Double Daffodil Narcissus pseudonarcissus 'Plenus' (4)
ABOUT
This plant, commonly known as the double daffodil, is a perennial with a charming and appealing appearance. Bearing a striking resemblance to the traditional daffodil, what sets the double daffodil apart are its blooms. The flowers are voluptuous and layered, with multiple rows of petals creating a ruffled and lush look, compared to the single-layered petals of a typical daffodil. The petals themselves are often a creamy white to a soft yellow, enveloping a center that is usually a deeper orange or yellow, giving a delightful contrast that adds to the depth and richness of the bloom. These opulent flowers are not shy in display; they are showy, with each bloom inviting admiration for its intricate and dense petal arrangement. Green, strap-like leaves support the opulent flowers, creating a fresh and vibrant backdrop that accentuates the beauty of the blooms. The foliage, while somewhat understated, balances the showiness of the flowers and anchors the plant elegantly in its setting. The double daffodil radiates a romantic, antique charm that is often associated with old-world gardens and lush spring growth.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae
Synonyms
Double Daffodil, Double Lent Lily, Garden Daffodil, Wild Daffodil, Tenby Daffodil
Common names
Narcissus 'Plenus', Narcissus 'Van Sion', Narcissus 'Telemonius Plenus', Narcissus 'Double Campernelle', Narcissus 'Butter and Eggs'
ToxicityTo humans
Daffodil is the common name for Narcissus pseudonarcissus 'Plenus'. All parts of the daffodil plant are considered toxic to humans if ingested. The primary toxicants are lycorine and other alkaloids, which are present in the bulb more than in other parts of the plant. Symptoms of daffodil poisoning may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to more serious effects such as cardiac arrhythmias, low blood pressure, tremors, or seizures. Handling the bulb can also cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
To pets
Daffodil is the common name for Narcissus pseudonarcissus 'Plenus'. This plant is toxic to pets, including cats and dogs, if ingested. The toxic components are alkaloids such as lycorine, predominantly found in the bulbs but also present in the leaves and flowers. Signs of daffodil poisoning in pets may include vomiting, salivation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, heart rhythm abnormalities, and possibly tremors or seizures. Serious cases can result in respiratory depression and could be fatal if not treated promptly. Therefore, it is important to keep daffodils out of reach of pets.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1 foot 4-16 inches (30-40 cm)
Spread
0 foot 6 inches (15 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Adds aesthetic appeal to gardens with its unique double flowers.
- Early Spring Bloomer: One of the first plants to flower in spring, signaling the end of winter.
- Attracts Pollinators: Provides nectar for bees and other pollinating insects early in the season.
- Easy to Grow: Adaptable to a variety of soil types and growing conditions, making it suitable for many gardens.
- Naturalizing: Can spread over time to create natural drifts of color in the landscape.
- Cut Flower: Suitable for bouquets and floral arrangements because of its long stems and attractive blooms.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Narcissus pseudonarcissus 'Plenus', commonly known as the double daffodil, can serve as a natural pest repellent. Planting them around the garden may help deter rodents like mice and voles that tend to avoid the bulbs due to their toxicity.
- The blooms can be used as a non-toxic dye for fabrics, granting a range of yellow hues depending on the mordant used. It provides an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic dyes.
- The fibrous leaves of the double daffodil can be used in traditional handcrafts, such as weaving small baskets or making paper, as they provide a strong natural fiber.
- Double daffodil bulbs can be utilized as a natural glue. When crushed, the sticky sap can act as an adhesive for small items.
- These flowers can be pressed and included in botanical art or herbarium collections for educational purposes, illustrating plant morphology and biodiversity.
- The bright and showy flowers of the double daffodil can be floated in bowls of water to create decorative centerpieces for events and celebrations.
- As an inspiration for perfumery, although the double daffodil itself is not commonly used in fragrance production, its scent profile can inspire synthetic or alternative natural fragrances.
- When dried and crushed, the petals can be used to create a natural potpourri, serving as a room freshener with a mild fragrance.
- Double daffodil flowers can be incorporated into art projects, such as in resin jewelry or encapsulation, preserving their beauty in a wearable form.
- The plant’s blooms can be used in photography as a natural prop or subject to capture the essence of spring and symbolize themes of rebirth and new beginnings.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Double Daffodil is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Double Daffodil is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Self-love: Named after the Greek mythological character, Narcissus, who fell in love with his own reflection, this plant often symbolizes vanity and excessive self-love.
- Renewal: As a herald of spring, the daffodil, which is the most common name of Narcissus pseudonarcissus 'Plenus', signifies new beginnings and the end of winter.
- Unrequited love: Another theme from the myth of Narcissus is the idea of love not returned, making the daffodil a symbol of unrequited love.
- Prosperity: The daffodil's bright and cheerful bloom is also a symbol of wealth and success.
WaterThe Double Daffodil requires moderate watering, especially during the growing season in spring. Water the plant deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. An average of 1 inch of water per week including rainfall is adequate. Over-watering can lead to bulb rot, so ensure the soil has good drainage. During the dormant period after flowering, reduce watering significantly. Supply about 1-2 gallons of water per square yard every week during active growth, tapering off as the foliage begins to die back.
LightDouble Daffodils thrive in full sunlight to partial shade. They perform best when planted in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. A spot that offers morning sunlight and afternoon shade would be ideal, as the intense heat of late afternoon can stress the plant during the hottest months. Avoid deep shade areas as this can impede flower production.
TemperatureDouble Daffodils are hardy and can withstand winter temperatures as low as 15°F. They prefer a temperate climate and grow best in regions with a cold dormancy period. The ideal temperature range for these plants is between 50°F and 70°F during their growing season. High temperatures above 90°F can cause stress to the plant and may impact flowering.
PruningPruning Double Daffodils is generally not necessary aside from deadheading spent flowers to encourage future blooms. After blooming, allow the foliage to die back naturally rather than cutting it down, as the leaves replenish the bulb for the next year. Trim off only the dead or yellowed leaves and spent flower stalks. The best time for this minimal pruning is late spring or early summer, after the plant has finished flowering and the foliage starts to turn yellow.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDouble Daffodil requires well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of loam, sand, and compost is ideal, providing both nutrients and proper drainage. To aid growth, incorporate a low-nitrogen, high-potassium fertilizer before planting.
RepottingDouble Daffodils generally do not need to be repotted annually; they can be left undisturbed for several years. Repotting is usually done every 3 to 5 years, or when the bulbs become crowded and flowering diminishes.
Humidity & MistingDouble Daffodils are not particularly humidity-sensitive and can thrive in the average humidity levels found in a typical outdoor garden setting.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, cool temps, and plant in well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant bulbs in autumn, full sun to partial shade, in well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Narcissus pseudonarcissus 'Plenus', also known as the double daffodil, begins its life cycle as a bulb, which remains dormant underground through the winter months. In early spring, environmental cues such as warmer temperatures and increased daylight trigger the bulb to sprout, leading to the emergence of leaves and a flower stalk. Shortly after, the distinctive double flowers bloom, showcasing a bright yellow color and a full, ruffled appearance characteristic of this cultivar. Following pollination, which is often facilitated by insects, the plant may produce seeds, but propagation typically occurs through bulb division. As the flowering period ends, the plant's above-ground foliage dies back, allowing the bulb to store energy for the next growing season. The cycle repeats annually, with the bulb lying dormant again during the colder months until the conditions are favorable for regrowth.
PropogationPropogation time
Early spring
The most popular method of propagating the Daffodil 'Plenus' is through division of its bulbs. This is typically done in the late summer to early fall, once the foliage has died back and the plant is dormant. Gardeners should carefully dig around the clump of daffodils, lift the bulbs, and gently separate them. It's important not to pull them apart forcefully as that can damage the bulbs. Each separated bulb can then be replanted immediately at a depth of about 6 inches (15 centimeters), allowing the roots to establish before the onset of winter. This straightforward approach encourages the growth of new plants that will bloom in the following spring.
