Daffodil Narcissus 'Little Witch' (6)
ABOUT
Narcissus 'Little Witch' is a charming bulbous perennial that is a part of the daffodil family. The plant is characterized by its striking flowers which are typically borne on a central stem. Each bloom has a trumpet-shaped structure at the center, often called a corona, which is surrounded by a ring of petal-like tepals. The corona is usually a bright, eye-catching color, setting off the more subdued hue of the surrounding tepals. The blooms have a symmetrical form and exude a delicate fragrance that is a delight in the spring garden. The foliage of Narcissus 'Little Witch' consists of long, narrow leaves that grow from the base of the plant. These leaves are a deep green color and have a slightly fleshy texture, which is typical of many daffodils. The leaves form an attractive backdrop to the cheerful flowers, and their linear shape adds a sense of structure and orderliness to the plant's overall appearance. Typically flowering in spring, this Narcissus variety brings a touch of whimsy and color to beds, borders, and containers with its delightful blossoms. Its common name, daffodil, is apt for these iconic harbingers of spring, and 'Little Witch' is a cultivar that captures the playful and enchanting essence suggested by its name. The plant's aesthetic contributes to its popularity for ornamental use in gardens and cut flower arrangements.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae
Synonyms
Dwarf Daffodil, Miniature Daffodil, Little Witch Daffodil
Common names
Narcissus 'Little Witch'
ToxicityTo humans
Daffodils, including the Narcissus 'Little Witch', contain toxic alkaloids such as lycorine and others, which can be harmful when ingested. Poisoning symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In severe cases, ingesting daffodils can lead to more serious effects such as cardiac arrhythmias, convulsions, or a significant drop in blood pressure. Handling daffodils, especially the bulb, may cause skin irritation or dermatitis in sensitive individuals.
To pets
Daffodils are toxic to pets, and ingesting any part of the plant, particularly the bulbs, can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and increased salivation. In severe cases, daffodil poisoning in pets can result in tremors, cardiac arrhythmias, low blood pressure, and even seizures. If you suspect your pet has ingested daffodils, seek veterinary assistance immediately.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
6-12 inches (15-30 cm)
Spread
6-12 inches (15-30 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Adds aesthetic appeal to gardens with its bright, cheerful flowers.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, making it ideal for busy gardeners.
- Pest Resistance: Generally resistant to pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, it can withstand periods of low rainfall.
- Attracts Pollinators: Flowers attract bees and other pollinators, supporting local ecosystems.
- Naturalizing: Multiplies over time to form clumps, filling in garden spaces naturally.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Narcissus 'Little Witch', commonly known as the daffodil, can be used in dye preparation—the bulbs contain compounds that can be used to produce a yellow or orange dye for textiles.
- In historical perfumery, the daffodil's essential oils were occasionally used as a component of fragrances, although it is not a common practice today due to potential skin sensitivities.
- The daffodil's sap is both adhesive and repellent, and has been used in traditional bookbinding as a natural glue and to repel insects from damaging the bindings.
- Crafting eco-friendly ink is another unusual use, as the crushed flowers and bulbs can provide a base for botanical ink used in artistic endeavors.
- Fishermen have occasionally used daffodil bulbs as an emergency substitute for bait due to their texture and scent, which can attract certain types of fish.
- Daffodils have been used in the art of pressed flowers, where their vibrant blooms can be preserved and displayed as a permanent decorative feature.
- The plant has cultural significance and can be used as a symbol in literature and art to represent themes such as vanity, unrequited love, or the arrival of spring.
- Edible varieties of daffodils are used in some experimental culinary dishes, although care must be taken due to the presence of toxic compounds in most Narcissus species.
- The fibrous leaves of the daffodil, when dried, can be woven into small baskets or mats as a form of traditional handicraft.
- Florists may use dried daffodil bulbs as a natural alternative to floral foam for anchoring stems in decorative arrangements.
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: Because they are some of the first flowers to bloom in spring, daffodils symbolize rebirth and new beginnings.
- Hope: The bright blossoms of daffodils bring hope and are often associated with the coming of spring and the end of winter.
- Prosperity: In some cultures, daffodils represent prosperity and are believed to bring good fortune, especially when they bloom in abundance.
- Respect: Daffodils can also symbolize mutual respect and admiration when given as a gift.
- Inspiration: The radiant appearance of daffodils has long been a muse for poets and artists, representing creativity and inspiration.
- Self-love: Inspired by the Greek myth of Narcissus, daffodils can sometimes denote self-love and self-absorption.
WaterDaffodil 'Little Witch' should be watered thoroughly whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which typically means once a week during the active growing season. The method of watering should ensure that the soil is evenly moistened, without waterlogging. During dormancy in the late fall to winter, reduce watering significantly, since the bulbs are resting and excess moisture can lead to rot. When watering, apply approximately one to two gallons per square yard of soil, depending on the soil type and environmental conditions.
LightDaffodil 'Little Witch' performs best in full sun to partial shade. The ideal spot for this plant would receive direct sunlight for at least half of the day. It's important to avoid overly shaded areas, as too little light can lead to poor flowering.
TemperatureDaffodil 'Little Witch' prefers a temperature range where nights are cool and the days are moderate. They can survive winter temperatures as low as 15 degrees Fahrenheit and tolerate summer temperatures up to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Ideally, these daffodils should be kept at temperatures between 50 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth.
PruningDaffodil 'Little Witch' requires minimal pruning, primarily deadheading spent flowers to promote tidiness and prevent seed production which can divert energy from bulb strengthening. Pruning is best done shortly after flowering has ended. Leaves should be allowed to die back naturally and shouldn't be cut back until they have completely yellowed, as they provide nourishment to the bulb for the next season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDaffodil 'Little Witch' thrives best in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. An ideal soil mix consists of equal parts loam, sand, and organic compost to ensure nutrients and proper drainage. Adjust soil pH if needed using lime to raise or sulfur to lower the pH to suit the daffodil.
RepottingDaffodils like 'Little Witch' are typically grown from bulbs and do not require frequent repotting. They should be lifted and divided every 3 to 5 years to prevent crowding and decline in flowering. After blooming in spring, wait for the foliage to die back before lifting bulbs.
Humidity & MistingDaffodil 'Little Witch' is not particularly sensitive to humidity and can tolerate the varying conditions found in most outdoor environments. The best humidity level for these daffodils is ambient outdoor humidity, with no special requirements for increased humidity.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Daffodil 'Little Witch' in bright, indirect light, and keep soil moist.
Outdoor
Plant Daffodil 'Little Witch' in full sun to partial shade with good drainage.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleNarcissus 'Little Witch' commonly known as daffodil, starts its life as a bulb, which undergoes a period of dormancy typically during the summer months. Once the cooler temperatures of autumn arrive, the bulb initiates root growth. As the winter progresses, leaves begin to emerge from the ground, followed by the development of a flower stalk bearing the distinctive daffodil blooms in early spring. After flowering, the plant goes through a period of photosynthesis, where the leaves gather energy and store it in the bulb for the next growing season. Eventually, the foliage yellows and dies back as the plant reenters dormancy. Each year, this cycle repeats, with the possibility of the bulb producing offsets, leading to the propagation of new plants.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagation for Narcissus 'Little Witch', also commonly known as the daffodil, is through division of its bulbs. This is typically done in the late summer to early fall, after the foliage has died back and the plant is dormant. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the entire clump of bulbs and gently separate them, making sure each section has at least one bulb with attached roots and foliage base. You can then replant these immediately at a depth about three times the height of the bulb, which is generally around 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) deep, depending on the size of the bulb. Space the bulbs about 3 to 6 inches (7 to 15 centimeters) apart to give them room to grow. Water them well after planting to help establish the roots. Division helps to rejuvenate crowded clumps and encourages more vigorous flowering.
