Daffodil Narcissus 'Nessa' (7)
ABOUT
Narcissus 'Nessa' is a captivating flower known more commonly as a daffodil. This particular variety showcases a stunning bloom that features a prominent central trumpet-shaped corona surrounded by a ring of six petal-like tepals. The corona is delicately ruffled, adding a touch of elegance to its appearance, while the tepals are typically broad and slightly cupped, emerging harmoniously around the corona. The color of Narcissus 'Nessa' is particularly striking. The trumpet usually exhibits a rich, vibrant color that may vary from the surrounding tepals, often creating a two-tone effect. The charm of this daffodil is enhanced by the contrast between the vivid corona and the paler tepals, which range from pure white to a soft pastel shade, providing a beautiful backdrop that makes the trumpet stand out even more. This plant's foliage is slender, long, and strap-like, with a deep green color that complements the bright hues of the flowers. The leaves arise from the base of the stem, forming a tidy clump that further accentuates the visual appeal of the blossoms held above on sturdy stalks. Taken together, the blooms, foliage, and overall form combine to create a delightful display typical of spring, embodying the cheer and renewal that this season represents. Narcissus 'Nessa' adds charm to any garden space and is popular for its delightful flowers that are often associated with the early days of spring.
About this plant
- Names
Family
Amaryllidaceae.
Synonyms
Daffodil, Jonquil.
Common names
Narcissus 'Nessa'
- Toxicity
To humans
The Narcissus 'Nessa', popularly known as the daffodil, is toxic to humans. All parts of the plant, especially the bulb, contain toxic alkaloids such as lycorine. If ingested, it can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Severe poisoning could lead to cardiac arrhythmias, hypotension, convulsions, and in extreme cases, even death.
To pets
The daffodil is also toxic to pets. The ingestion of any part of the plant, particularly the bulbs, can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, salivation, diarrhea, convulsions, low blood pressure, tremors, and cardiac arrhythmias. In severe cases, it can result in significant gastrointestinal upset, potentially causing dehydration and secondary complications, or more serious systemic effects which may be life-threatening.
- Characteristics
Life cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1 foot 4 inches (40 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Europe
Benefits
- General Benefits
- Ornamental Value: Narcissus 'Nessa', commonly known as Daffodil 'Nessa', offers aesthetic appeal with its bright and cheerful flowers, enhancing the beauty of gardens and landscapes.
- Spring Indicator: Daffodils are among the first flowers to bloom in the spring, signaling the end of winter and the beginning of the growing season.
- Easy to Grow: Daffodil 'Nessa' is known for being easy to cultivate and can thrive in a variety of soil types, making it a good choice for novice gardeners.
- Perennial Growth: As a perennial, Daffodil 'Nessa' returns year after year, providing a long-term addition to gardens without the need for replanting annually.
- Minimal Maintenance: The plant requires relatively low maintenance, only needing occasional watering and fertilization to perform well.
- Pest Resistant: Daffodils are naturally resistant to many pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical treatments in the garden.
- Deer and Rodent Resistant: The bulbs and flowers of Daffodils are generally not favored by deer and rodents, which helps to prevent damage to the plant and other nearby vegetation.
- Attracts Pollinators: The bright flowers of Daffodil 'Nessa' can attract beneficial pollinators like bees to the garden, which are essential for the pollination of many plants.
- Symbolic Meaning: Daffodils, including 'Nessa', have a rich cultural history and are often associated with rebirth and new beginnings, making them a popular choice for celebrations and as gifts.
- Multiplies over Time: Daffodil 'Nessa' has the ability to naturalize and multiply, filling garden spaces with greater numbers of flowers over the years.
- Variety of Uses: The flowers of the Daffodil 'Nessa' can be used in cut flower arrangements, borders, rock gardens, and container plantings, offering versatility in landscaping.
- Medical Properties
This plant is not used for medical purposes.
- Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
- Other Uses
- Dye Production: The petals of the daffodil can be used to create a natural yellow dye for textiles or crafts.
- Pest Repellant: Daffodils contain alkaloids that are toxic to certain rodents and pests, making them useful for naturally protecting other plants in gardens.
- Fragrance Extraction: The scent of daffodils can be captured through enfleurage, yielding an oil used in perfumery.
- Companion Planting: Daffodils can be used as companion plants to deter deer and rabbits from nibbling on nearby desirable vegetables or flowers.
- Photography: Daffodils, with their striking appearance, are commonly used as subjects for botanical photography and art.
- Symbolic Decoration: Daffodils can be used in events and celebrations as a symbol of renewal and new beginnings, especially in spring decor.
- Culinary Garnish: While not edible, daffodil blooms can be utilized as non-toxic decorative garnishes for plating and presenting dishes.
- Crafting: Dried daffodil petals and bulbs can be incorporated into paper-making or potpourri.
- Teaching Aid: Daffodils can be used in educational settings to explain plant biology, especially bulbous growth cycles and spring blooming.
- Memory Gardens: Since daffodils are associated with memory and reflection, they are often planted in memory gardens as a tribute to loved ones.
Interesting Facts
- Feng Shui
The Narcissus is considered auspicious in Feng Shui as it is believed to bring good fortune and prosperity. To use it according to Feng Shui principles, place it in the wealth area of your home or office, commonly the southeast section, to attract abundance. It can also be placed in the front entrance to welcome positive energy.
- Zodiac Sign Compitability
The Narcissus is not used in astrology practice.
- Plant Symbolism
- Rebirth and New Beginnings: As one of the first flowers to bloom in spring, the daffodil, which Narcissus 'Nessa' is a variety of, represents renewal and the start of a new cycle of growth and opportunities.
- Egoism and Vanity: The plant gets its name from the Greek myth of Narcissus, who fell in love with his own reflection. Therefore, it symbolizes excessive self-love and narcissism.
- Unrequited Love: Also stemming from the Narcissus myth, where his self-obsession led to his death, daffodils can represent love that is not reciprocated.
- Inspiration: Daffodils are sometimes associated with creativity and artistic inspiration, possibly because their bright appearance in spring can be an uplifting sight that stirs the imagination.
- Forgiveness: In some traditions, daffodils are given as a sign of forgiveness or in an apology, as the flower's bright disposition can be seen as a symbol of a desire to be at peace and move past disputes.
- Respect: Daffodils convey a message of respect and can be given to show admiration for someone's talent or abilities, acknowledging their worth and contributions.
- Prosperity: Because they bloom around the time of the Chinese New Year, daffodils are also symbolic of good fortune, prosperity, and good luck in some cultures, especially in Chinese and East Asian traditions.
- Water
Daffodils, including the 'Nessa' variety, prefer evenly moist soil without being waterlogged. During the growing season, water the bulbs deeply once a week, providing about 1 inch of water which equates to about 0.6 gallons per square yard. After flowering, reduce watering as the foliage begins to die back and the bulbs enter dormancy. It's critical to avoid overwatering as it can cause bulb rot.
- Light
Daffodils thrive in full sunlight to partial shade. Provide the 'Nessa' daffodil with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, positioning them in a spot where they can enjoy the morning sun with some afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates. Adequate light ensures healthy blooms and vigorous growth.
- Temperature
Daffodils, such as 'Nessa', generally do well in a wide range of temperatures but prefer a temperate climate. They can survive winter cold down to 10°F and are comfortable during the blooming period with temperatures between 50°F and 70°F. It's best to plant them in an area that doesn't experience extreme temperature fluctuations for optimal growth.
- Pruning
Pruning daffodils is mainly about deadheading the spent flowers, which encourages the plant to send energy to the bulb rather than seed production. Do this once the flowers fade but leave the foliage intact until it turns yellow and wilts, which is typically 6 weeks after blooming. Pruning daffodils isn't required for plant health, but for aesthetic purposes.
- Cleaning
As needed
- Soil
Daffodils prefer well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0. An ideal soil mix can be made by combining loamy garden soil with compost and a handful of sand to improve drainage.
- Repotting
Daffodils generally do not require frequent repotting and can be left undisturbed for several years. Repot only if the bulbs become overcrowded, usually every 3 to 5 years.
- Humidity & Misting
Daffodils tolerate average humidity levels and do not require any special humidity adjustments.
- Suitable locations
Indoor
Ensure bright light, cool temps, and minimal watering.
Outdoor
Plant in well-draining soil, full sun, before frost.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
- Life cycle
Narcissus 'Nessa', commonly known as daffodil, begins its life cycle as a bulb planted in well-drained soil during the fall, before the first frost. The bulb remains dormant through the winter, utilizing stored nutrients. In early spring, with the onset of milder weather and increased daylight, the bulb breaks dormancy, sending up shoots that develop into stems and leaves. The daffodil then blooms, producing its characteristic yellow or white flowers, which can be pollinated by insects, leading to the formation of seeds. Once flowering is complete, the plant begins to die back, with the foliage yellowing and dying by late spring or early summer; during this time, the bulb absorbs nutrients to store for the next season. The plant remains dormant through the summer and the cycle repeats, with the daffodil re-emerging the following spring.
- Propogation
Propogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Narcissus 'Nessa', commonly referred to as daffodil, is typically propagated through division, which is the separation of its bulb clusters. This process is best done in the late summer to early fall once the foliage has died back. Gardeners should carefully lift the bulbs out of the ground, gently separate them from the main clump, and replant them at a depth of about 6 inches (15 centimeters) with ample spacing to allow for growth. It is important to handle the bulbs carefully to prevent damage and ensure that each section has at least one growing point to develop into a new plant. After replanting, watering the bulbs thoroughly will help them establish in their new location.