Daffodil Narcissus 'Oxford Gold' (10)
ABOUT
Narcissus 'Oxford Gold' is a vibrant flower known commonly as the daffodil. It features a rich golden-yellow hue across its petals. Resembling a trumpet, the central cup of the flower is a deeper shade of gold and stands out distinctly from the surrounding petals, which are often slightly paler. These petals are typically arranged in a star-like fashion seen when you look directly into the flower, with the central trumpet protruding forward. The leaves of the daffodil 'Oxford Gold' are thin and long, with a dark green color that provides a contrasting backdrop to the bright flowers. These linear foliage blades arch gracefully, emanating from the base of the stem and adding to the plant's overall aesthetic. The daffodil generally blooms in the spring, signaling the end of winter with its brightly colored flowers. The overall disposition of the plant is one of cheer and vibrancy, often associated with the renewal and vitality that comes with its blooming season.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Daffodil, Jonquil, Narcissus
Common names
Narcissus 'Oxford Gold'
ToxicityTo humans
The common name for Narcissus 'Oxford Gold' is Daffodil. Daffodils are toxic to humans if ingested. They contain toxic alkaloids such as lycorine and other compounds that can cause a variety of symptoms upon ingestion. Symptoms of daffodil poisoning include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to cardiac arrhythmias, convulsions, and even rare cases of death, particularly with large amounts consumed. Handling the bulbs may also cause skin irritation due to the presence of calcium oxalate crystals, and the plant's sap can sometimes cause dermatitis. It is strongly advised to keep daffodils out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion.
To pets
The common name for Narcissus 'Oxford Gold' is Daffodil. Daffodils are toxic to pets, particularly cats and dogs. The plant contains lycorine and other alkaloids that can cause poisoning if any part of the plant, especially the bulbs, is ingested. Symptoms of daffodil poisoning in pets can include vomiting, salivation, diarrhea, convulsions, low blood pressure, tremors, and cardiac arrhythmias. Serious cases can be fatal if not treated promptly. It is important for pet owners to ensure their animals do not have access to daffodils, either indoors or in garden spaces.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1-1.5 feet (30-45 cm)
Spread
0.5 feet (15 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Low Maintenance: Narcissus 'Oxford Gold' is relatively easy to care for, requiring minimal upkeep once established.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, they can withstand periods of low water availability.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers can attract bees and other pollinators, which are beneficial for the garden ecosystem.
- Spring Color: Provides vibrant yellow blooms that can brighten up any spring garden landscape.
- Naturalizing: They have the ability to spread and naturalize in an area, gradually increasing in number over time.
- Deer and Rodent Resistance: Generally resistant to deer and rodents, which often leave daffodils undisturbed.
- Long Bloom Period: They tend to have a long flowering period in the spring.
- Easy to Propagate: Can be easily propagated through bulb division, allowing gardeners to increase their stock.
- Seasonal Interest: Adds seasonal interest to gardens and landscapes when other plants may not be in bloom.
- Adaptable: Can thrive in a variety of soil types as long as there is good drainage.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography Prop: The vibrant yellow blooms of daffodils provide a gorgeous backdrop or subject for garden photographers and can be used in macro photography to capture exquisite details.
- Easter Decorations: Daffodils, symbolizing rebirth and new beginnings, are commonly used as part of Easter floral arrangements or table settings.
- Artistic Inspiration: The bright color and unique shape of daffodils have inspired many painters and artists to include them in floral paintings and spring-themed art pieces.
- Perfume Industry: Although not typically known for their scent, daffodils can be used to create exotic and rare fragrances in the niche perfume industry.
- Culinary Garnish: While the plant is toxic and should not be consumed, the flowers can be used as a non-edible garnish to enhance the presentation of spring dishes, after ensuring they don't come into contact with the food.
- Fabric Dye: The daffodil's flowers and petals can be used to produce a natural dye for fabrics, yielding soft yellow hues.
- Fairy Gardens: Miniature daffodil varieties can be planted in fairy gardens for whimsical landscape designs that appeal to children and adults who enjoy fantastical gardening.
- Marking the Passing Seasons: Daffodils are often used in gardens to visually indicate the transition from winter to spring, as they are one of the first flowers to bloom.
- Education Tools: Daffodils can be used by educators to teach children about plant biology, life cycles, and the importance of taking care of living things.
- Special Events and Occasions: Fresh or silk daffodil flowers are frequently used in decorations for events like weddings and spring festivals to add a cheerful and vibrant touch.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Narcissus, known for its bright trumpet-like flowers, symbolizes good fortune, prosperity, and renewal in Feng Shui. Place the Narcissus in the wealth area of your home or office, usually the southeast corner, to enhance positive energy and bring about new opportunities for financial success.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Narcissus is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Renewal and New Beginnings: The Narcissus, commonly known as the Daffodil, often blooms in early spring, symbolizing the end of winter and the arrival of new growth and beginnings.
- Self-Reflection: Named after the Greek myth of Narcissus, who became obsessed with his own reflection, Daffodils can represent self-awareness and the importance of recognizing oneself.
- Prosperity: In some cultures, Daffodils are believed to bring good fortune and are associated with wealth and prosperity.
- Inspiration: The bright and cheery appearance of Daffodils is often seen as a source of creativity and inspiration to others.
- Forgiveness: The gentle nature of the Daffodil has made it a symbol for forgiveness and an encouragement to let go of past hurts.
- Vanity: Drawing from the story of Narcissus, the Daffodil can also serve as a reminder of the dangers of vanity and excessive self-love.
- Uncertainty: The Daffodil's nodding head can be seen as a symbol of uncertainty or hesitation, portraying a delicate balance in decision-making.
- Hope: Often one of the first flowers to bloom, Daffodils represent hope and the promise of the future, especially after a long and dark winter.
- Respect: In some cultures, presenting a Daffodil to someone is a sign of deep respect and high regard for the individual.
- Chivalry: The Daffodil is sometimes associated with noble or chivalrous actions, as it stands out brightly but humbly in the spring garden.
WaterDaffodils, including 'Oxford Gold', thrive when they receive consistent moisture, especially while they are actively growing and blooming. After planting the bulbs in fall, there's usually no need to water them unless the weather is extremely dry, thanks to fall rains. During the active growing season in spring, water them thoroughly once a week if there is no significant rainfall, using about one gallon of water per square foot of soil. Once the daffodils have finished blooming, you can cut back on watering as they enter dormancy. Always ensure that the soil drains well to prevent bulb rot.
LightDaffodils, such as 'Oxford Gold', prefer full sunlight to light shade. The best spot for planting these daffodils is an area that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. If planted in too much shade, the flowers may not perform well, and the stems may stretch and flop over.
TemperatureDaffodils, including the 'Oxford Gold', are hardy and can survive winter temperatures down to about -20 degrees Fahrenheit. However, they perform best when they are grown in temperatures ranging from 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit during their growth and blooming phase. The maximum temperature they can comfortably endure is up to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
PruningPruning daffodils such as 'Oxford Gold' is more about deadheading and removing spent flowers to maintain a tidy appearance and prevent the plant from expending energy on seed production. However, you should not cut the leaves back until they have yellowed and withered, typically around six to eight weeks after blooming. Prune the spent flowers immediately after they wither, but allow the foliage to remain until it's ready to be removed.
CleaningNot needed
SoilDaffodils like well-drained soil; a mix of loam, sand, and compost is ideal. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingDaffodils typically do not need to be repotted often; repotting every 3 to 5 years is sufficient.
Humidity & MistingDaffodils prefer average humidity levels and do not require any special humidity considerations.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place daffodils in bright, indirect light indoors.
Outdoor
Plant in sunny spot; allow space for adequate drainage.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of a Daffodil 'Oxford Gold' begins with a period of dormancy, where the bulb lies inactive beneath the soil surface, often during the warmer months. As the temperature drops in autumn, roots start to develop from the base of the bulb. With the onset of winter and early spring, foliage emerges from the bulb as green straps, followed by the iconic yellow trumpet-shaped flowers. After blooming, the plant enters a post-flowering growth phase where the leaves photosynthesize to replenish the bulb's energy reserves. Once the leaves yellow and wither, the plant returns to dormancy, conserving energy within the bulb. This cycle repeats annually, with the bulb potentially producing offsets for new plants and flowers year after year.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method for propagating Narcissus 'Oxford Gold', commonly known as Daffodil, is through bulb division. This process typically takes place in the fall, after the leaves have died back and the plant has gone dormant. To propagate, carefully dig up the bulbs and gently separate the offsets, which are smaller bulbs attached to the base of the mother bulb. These offsets can be replanted immediately at a depth approximately thrice the height of the bulb, usually 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters), and spaced about 6 inches (15 centimeters) apart to allow for growth. Care must be taken not to damage the main bulb or the tender offset bulbs during division, ensuring successful growth in the next flowering season.
