Daffodil Narcissus 'Quasar' (2)
ABOUT
The Narcissus 'Quasar', commonly known as a daffodil, is a distinctive flowering plant with a vibrant and striking appearance. The blooms of this particular cultivar are characterized by their large, showy flowers that have a unique coloration and pattern. The petals radiate outward in a star-like formation, typically a bright, sunny yellow which is a signature look of daffodils. At the center, the trumpet or corona of the Narcissus 'Quasar' is often a contrasting shade, possibly a deeper golden hue or an orange tint, which makes the flower stand out in the garden. The trumpet-like center is surrounded by a ring of six petal-like structures known as tepals. These are usually uniform in shape and size, giving a harmonious look to the flower head. The foliage of the daffodil is slender and long, with a deep green color that provides a perfect backdrop to the vivid flowers. The leaves arise from the base of the stem, creating a neat, linear and strap-like cluster that contrasts with the rounded shape of the flower. Together, the cheerful flowers and lush green foliage create an eye-catching display that heralds the arrival of spring. Each stem typically bears a single bloom, and the flowers have a tendency to face upwards towards the sky, inviting viewers to admire their full beauty. The overall appearance of the Narcissus 'Quasar' is one of grace and brightness, making it a popular choice for gardens, bouquets, and as a herald of the joyful season.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Daffodil, Jonquil, Narcissus
Common names
Narcissus 'Quasar'
ToxicityTo humans
Daffodil, including the Narcissus 'Quasar', is toxic to humans. The entire plant contains alkaloids such as lycorine, and ingestion can lead to symptoms including nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In severe cases, consuming large amounts of the plant, particularly the bulb, can lead to more serious effects such as cardiac arrhythmias, hypotension, tremors, convulsions, and potentially life-threatening complications.
To pets
Daffodil, including the Narcissus 'Quasar', is toxic to pets. The plant contains alkaloids, particularly lycorine, which can cause vomiting, salivation, diarrhea, convulsions, low blood pressure, tremors, and cardiac arrhythmias. Ingesting the bulbs, which contain the highest concentration of these compounds, can lead to more severe symptoms and may be life-threatening, requiring immediate veterinary attention.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Spread
1 feet (0.3 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal - Adds vibrant color and visual interest to gardens and landscapes with its striking blooms.
- Ease of Care - Generally low maintenance requiring minimal care once established.
- Drought Tolerance - Capable of surviving in dry conditions once it is well-established, making it suitable for water-wise gardens.
- Long Blooming - Offers a long season of blooms in the spring, providing extended enjoyment.
- Attracts Pollinators - Flowers can attract bees and other pollinators, supporting local ecosystems.
- Naturalizing - Has the ability to spread and naturalize an area over time, creating a fuller garden display.
- Deer Resistance - Typically resistant to deer, making it an ideal choice for gardens in areas with high deer populations.
- Cut Flowers - Suitable for cutting and using in floral arrangements due to their attractive blooms and long vase life.
- Symbolism - Often associated with rebirth and new beginnings, making them a meaningful choice for planting in commemorative spaces.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Daffodil 'Quasar' bulbs can be forced in indoor containers during winter months to enjoy their blooms out of season.
- Can serve as a natural pest repellent in gardens, as certain pests may avoid the area due to the toxicity of the plant.
- Helpful as a companion plant in vegetable gardens to deter rodents who avoid the toxic bulbs.
- Plant fibers from daffodil 'Quasar' can be used in the production of handmade paper, giving it a unique texture and appearance.
- Daffodil 'Quasar' flowers can be used in natural dyeing processes to achieve various shades of yellow on fabrics.
- As a subject in photography and painting, the daffodil 'Quasar' often serves as an inspiration for artists due to its striking appearance.
- In floristry, daffodil 'Quasar' is used in arrangements that cater to allergy sufferers as they are less likely to cause allergic reactions compared to other flowers.
- These flowers are used in educational settings to teach botany and horticulture, using their growth cycle and unique characteristics as study subjects.
- Dried daffodil 'Quasar' petals can be incorporated into potpourri mixes to add color and a light scent to the mixture.
- The daffodil 'Quasar' can be planted as part of eco-friendly landscaping to create habitats for pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant daffodil is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant daffodil is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Self-love: Named after Narcissus, the figure from Greek mythology who fell in love with his own reflection, this flower often symbolizes self-love and vanity.
- Rebirth: The Narcissus 'Quasar', being a type of daffodil, blooms in the spring and thus is commonly associated with renewal and the rebirth that comes with this season.
- New Beginnings: Its springtime blossoming also lends it to symbolize new beginnings or starting afresh.
- Prosperity: In some cultures, daffodils represent prosperity and are believed to bring good fortune, especially when they are the first to bloom in spring.
- Uncertainty: In the language of flowers, also known as floriography, the Narcissus can sometimes symbolize uncertainty or unrequited love, reflecting the myth of Narcissus who could not obtain the object of his desire.
WaterDaffodils, including the Narcissus 'Quasar', should be watered thoroughly at planting and regularly during active growth. They require about an inch of water per week, whether from rainfall or irrigation. It's crucial to avoid overwatering as daffodils are prone to rot in soggy soil. Once established, they are quite drought tolerant and watering can be reduced as they enter their dormant phase after blooming. Ideally, if there is no rain, soaking the soil with a gallon of water per square foot every week during their growth period is sufficient.
LightDaffodils perform best in full sun to partial shade. They thrive in an area that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Partially shaded areas are also acceptable, especially in regions with very hot afternoons where a bit of afternoon shade can protect them. Avoid deeply shaded areas where flowers may not bloom as vigorously.
TemperatureDaffodils are hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but they grow best when daytime temperatures are between 50°F and 70°F. They can survive brief periods of colder winter temperatures down to 20°F, however temperatures below this can damage the plant. Daffodils prefer cooler springtime temperatures and may decline in vigor if exposed to extreme heat above 90°F.
PruningDaffodils typically do not require extensive pruning. After flowering, it is important to remove the spent flower heads to prevent seed formation, which can reduce next season's blooms. However, leaves should be allowed to remain until they yellow and die back naturally, usually 6 to 8 weeks after blooming, as this period allows the bulbs to store energy for the next year.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Daffodil 'Quasar' should be well-draining with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A combination of loamy soil mixed with sand and compost would provide the ideal growing conditions for this daffodil variety.
RepottingDaffodil 'Quasar' bulbs should be repotted every 2 to 3 years. It's best to repot them after the foliage has died back, usually in late summer or early fall.
Humidity & MistingDaffodils, including 'Quasar', prefer average humidity conditions. They do not require high humidity and can tolerate the humidity levels typically found in outdoor garden settings.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light and cool temperatures.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade; well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleNarcissus 'Quasar', commonly known as Daffodil, begins its life cycle when a bulb is planted in well-drained soil during the fall before the first frost. The bulb remains dormant until late winter or early spring, whereupon it initiates growth, utilizing the nutrient reserves stored within the bulb. As temperatures warm, the shoot emerges from the soil, developing into a flower stalk with a single flower bud. The bud then blooms into a vibrant yellow flower, typical of daffodils, signaling the reproductive phase where it can attract pollinators for seed fertilization. Following pollination, the flower fades, and the plant develops a seed capsule while the foliage photosynthesizes to replenish the bulb's nutrient stores. At the end of the growing season, the leaves die back, and the plant enters a period of dormancy, ready to restart the cycle the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Autumn
The most popular method of propagation for Narcissus 'Quasar', commonly known as Daffodil 'Quasar', is through division of its bulbs. Typically, this is done in the late summer to early fall, once the foliage has died back, signaling the end of the plant's growing season. Gardeners carefully dig around the plant, lift the bulb clump from the ground, and gently separate the individual bulbs. Smaller bulbs, or offsets, that have formed around the base of the parent bulb can be detached and planted. These offsets are usually replanted immediately at a depth of about 6 inches (around 15 centimeters) and spaced around 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) apart to ensure proper room for growth. Planting the bulbs at this time allows them to establish roots before the winter and ensures a display of flowers in the following spring.
