Daffodil Narcissus 'Madam Speaker' (4)
ABOUT
Narcissus 'Madam Speaker' is a captivating plant with an elegant flower display. It boasts a central trumpet-shaped corona surrounded by a ring of larger, petal-like tepals, commonly referred to as the perianth segments. The corona often exhibits a different hue, sometimes a contrasting one, which elegantly highlights the flower's eye-catching form. The blooms are displayed atop strong, upright stalks, with each bearing a striking effect in the garden. The leaves of 'Madam Speaker' are long and slender, typically arching gracefully. They have a deep green color that beautifully complements the vivid blossoms. An enchanting feature of this variety is its tendency to bloom in clusters, creating a striking visual impact with numerous flowers often on a single stem. The petals and the trumpet may display a variety of colors, but typically share a palette that is harmonious and attractive. Overall, Narcissus 'Madam Speaker' makes for a delightful addition to any garden, offering a showcase of blooms that herald the spring season with a blend of charm and sophistication.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Daffodil, Jonquil, Narcissus.
Common names
Narcissus 'Madam Speaker'
ToxicityTo humans
The most common name of the Narcissus 'Madam Speaker' is daffodil. Daffodils contain lycorine and other toxic alkaloids which can cause poisoning if ingested. The symptoms of daffodil poisoning in humans can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to cardiac arrhythmias, low blood pressure, tremors, and even seizures. It is important to avoid consuming any part of the daffodil plant.
To pets
For pets, daffodils are also toxic. The ingestion of any part of the daffodil by pets can lead to similar symptoms as in humans, such as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and excessive drooling. More serious effects can include cardiac arrhythmias and convulsions. If a pet consumes daffodils, it is essential to seek veterinary care immediately to manage the toxicity.
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
3-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Narcissus 'Madam Speaker' provides a valuable food source for various pollinators such as bees and butterflies in the garden.
- Low Maintenance: Daffodils typically require minimal care once established, making it a convenient choice for gardeners of all experience levels.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, daffodils can tolerate periods of dry weather, making them suitable for gardens in drier climates.
- Deer and Rodent Resistant: This plant is generally resistant to damage from deer and rodents, which can be particularly useful in areas where these animals are a common problem.
- Long Bloom Time: Daffodils have a lengthy blooming period in the spring, bringing extended color and vibrancy to a garden.
- Naturalizing: Over time, daffodils can naturally multiply and spread, creating a denser and more impressive display in the landscape.
- Versatility: Daffodils can be grown in flower beds, borders, containers, and even wildflower gardens, offering a wide range of landscaping possibilities.
- Seasonal Interest: With their early spring flowers, daffodils offer a burst of cheer after the winter months, providing seasonal interest in the garden.
- Cut Flower Use: Daffodils are excellent for cutting and creating vibrant indoor floral arrangements, bringing a touch of the garden indoors.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The sap of daffodils can be used as a natural glue for small crafts or as an emergency adhesive when out in nature.
- Fibers from the daffodil plant may be used in textile production for making specialty papers or woven into small decorative items.
- Crushed daffodil bulbs can sometimes be used as a natural pesticide in gardens to deter certain rodents, due to their toxicity.
- Daffodil flowers can be used in dyeing fabrics, yielding a range of colors depending on the mordants and processes used.
- The distinctive shape and bright color of daffodils make them ideal as a natural tool for teaching children about plant biology and reproduction.
- Dried daffodil petals can be added to potpourri mixes for their texture and subtle fragrance when fresh blooms are not available.
- Discarded daffodil bulbs may be used as a composting agent to add nutrients back into the soil, enriching it for other plants.
- Photographers and artists often use daffodils as subjects in their work due to their vibrant color and association with springtime.
- In perfumery, while not a common ingredient, daffodil essences can sometimes be used to create unique, spring-inspired scents.
- Extracts from daffodil flowers might be used in luxury beauty products for their natural fragrances in lotions and bath oils.
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: In many cultures, the Narcissus, commonly known as the daffodil, is seen as a symbol of spring, representing rebirth and renewal because it is one of the first perennials to bloom after the winter frost.
- Hope and Inspiration: Daffodils are associated with hope, often tied to their bright yellow color that resembles sunshine and brings a positive and uplifting feeling.
- Vanity: Derived from the Greek myth of Narcissus, who fell in love with his own reflection, the daffodil can represent self-absorption and excessive self-love.
- Prosperity and Wealth: In some traditions, especially Chinese culture, daffodils are believed to bring good fortune and are associated with prosperity and wealth.
WaterDaffodils, such as the Narcissus 'Madam Speaker', require moderate watering, especially during their active growth and blooming period in spring. Water the plants thoroughly once a week to a depth of approximately 6 inches, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. During the dormant period after blooming, reduce watering significantly to prevent bulb rot. An estimated half a gallon per square yard per week during the growing season should suffice, tapering off as the foliage begins to yellow and die back.
LightDaffodils, including Narcissus 'Madam Speaker', thrive in full to partial sunlight. They perform best when they receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Plant them in a spot that gets ample morning light, which will encourage strong growth and flowering. Dappled sunlight throughout the day can also be suitable, especially in areas with very hot afternoon sun, to prevent the flowers from fading too quickly.
TemperatureDaffodils like Narcissus 'Madam Speaker' do well in a wide range of temperatures, ideally between 50°F and 70°F. They can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F and as high as 80°F, but for optimal growth and bloom, keeping them within the ideal range is best. They are cold hardy and typically planted in the fall, with the cooler temperatures promoting root development.
PruningDaffodils, like Narcissus 'Madam Speaker', require minimal pruning. Deadhead spent flowers to prevent seed formation and to direct energy back to the bulb for next year's growth. Do not cut back the foliage until it has turned yellow and withered, which is usually 6 weeks after blooming. This allows the plant to photosynthesize and store energy in the bulb.
CleaningAs needed
SoilNarcissus 'Madam Speaker', commonly known as Daffodil, thrives best in well-drained, fertile soil with a slight acidity to neutral pH, around 6.0 to 7.0. A soil mix with equal parts of loam, sand, and compost or well-rotted manure will provide the nutrients and drainage Daffodils need.
RepottingDaffodils, like Narcissus 'Madam Speaker', typically don't need frequent repotting and can be left undisturbed for several years. They are best repotted only when the bulbs become overcrowded, usually every 3 to 5 years.
Humidity & MistingDaffodils, including Narcissus 'Madam Speaker', prefer moderate humidity levels but are quite adaptable and do not require specific humidity conditions. They perform well in the average outdoor humidity levels found in their growing zones.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place the Daffodil in bright, indirect light; keep the soil moderately moist.
Outdoor
Plant bulbs in fall in full sun to partial shade, in well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of the Daffodil 'Madam Speaker' starts with bulb dormancy, where the bulb remains underground in a rest period typically during the summer months. In the fall, the cooler temperatures and reduced daylight signal the bulb to break dormancy and initiate root growth. As winter comes to an end, and the temperature rises, the bulb sends up shoots that develop into leaves and a central flower stalk, culminating in the blooming of the characteristic Daffodil flower in the spring. After flowering, the plant undergoes a period of photosynthesis and nutrient accumulation; the leaves gather energy which is stored in the bulb for the next year's growth cycle. As the temperatures rise towards the end of spring, the leaves yellow and wither as the plant re-enters dormancy, preparing the bulb for the next cycle. Seed production may occur if the flowers were pollinated, but for many cultivated varieties like 'Madam Speaker,' vegetative reproduction through bulb division is more common.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
The Narcissus 'Madam Speaker', commonly known as the Daffodil, is typically propagated by bulb division, which is the most popular method. The best time to propagate Daffodils by dividing the bulbs is after the foliage has died back, usually in late summer to early autumn. During this period, the bulb reserves are at their peak, ready to support new growth in the following season. To propagate by division, gently lift the clump of bulbs from the soil and carefully separate the smaller, offset bulbs from the parent bulb. These offsets can be replanted immediately at a depth of about 6 inches (approximately 15 centimeters) and spaced 3 to 6 inches apart (approximately 7.5 to 15 centimeters) to allow for adequate room for root development and future growth. It's important to choose a well-draining site with plenty of sunlight to ensure the best growth conditions for the newly planted bulbs.
