Daffodil Narcissus 'Penkivel' (2)
ABOUT
Narcissus 'Penkivel', commonly known as a variety of daffodil, is a visually striking plant that embodies the classic charm associated with these cheerful springtime flowers. This daffodil boasts a distinctive appearance with its bright and showy blooms. Each flower is characterized by a central corona, commonly referred to as the trumpet or cup, surrounded by a ring of elongated petals, often termed the perianth. The trumpet of Narcissus 'Penkivel' is particularly notable for its color, which can be a vibrant shade contrasting with the outer petals. These petals are generally a soft, creamy hue, which sets off the intense coloration of the trumpet, creating a captivating two-tone effect. The petals are usually arranged in a radial formation, spreading outwards and slightly back from the trumpet, giving the blossom a star-like quality. The foliage of 'Penkivel' is also typical of daffodils, where slender, sword-shaped leaves emerge from the base of the stem, providing a lush green backdrop that accentuates the brightness of the flowers. The leaves are smooth and can have a slightly arching habit, and their deep green color persists through the blooming season. Overall, Narcissus 'Penkivel' presents a charming and lively display with its vibrant flowers and contrasting trumpet and petal colors. As part of a garden or floral arrangement, these daffodils are no doubt an alluring sight that heralds the arrival of spring with their vivid colors and classic form.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae
Synonyms
Daffodil, Jonquil, Narcissus
Common names
Narcissus 'Penkivel'
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as daffodil is toxic to humans if ingested. All parts of the plant contain toxic alkaloids such as lycorine. Symptoms of poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to cardiac arrhythmias, convulsions, and even coma.
To pets
The daffodil is also toxic to pets. Ingesting any part of the plant, especially the bulbs, can cause symptoms such as vomiting, salivation, diarrhea, convulsions, low blood pressure, tremors, and cardiac arrhythmias. Severe poisoning can be fatal, so immediate veterinary care is crucial if ingestion is suspected.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1-1.5 feet (30-45 cm)
Spread
0.5-1 feet (15-30 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
4-9
Native area
Europe Western Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Narcissus 'Penkivel', commonly known as daffodil, brings vibrant colors to gardens and landscapes with its attractive flowers.
- Low Maintenance: Daffodils are known for being low maintenance, requiring minimal care once established in an appropriate location.
- Perennial Growth: Being a perennial plant, it returns year after year, adding long-term value to the garden.
- Cold Resistant: Daffodils are cold-hardy and can survive frost, making them suitable for a range of climates.
- Easy Propagation: They can be easily propagated through bulb division, increasing garden stock without additional cost.
- Pest Resistance: Daffodils have a natural resistance to many pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- Attracts Pollinators: They attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects, supporting the local ecosystem.
- Spring Indicator: Daffodils are often one of the first plants to bloom in spring, signaling the end of winter.
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: Daffodils, including Narcissus 'Penkivel', are popular choices for cut flower displays due to their bright colors and distinctive trumpet-shaped blooms, adding a touch of spring to any indoor setting.
- Photography subject: Daffodils are often photographed by nature enthusiasts and professional photographers, especially when they bloom en masse, creating striking visual displays in gardens and parks.
- Botanical studies: Botany students and horticulturalists may use Narcissus 'Penkivel' to study plant biology, flower structure, and breeding practices within the Narcissus genus.
- Eco-friendly dye: The petals of daffodils can be used to create a natural yellow dye for fabrics, although it is not a common practice due to the flower's ornamental value.
- Wedding decor: Daffodils can be used in wedding decorations, such as table centerpieces or bouquets, to symbolize new beginnings and true love.
- Garden competitions: Enthusiasts might grow Narcissus 'Penkivel' to enter into flower and garden competitions, showcasing their horticultural skills and the beauty of their specimens.
- Art inspiration: The distinctive look of the daffodil has been an inspiration for artists, poets, and craftsmen, leading to its depiction in various forms of art, from canvas to crafts.
- Spring festivals: In some regions, the blooming of daffodils is celebrated with festivals and events, and Narcissus 'Penkivel' could be one of the varieties showcased.
- Teaching tool: Educators might use daffodils to teach children about plant life cycles, pollination, and the changing seasons, especially during springtime.
- Perfumery: While not commonly used in perfumery, the essence of daffodils can be captured and used to create bespoke, delicate fragrances for those who seek unique scents.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant known as Narcissus or daffodil is associated with good fortune and is believed to attract wealth and prosperity when placed in the home or office, specifically in the wealth corner, which is the southeast area of a space.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Narcissus, or daffodil, is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Self-love: The Narcissus is often associated with narcissism due to the Greek myth of Narcissus, a young man who fell in love with his own reflection.
- New beginnings: As one of the first flowers to bloom in spring, Narcissus symbolizes rebirth and new starts.
- Hope: Their early appearance brings hope that spring is near, symbolically ending the dormancy of winter.
- Wealth: In some cultures, Narcissus blossoms are believed to bring good fortune and wealth, particularly during the Chinese New Year.
- Uncertainty: The ephemeral nature of the flower, which blooms and fades quickly, can represent uncertainty or changeability.
- Respect: In certain Eastern traditions, the Narcissus is a symbol of respect and admiration for others.
WaterDaffodils, including the Narcissus 'Penkivel', require a consistent moisture level while they are actively growing and blooming. Water them thoroughly after planting and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. It is generally recommended to provide about 1 inch of water per week, either from rainfall or supplemental watering. This often equates to filling a watering can or using a hose on a gentle setting to deliver the water directly to the base of the plant, taking care not to soak the foliage to prevent fungal diseases. Once the daffodils have finished blooming and their foliage has begun to yellow, typically in late spring or early summer, you can reduce watering as they enter dormancy.
LightDaffodils thrive in an area that receives full sun to partial shade. Ideally, they should get at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. A spot that gets morning sunlight and some afternoon shade is typically perfect for daffodils to flourish without getting overheated, especially in warmer climates.
TemperatureDaffodils, including the Narcissus 'Penkivel', tolerate a wide range of temperatures and are cold hardy. They can survive short periods of temperatures below freezing and generally prefer a temperature range between 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth. Maximum temperatures for daffodils can be around 75 degrees Fahrenheit and they can survive minimal winter lows well below freezing, around 20 degrees Fahrenheit, when dormant.
PruningPruning daffodils is mainly about deadheading, which is the process of removing spent flowers. This should be done to maintain aesthetic appeal and prevent the plant from expending energy on seed production. Cut back the flower stalks after flowering, but leave the foliage in place until it turns yellow and withers, which is usually about 6 weeks later, as this allows the plant to gather energy for the next growing season. Daffodils do not require regular pruning aside from this post-blooming care.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for growing Daffodil 'Penkivel' is well-draining, moderately fertile, and slightly acidic to neutral soil with pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Amend the soil with plenty of organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve both drainage and nutrient content.
RepottingDaffodils, including the 'Penkivel' variety, typically do not require frequent repotting and are usually replanted every 3 to 5 years or when the bulbs become overcrowded.
Humidity & MistingDaffodil 'Penkivel' is adaptable to a wide range of humidity levels but thrives best in average humidity conditions typical of outdoor environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, cool conditions, and general care for Daffodil 'Penkivel' indoors.
Outdoor
Plant in well-drained soil, full sun to partial shade for Daffodil 'Penkivel'.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Narcissus 'Penkivel' (2), commonly known as Daffodil 'Penkivel', starts its life as a bulb, which lies dormant underground during the winter months. In early spring, the bulb initiates growth, sending up shoots and leaves that emerge above the soil. The plant continues its development by producing a flower stalk, which leads to a single flower or a cluster of flowers, depending on the variety, typically blooming in late winter to early spring. After flowering, the plant focuses on photosynthesis and energy storage, the leaves remaining green and functional for several weeks to gather nutrients for the bulb. Once the above-ground foliage dies back, usually by late spring or early summer, the bulb enters a period of dormancy, conserving energy for the next growing cycle. The cycle repeats annually, with the bulb regenerating and flowering each year.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
The Narcissus 'Penkivel', commonly known as a variety of daffodil, has a preferred propagation method of dividing and replanting the bulbs. The best time to carry out this process is after the foliage has died back and the plant has gone dormant, typically from late summer to fall. To propagate, carefully dig up the clumps of bulbs and gently separate the offsets from the mother bulb. These offsets, which are smaller bulbs attached to the base of the main bulb, can be planted right away. They should be planted about 6 inches (about 15 centimeters) deep and spaced at least 6 inches apart in well-draining soil with moderate sunlight. The offsets will spend the fall and winter developing roots, and come spring, they will emerge as new daffodil plants, ready to bloom in subsequent seasons.
