cycle as a bulb, which lies dormant underground during the winter. In early spring, the bulb sends up shoots, leading to the development of sturdy stems and strap-like leaves. The characteristic flower buds emerge shortly thereafter, opening into the distinctive double-petaled, orange-yellow blooms that make 'Le Torch' a garden favorite. After flowering, the plant directs energy back into the bulb as the leaves photosynthesize, replenishing the bulb's energy stores for the next season. The foliage dies back naturally as summer progresses, and the bulb returns to dormancy. This cycle repeats yearly, with the bulb also producing offsets occasionally, which can grow into new plants.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Early Summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagation for Narcissus 'Le Torch', commonly known as daffodil, is through division of its bulbs. The best time for this process is in late summer to early fall, after the foliage has died back and the plant is dormant. Gardeners should carefully dig up the clumps of bulbs and gently separate them, making sure each division has at least one growth point or bud. These bulbs can then be immediately replanted about 6 inches (15 centimeters) deep into well-draining soil, ideally in a sunny location. Watering should be light until growth is evident in the spring to avoid rot. This method is not only straightforward but also helps to rejuvenate older clumps that might have stopped flowering, ensuring a continuous display of blooms year after year.
