Daffodil Narcissus 'Mite' (6)
ABOUT
The Narcissus 'Mite' is better known by its common name Daffodil ‘Mite.’ This particular variety is admired for its distinctive, cheerful flowers. Each bloom is characterized by its prominent, trumpet-shaped corona which is surrounded by a ring of six petal-like tepals. The trumpet is usually a deeper or brighter yellow than the tepals. The flowers are perched atop a singular, sturdy stem which emerges from a base of linear, green leaves that tend to arch gracefully as they grow. The overall impression is one of classic daffodil form, with a vivid coloration that brightens up spring gardens. The plant typically produces its striking blooms in the early to mid-spring season.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae
Synonyms
Miniature Daffodil, Dwarf Narcissus
Common names
Narcissus 'Mite'
ToxicityTo humans
The Narcissus 'Mite', commonly known as the daffodil, is considered toxic to humans if any part of the plant is ingested. The primary toxic agents in daffodils are lycorine and other alkaloids which can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to more serious reactions like cardiac arrhythmias, convulsions, or significant drops in blood pressure. Handling the bulb can also cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
To pets
The daffodil is toxic to pets. If ingested by an animal such as a dog or cat, the plant can cause symptoms including vomiting, excessive salivation, diarrhea, convulsions, low blood pressure, tremors, and cardiac arrhythmias. Especially the bulb contains the highest concentration of toxins, but all parts of the plant can be harmful if consumed in enough quantity.сть
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
0.5 feet (15 cm)
Spread
0.5 feet (15 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal - The Narcissus 'Mite', commonly known as the 'daffodil', adds beauty to gardens with its bright, cheerful blooms.
- Low Maintenance - Daffodils typically require minimal care, making them suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Spring Indicator - Daffodils are one of the first flowers to bloom in spring, signaling the end of winter and the start of warmer weather.
- Wildlife Friendly - Their flowers can attract pollinators such as bees, supporting local ecosystems.
- Perennial Growth - As a perennial, daffodils return year after year, providing long-term garden enjoyment.
- Naturalizing Ability - Daffodils can spread and naturalize an area over time, creating a denser floral display with minimal human intervention.
- Cutting Garden Addition - Daffodils are excellent for cutting gardens, as their flowers can be brought indoors to create fresh bouquets.
- Deer and Rodent Resistance - Daffodils are generally resistant to deer and rodents, reducing the risk of plants being eaten and damaged.
- Variety of Forms - With many cultivars available, daffodils offer a range of colors, shapes, and sizes to suit any garden design.
- Companion Planting - Daffodils can be planted alongside other spring-blooming bulbs and perennials, creating layered and diverse garden displays.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Narcissus 'Mite', commonly known as Daffodil, can be used in the production of dyes, particularly yellow dyes, which can be derived from the flowers.
- The sap from Daffodil stems contains crystals called calcium oxalate, which can be researched for potential use in fine particle filtration or manufacturing processes.
- Daffodils can be used in educational settings such as schools for plant biology studies, where students can examine bulb growth patterns and reproductive processes.
- Daffodils, especially in abundant quantities, can be used in the study of pollinator-plant relationships as they provide nectar and attract bees and other insects.
- The sturdy stems and bulb shapes of Daffodils can be used by floral arrangement enthusiasts to create intricate displays due to their ability to hold up heavier blooms alongside them.
- Dried Narcissus flowers can be crafted into potpourri mixtures to add natural fragrance to rooms or drawers without using artificial scents.
- Daffodil planting patterns and bulb clumps can be employed in erosion control as their root systems can help hold soil together, particularly on slopes.
- The bright colors of Daffodils can be utilized in chromotherapy or color therapy, which is an alternative healing method where colors are used to balance energy in the body.
- Creative artists may use the image or concept of the Daffodil in poetry, literature, and visual arts, symbolizing rebirth and new beginnings due to their association with early spring.
- Daffodil festivals can be organized around their blooming season, serving both as a tourist attraction and a community event that celebrates the flower's aesthetic and cultural significance.
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: Narcissus 'Mite' blooms in early spring, symbolizing the renewal of nature and the emergence of life after winter.
- Self-Love: Named after the Greek myth of Narcissus, this flower is often associated with narcissism and self-admiration.
- Vanity: As with the myth, Narcissus can imply an excessive focus on one's appearance or abilities.
- Wealth and Prosperity: In some cultures, Narcissus is a symbol of wealth and success, as its blooming coincides with the Lunar New Year in Chinese tradition.
- Hope: This flower is viewed as a bearer of hope because it is one of the first flowers to appear in the year.
- Uncertainty and Inconstancy: In the language of flowers, Narcissus can sometimes represent uncertainty or unrequited love due to the flower's downcast appearance.
WaterDaffodils, including the variety 'Mite', should be watered thoroughly at planting and kept moist throughout the growing season. They require about 1 inch of water per week, either from rainfall or supplemental watering. In periods of drought or particularly dry conditions, increase watering slightly, but be cautious not to overwater as this can lead to bulb rot. Once the daffodils have finished blooming and the foliage begins to yellow, you can reduce watering as the bulbs enter a dormant state.
LightDaffodils prefer a spot with full sun to partial shade, meaning they should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. They thrive under bright conditions with some protection from the hottest part of the day. Dappled light conditions or early morning/late afternoon sun are ideal for the 'Mite' variety.
TemperatureDaffodils are hardy and can typically withstand winter temperatures as low as 15°F, and some varieties can survive even colder conditions. They thrive in the springtime with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F. It's important to plant them in the fall, at least a few weeks before the ground freezes, so they can establish roots before the cold winter.
PruningDeadheading spent flowers on daffodils, such as 'Mite', can help the plant conserve energy for the next blooming season. However, do not remove the foliage until it has completely died back naturally, as this is when the plant is photosynthesizing and storing energy in the bulb for the following year. Pruning is minimal and typically done annually after the blooming period.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Miniature Daffodil prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.0 and 7.0. A good soil mix would be equal parts loamy soil, peat, and sand for drainage.
RepottingMiniature Daffodils typically require repotting every 2 to 3 years or once the bulbs become overcrowded in their current container.
Humidity & MistingThe Miniature Daffodil thrives in average room humidity levels, around 40-60%. They are not particularly demanding in terms of air moisture.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Plant in a well-lit spot, use well-draining soil, and water sparingly.
Outdoor
Plant in sunlight, ensure good drainage, and protect from extreme cold.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Narcissus 'Mite', also known as Miniature Daffodil, begins its lifecycle as a bulb, planted in the fall before the first frost. The bulb experiences a period of dormancy through the winter, which is crucial for its development. As spring approaches, warmer temperatures and increased daylight trigger the bulb to sprout, sending up shoots and leaves. The Miniature Daffodil then blooms in early to mid-spring, producing its characteristic small, yellow flowers. After flowering, the plant goes through a period of senescence where the leaves die back and the plant redirects energy to the bulb, which stores nutrients for the next growing season. Finally, the plant enters a dormant phase during the summer, where it remains underground until the next cycle begins with the cooling temperatures of fall.
PropogationPropogation time
Early spring
For Narcissus 'Mite', more commonly known as a daffodil variety, the most popular method of propagation is by dividing its bulbs. This generally takes place in the late summer to autumn, after the foliage has died back but before the ground freezes. Gardeners carefully dig up the bulbs and gently separate any small bulblets that have formed attached to the main bulb. These bulblets are then planted immediately, about 6 inches (roughly 15 centimeters) deep and spaced about 3 to 6 inches (approximately 7.5 to 15 centimeters) apart, in well-drained soil with ample sunlight. Over time, these bulblets will grow into mature bulbs and produce their own flowers, typically blooming in the following spring.
