Daffodil Narcissus 'Passionale' (2)
ABOUT
Narcissus 'Passionale', commonly known as a daffodil, is a delightful flowering plant that displays vibrant and striking blooms. Its flowers are characterized by a rich, golden-yellow hue that is especially luminous. The trumpet-shaped central corona of the daffodil's flower is exceptionally prominent, surrounded by a circle of petal-like tepals that are often a slightly paler shade of yellow, creating a lovely contrast. Each of the flower's petals is smooth and slightly oblong, coming together in a harmonious spread that is typical of daffodils. This gives the flower a classic daffodil appearance that is both elegant and eye-catching. The flowers are carried on sturdy, upright stems that rise above the plant's base and tend to lean slightly forward, as if nodding in the breeze. The foliage of Narcissus 'Passionale' is also quite distinct. It has long, sword-shaped leaves that are a deep green color, providing a lush backdrop for the luminous flowers. The leaves emerge from the base of the plant and typically remain close to the ground, forming a tufted cluster that adds to the plant's overall visual appeal. The contrast between the bright flowers and the rich green leaves is especially pleasing to the eye. Overall, Narcissus 'Passionale' is a plant that perfectly encapsulates the lively spirit of spring with its delightful yellow blooms, reminiscent of sunshine and cheerfulness, and is sure to be a standout in any setting where it is grown.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Daffodil, Jonquil, Narcissus
Common names
Narcissus 'Passionale'
ToxicityTo humans
The common name for Narcissus 'Passionale' is Daffodil. Daffodils contain toxic alkaloids such as lycorine and are poisonous if ingested by humans. Ingestion of any part of the plant can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In severe cases, daffodil poisoning can lead to dehydration, cardiac arrhythmias, and convulsions. Handling the bulbs can also cause skin irritation in some people.
To pets
Daffodils are toxic to pets. Ingesting any part of the plant can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, excessive salivation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, abnormal heart rhythms, and breathing difficulties. In severe cases, daffodil poisoning can cause major organ damage and could be fatal if not treated promptly.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1 feet 6 inches (45.72 centimeters)
Spread
0 feet 6 inches (15.24 centimeters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Narcissus 'Passionale', commonly known as Daffodil, adds vibrant yellow hues to gardens and landscapes, providing an early touch of spring color.
- Ease of Care: Daffodils are low-maintenance, requiring minimal care once established, making them suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, Daffodils can withstand periods of dry weather, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Pest Resistance: Daffodils are generally resistant to pests, reducing the need for chemical pesticides in the garden.
- Deer and Rodent Resistance: Daffodils are less appealing to deer and rodents compared to other bulbs, preventing them from being eaten by wildlife.
- Naturalizing: Daffodils have the ability to naturalize, or spread and multiply over time, creating denser displays of color with each passing year.
- Longevity: Daffodil bulbs can live for many years in the garden, providing a long-lasting planting investment.
- Forcing Ability: Daffodils can be "forced" to bloom indoors out of season, bringing their cheerful presence into the home during winter months.
- Non-Invasive: Daffodils are not considered invasive, growing only where planted and not displacing native plants.
- Cut Flower Use: Daffodils make delightful cut flowers, brightening indoor spaces with their fresh spring blooms.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Cut Flower Arrangements: Narcissus 'Passionale' is commonly used in floral arrangements due to its appealing color and form, making beautiful and fragrant bouquets.
- Photography Subjects: These flowers are popular among photographers for still life photography or as a part of picturesque garden landscapes.
- Wedding Decor: Owing to their elegant appearance, Narcissus 'Passionale' blooms can be used for decorating venues for weddings and other special occasions.
- Perfumery: Narcissus 'Passionale' flowers can be used to create fragrant essential oils or perfumes, though it is not as common due to the possible allergens.
- Art Inspiration: Many artists choose the Narcissus flower as a subject for their paintings or drawings due to its symbolic associations and beauty.
- Educational Tools: Botany students might study Narcissus 'Passionale' to learn about plant anatomy and reproductive systems.
- Dye Source: The petals and other parts of Narcissus 'Passionale' may be used to create natural dyes for fabrics or crafts, although other flowers are more commonly used for this purpose.
- Festivals and Celebrations: In some cultures, Narcissus flowers are incorporated in festivals or celebrations as symbols of rebirth and new beginnings because they are among the first to bloom in spring.
- Literature and Poetry: The Narcissus flower often features in literature and poetry, symbolizing a range of themes from vanity to unrequited love.
- Eco-friendly Confetti: Dried petals of Narcissus 'Passionale' can serve as a biodegradable option for confetti in celebrations, although this usage is not widely practiced.
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 Renewal: Narcissus flowers bloom in early spring, marking the end of winter and symbolizing new beginnings and the emergence of life after dormancy.
- Self-Love: Named after the Greek myth of Narcissus, they are often associated with narcissism and self-admiration, reflecting the myth's theme of self-obsession.
- Hope: Their bright blossoms bring a sense of hope and optimism, often representing the promise that good things are ahead.
- Pride: In some cultures, narcissus flowers symbolize pride, due to their upright bloom and the mythological connection to the character of Narcissus.
- Wealth and Prosperity: Especially in Chinese culture, the blooming of a narcissus is believed to bring wealth and good fortune, making it a popular flower during the Lunar New Year.
WaterDaffodils, such as Narcissus 'Passionale', should be watered thoroughly when the soil feels dry to the touch, which is typically once a week. It's crucial to avoid overwatering as daffodils do not like to sit in waterlogged soil. During their growing season, from fall to spring, they may require about one to two gallons of water per week depending upon soil type and climate conditions. Once they have finished flowering and their foliage begins to die back, reduce watering significantly to allow the bulbs to dry out.
LightDaffodils prefer full sun to partial shade. The ideal spot for Narcissus 'Passionale' would be in a location where they can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. However, they can still thrive in a bit of afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates.
TemperatureDaffodils are hardy flowers, and Narcissus 'Passionale' can survive winter lows to about -20°F. They perform best in a range of 50°F to 70°F during the growing season. However, they need a cold period of 35°F to 45°F to stimulate the bloom cycle for the following season.
PruningDaffodils such as Narcissus 'Passionale' should be deadheaded after flowering to prevent seed production, but leave the foliage intact to die back naturally. Prune the foliage only after it has yellowed and withered, which is typically 6-8 weeks after blooming. This process allows the bulbs to store energy for the next year's growth. Pruning is not required frequently, just annually after the bloom period.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Daffodil, also known as Narcissus 'Passionale', thrives in a soil mixture that is well-draining, fertile, and slightly acidic to neutral in pH, typically around 6.0 to 7.0. A good soil mix for daffodils can include parts of loamy garden soil, course sand, and well-rotted compost or manure to provide nutrients. It's crucial to ensure proper drainage to avoid bulb rot.
RepottingDaffodils, including the Narcissus 'Passionale', generally do not need to be repotted often. They can be left in the same spot for several years as long as they are not too crowded. Every 3 to 5 years, you may lift and divide the bulbs in the fall if clumps become dense or flowering diminishes.
Humidity & MistingModerate ambient humidity suits the Daffodil well. They do not require high humidity levels and can thrive in outdoor conditions where humidity naturally fluctuates. It's important to ensure good air circulation around the plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Daffodils in bright, indirect light and cool temperatures indoors.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade in well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleNarcissus 'Passionale', commonly known as 'Daffodil', begins its life cycle as a bulb planted in the fall before the first frost. The bulb remains dormant in the winter, conserving energy for the coming growth. In early spring, the bulb sends up green shoots, which develop into long, slender leaves and a flower stalk; the iconic yellow or white trumpet-shaped flower blossoms atop this stalk. After flowering, the plant enters a period of photosynthesis and nutrient accumulation, with the leaves continuing to gather energy for the bulb to use during its next growth cycle. As the foliage dies back in late spring or early summer, the daffodil returns to dormancy, with the bulb resting underground through the summer and once again into the fall. This annual cycle repeats, with the bulb dividing and potentially producing new bulbs over several years, spreading and increasing the plant population in the garden.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Autumn
The Narcissus 'Passionale', commonly known as the daffodil, can be effectively propagated through the division of its bulb clusters, typically after the flowers have died back which usually occurs in late spring or early summer. This process involves carefully digging up the clumps of daffodil bulbs and gently pulling them apart by hand to separate the individual bulbs. These individual bulbs, which may have smaller, offset bulbs or "bulblets" attached, are then replanted at a depth of about 6 inches (approximately 15 centimeters) and spaced roughly 3 to 6 inches (about 7.5 to 15 centimeters) apart to allow for enough room to grow. It is important to ensure that the pointy end of the bulb is facing upwards when replanting. Once re-planted, these bulbs will then take root and establish themselves over the summer, preparing to bloom the following spring.
