Daffodil Narcissus 'Mount Hood' (1)
ABOUT
Narcissus 'Mount Hood' is a daffodil variety known for its exceptionally striking appearance. The plant features large, showy flowers that usually come in a bright white color. Each blossom comprises a central trumpet-shaped corona surrounded by a ring of six petal-like structures known as tepals, which are also white and often slightly overlapping at their edges. Inside the trumpet, there are subtle ruffled edges, adding texture and depth to the flower. The blooms are carried atop sturdy green stems which emerge from a clump of strap-shaped, deep green leaves. These leaves are usually glossy, contributing to the overall lush appearance of the plant. The contrast between the pure white blooms and the dark green foliage makes it a standout selection for any garden. Despite the absence of details on its specific proportions, 'Mount Hood' undoubtedly commands attention with its sizeable, eye-catching flowers that herald the arrival of spring.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae
Synonyms
Mount Hood Daffodil, Trumpet Daffodil, White Daffodil
Common names
Narcissus 'Mount Hood'
ToxicityTo humans
Daffodil, specifically the Narcissus 'Mount Hood', is considered toxic if ingested. The plant contains a compound called lycorine, which can cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea if eaten. Ingesting large amounts can lead to more severe symptoms, including tremors, heart problems, and even convulsions or a drop in blood pressure. Handling the bulbs can cause skin irritation, so it is advisable to take precautions such as wearing gloves during planting or handling. It is important to keep daffodils out of reach of children and to educate them not to eat any parts of ornamental plants.
To pets
Daffodil is toxic to pets as well. When a pet, such as a dog or cat, ingests any part of a daffodil, including the bulbs, leaves, flowers, or even the water from a vase containing daffodils, it can lead to poisoning. Symptoms of daffodil poisoning in pets can include vomiting, salivation, diarrhea, low blood pressure, tremors, and cardiac arrhythmias. Ingesting large amounts of the bulb, which is the most poisonous part of the plant, can cause more significant distress and possibly lead to severe gastrointestinal upset, convulsions, and potentially fatal cardiac problems. If you suspect your pet has consumed any part of a daffodil, you should contact your veterinarian immediately. It's best to prevent access to these plants to keep your pets safe.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-1.5 feet (30-45 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Spring Interest: 'Mount Hood' daffodils provide bright, cheerful blooms early in the spring, adding color and interest to the garden after winter.
- Landscape Beautification: These flowers are commonly used in borders, rock gardens, and as bedding plants, enhancing the visual appeal of landscapes.
- Low Maintenance: Daffodils are known for their ease of care; they require minimal attention once planted and are relatively drought-tolerant.
- Pest Resistance: 'Mount Hood' daffodils are resistant to deer and rodents, which makes them ideal for areas where these pests are common.
- Perennial Growth: As perennials, these daffodils return year after year, providing long-term value and decreasing the need for annual replanting.
- Easy to Propagate: They can naturally propagate through bulb division, allowing gardeners to expand their collection without additional cost.
- Symbolism and Tradition: Daffodils, including 'Mount Hood', are often associated with rebirth and new beginnings, making them a popular choice for spring celebrations.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Narcissus 'Mount Hood' can be utilized as a natural pest repellent in gardens due to certain alkaloids that may deter moles and voles.
- The dried petals of the daffodil can be incorporated into potpourri mixtures for a subtly fragrant addition to home décor.
- This plant may be used in a cut flower arrangement not only for its beauty but also to discourage deer from nibbling on other flowers in the bouquet.
- Daffodil bulbs can be used in a technique called forcing, to bloom indoors out of season for decorative purposes during winter months.
- The sturdy stalks of daffodils can act as natural supports for other weaker-stemmed plants in the garden.
- The daffodil's bright blooms can be used as natural dye sources for eco-friendly fabric and craft coloring when processed correctly.
- Creative gardeners might use spent daffodil flowers as a molding shape for garden stepping stones or concrete patio decorations.
- Daffodils can serve as a living mulch when densely planted, preventing weed growth and conserving soil moisture.
- When planting daffodils in large quantities, they can help stabilize soil on slopes and reduce erosion.
- In floral symbolism, daffodils represent renewal and can be used to convey a message of new beginnings, making them suitable for events like graduations or housewarmings.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Daffodil is used in Feng Shui to attract good fortune and prosperity, especially when placed in the wealth corner of the home, which is traditionally the southeast area.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Daffodil is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Rebirth and New Beginnings: The Narcissus 'Mount Hood' traditionally blooms in early spring, marking the end of winter and symbolizing fresh starts and new opportunities.
- Self-Love: The name Narcissus stems from the Greek myth of a beautiful youth who fell in love with his own reflection, making the flower a symbol of self-love and admiration.
- Vanity: In connection to the Greek myth, the Narcissus can also symbolize excessive self-love and vanity.
- Prosperity: In some cultures, Narcissus is believed to bring good fortune and wealth, especially when blooming on the Chinese New Year.
- Hope: Their bright, cheerful blossoms are often seen as a sign of hope and optimism.
WaterDaffodils, including Narcissus 'Mount Hood', should be watered deeply immediately after planting and regularly during the growing season. They require about one inch of water each week, which equates to approximately 0.623 gallons per square yard, depending on rainfall. It's best to water them at the base to avoid getting water on the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. Once the plants have finished blooming and the leaves begin to yellow, you can reduce watering as they enter dormancy.
LightDaffodils, such as the Narcissus 'Mount Hood', thrive in areas where they can receive full to partial sunlight. The ideal location is where they get at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. These conditions will ensure the best growth and flowering performance. They can tolerate some light shade, particularly in hot climates where afternoon shade can help protect them from extreme heat.
TemperatureDaffodils, including Narcissus 'Mount Hood', prefer a temperate climate and are hardy in a temperature range that typically extends from 20°F to 70°F. They need a period of cold dormancy, which is why they thrive in areas with cold winters and moderate springs. The ideal growing temperature for daffodils is between 50°F and 60°F, which promotes healthy growth and flowering.
PruningPruning daffodils like Narcissus 'Mount Hood' is not necessary for the health of the plant, but spent flowers should be deadheaded promptly to encourage the plant to store energy for next year's bloom. Leave the foliage in place until it turns yellow and begins to wilt, which is usually about six weeks after blooming, as this is when the plant is gathering energy for next year's growth. Pruning should be done after the blooming season, generally in late spring or early summer.
CleaningNot needed
SoilDaffodils like Narcissus 'Mount Hood' thrive in well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A mixture of loamy soil with added compost and a bit of sand for improved drainage creates the optimal growing medium for these bulbs.
RepottingDaffodils such as Narcissus 'Mount Hood' typically don't require annual repotting. They should be repotted every 3 to 5 years, or when clumps become crowded.
Humidity & MistingNarcissus 'Mount Hood' tolerate a wide range of humidity levels and do not require specific humidity conditions to thrive.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and cool temperatures.
Outdoor
Plant in well-drained soil with sun to partial shade.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleNarcissus 'Mount Hood', commonly known as daffodil, begins its life cycle when a seed germinates in the soil, usually in late spring to early summer, developing into a bulb. As temperatures cool and autumn approaches, roots grow from the base of the bulb, and the plant enters a period of dormancy through the winter. With the arrival of spring, triggered by increasing temperatures and longer daylight hours, the bulb sends up shoots that grow into stems and leaves. From these stems, buds develop and eventually bloom into the characteristic white trumpet-shaped flowers, commonly seen in gardens and landscapes. After flowering, the plant redirects its energy back into the bulb as the foliage dies back, storing nutrients for the next year's growth cycle. The cycle repeats annually, with bulbs also capable of producing offsets, which can be separated to propagate new plants.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
The most popular method of propagating the Daffodil 'Mount Hood' is through division of its bulbs. This is most effectively done when the plants are dormant, generally in late summer to fall after the foliage has died back. Gardeners carefully dig up the clumps of bulbs and gently separate them by hand, making sure each section has at least one growing point. It's important to avoid damaging the bulbs during this process. After division, the bulbs should be immediately replanted at a depth of about 6 inches (15 centimeters) and spaced 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) apart to ensure adequate room for root growth and next season's bloom. Ensuring proper soil preparation with good drainage and a little bone meal or bulb fertilizer will help in rejuvenating the transplanted bulbs for a vigorous grow-back in the spring.
