Daffodil Narcissus 'Papua' (4)
ABOUT
The Narcissus 'Papua' is a striking plant known for its beautiful blossoms that are typical of the daffodil family, to which it belongs. The flowers boast a prominent central trumpet surrounded by a star-shaped arrangement of petals. This trumpet is often a vivid contrast in color to the softer hues of the outer petals, creating an eye-catching focal point. These blooms emerge from a dark green, strap-like foliage that forms a lush base for the flowers. Each stem typically holds a singular bloom that faces outward or slightly upward, displaying its ornate beauty. The petals themselves are smooth and may possess a slight sheen, contributing to the plant's overall charming aesthetic. The colors of the Narcissus 'Papua' are especially alluring, with the petals usually displaying a warm yellow, white, or orange, while the trumpet may showcase a deeper, more intense shade of these colors. The plant has a symmetrical form, and its foliage is long, slender, and upright, providing an elegant background for the blooming display. The Narcissus 'Papua', with its enchanting flowers, is a welcomed harbinger of spring, offering a burst of color that signifies the arrival of the warmer season. It's commonly used in gardens and landscaping to create visual interest through its delightful blossoms and is also popular for cut flower arrangements due to its appealing floral structure.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae.
Synonyms
Daffodil, Jonquil, Narcissus.
Common names
Narcissus 'Papua'
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as daffodil is toxic to humans. Ingesting any part of the plant, particularly the bulb, can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and even more severe reactions such as cardiac arrhythmias or respiratory depression in extreme cases. Handling the plant may cause skin irritation in some individuals.
To pets
Daffodils are toxic to pets, including both cats and dogs. If a pet ingests any part of a daffodil, especially the bulbs, they may exhibit symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, hypersalivation, drooling, and potentially more severe signs like heart rhythm abnormalities, low blood pressure, tremors, or seizures. Immediate veterinary attention is recommended if a pet ingests this plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Spread
0.5-1 feet (0.15-0.3 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: The Narcissus 'Papua', commonly known as daffodil, adds vibrant color and aesthetic beauty to gardens with its unique and striking flower appearance.
- Easy Cultivation: Daffodils are known for being easy to grow, requiring minimal maintenance, which makes them suitable for both experienced and novice gardeners.
- Perennial Growth: As a perennial, the daffodil returns each year, offering a long-term addition to gardens without the need for annual replanting.
- Pest Resistance: Daffodils are naturally resistant to many pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments and making them a good choice for organic gardening practices.
- Cold Hardiness: Adapted to colder climates, daffodils are capable of withstanding frost and can bloom early in the spring, often pushing through snow.
- Wildlife Attraction: Daffodils can attract pollinators like bees to the garden, promoting biodiversity and aiding in the pollination of other plants.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As natural dye: The petals of daffodils can be used to create a yellow dye for fabrics.
- In perfumery: The essential oils of daffodils can be used as fragrance components in perfumes and scented products.
- As a pest repellent: The bulbs, when planted, can deter rodents and deer because of their toxic properties, keeping gardens free from grazing animals.
- For flower arrangements: Daffodils can be used in cut flower arrangements as a symbol of renewal, especially in spring.
- Photography subject: Daffodils, with their striking appearance, are often used as subjects in nature photography and art classes.
- In festivals: Daffodils can be featured in spring festivals and celebrations as a herald of the changing season.
- Amateur plant breeding: Garden enthusiasts can use daffodil varieties like 'Papua' to try and breed new, unique varieties for personal or commercial use.
- In literature and art: Symbolically used in literature, poetry, and artwork to represent themes of vanity or unrequited love.
- For educational purposes: Daffodils can be used in biology classes to teach about plant life cycles, reproduction, and bulb growth.
- Eco-friendly burial options: Daffodil bulbs can be planted on graves as an environmentally friendly alternative to cut flowers, as they will regrow each year.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Narcissus is used in Feng Shui to attract good fortune and prosperity. It is often placed in the wealth area of a home or business, which is typically the southeast corner of the space, to enhance the energy of abundance. The blossoming of the Narcissus is believed to bring new opportunities and success, making it an auspicious plant for starting new ventures or for inviting positive growth into one's life.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Narcissus is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Renewal and New Beginnings: Narcissus often blooms in early spring, symbolizing the end of winter and the arrival of a fresh start with the new season.
- Vanity or Self-Obsession: Named after the mythological character Narcissus, who fell in love with his own reflection, this flower can represent self-centeredness.
- Hope: The Narcissus is a sign of hope, as its hardiness and ability to return each spring reflects the idea of overcoming challenges.
- Prosperity: In some traditions, particularly during Chinese New Year, the Narcissus is associated with wealth and good fortune.
WaterDaffodils, including the Narcissus 'Papua', typically need watering once a week, with adjustments made for rainfall and climate conditions. During the growing season, give them approximately 1 inch of water weekly, particularly if the weather is dry. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged. It's best to water daffodils early in the day so the foliage can dry out before nighttime. Overwatering can lead to bulb rot, so ensure the planting area has good drainage.
LightDaffodils thrive in areas with full sun to partial shade. They perform best when they receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. A spot that receives morning sunlight and some afternoon shade can be ideal, especially in hotter climates, to protect the daffodils from intense heat.
TemperatureDaffodils prefer moderate climates and are hardy in a range of temperatures. They can tolerate winter cold and can generally survive temperatures down to about 5°F. Ideally, they flourish in daytime temperatures between 50°F and 70°F. Excessive heat, especially during the active growing season, can be detrimental, so avoid planting them in areas that consistently experience temperatures above 80°F.
PruningDaffodils generally do not require extensive pruning, but it's beneficial to remove spent flower heads after blooming to prevent seed production, which can divert energy from bulb growth. However, leave the foliage in place until it has died back naturally, which typically takes about six weeks after flowering. Prune yellow or dead leaves only, as the leaves are needed to produce energy for the next year's blooming.
CleaningNot needed
SoilDaffodil 'Papua' thrives in well-draining soil with ample organic matter, such as a mix of loam, sand, and peat. A slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.0 and 7.0 is ideal.
RepottingDaffodils, including 'Papua', generally do not need frequent repotting and can be left undisturbed for several years. They should be repotted only when they become overcrowded, about every 3 to 5 years.
Humidity & MistingDaffodil 'Papua' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity conditions and does not require specific humidity levels to thrive, making it suitable for average home environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light; keep soil moderately moist.
Outdoor
Plant in well-drained soil; full to partial sun exposure.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA.
Life cycleThe life cycle of the Narcissus 'Papua', commonly known as Daffodil, begins with a dormant bulb which breaks dormancy to sprout and form leaves and a stem when conditions are favourable, typically in early spring. The plant then develops a flower bud that blossoms into a single, striking flower with a central corona surrounded by petal-like tepals. After pollination, typically by insects attracted to the flower, the Daffodil produces a seed capsule that, when ripe, releases seeds to potentially grow into new plants. The foliage dies back after flowering as the plant enters a period of dormancy through the summer, conserving energy in the bulb. In autumn, the bulb may divide, creating offsets that can be separated and planted to propagate new plants. This cycle repeats annually, with bulbs able to survive and bloom for many years.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Narcissus 'Papua', commonly known as Daffodil 'Papua', is typically propagated through division of bulbs since this is the most popular method for this plant. This type of propagation is typically carried out in the late summer to early fall, after the foliage has died back, indicating that the plant has gone dormant. To propagate through bulb division, you should carefully dig up the clump of daffodil bulbs and gently separate them into individual bulbs. Each bulb should have a portion of the base and some roots attached. After the division, replant the bulbs immediately at a depth of about 6 inches (15 centimeters) and space them approximately 3 to 6 inches (7.5 to 15 centimeters) apart to provide enough room for the new growth. Water the newly planted bulbs well to encourage root development before the cold winter sets in. This simple vegetative propagation ensures genetic consistency and is very effective for increasing the stock of Daffodil 'Papua'.
