Daffodil Narcissus 'Queen Beatrix' (1)
ABOUT
'Queen Beatrix' daffodil is a delightful spring-flowering bulb plant known for its distinctively attractive blooms. The flowers exhibit a classic daffodil structure, with a central trumpet-shaped corona surrounded by six large, petal-like structures called tepals, which can be imagined as a skirt encircling the trumpet. The corona of the 'Queen Beatrix' daffodil has a ruffled rim, adding a touch of elegance and frill to its appearance. The color of the flower is particularly striking. The tepals are a bright white, providing a brilliant backdrop for the contrasting corona, which is a vibrant orange-pink hue. This combination gives the plant a very fresh and cheerful look, much like the monarch it is named after. The flowers are typically borne on sturdy, upright stems in clusters that make them excellent for display, whether in gardens or as cut flowers for indoor arrangements. The foliage of this plant is also worth mentioning. It consists of strap-like leaves that are a lush, deep green. These leaves emerge before the flowers, creating a lovely contrast against the soil and other surrounding plants. Following blooming, the foliage remains and continues to gather sunlight to feed the bulb for the next season's growth, before eventually withering away. In summary, the 'Queen Beatrix' daffodil is a vibrantly colored flower with a central, ruffled trumpet and surrounding white petals, supported by green, strap-like leaves. Its regal name is mirrored in the plant's striking and elegant appearance, making it a popular choice for gardeners looking to add a touch of nobility to their spring landscape.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Daffodil, Jonquil, Narcissus.
Common names
Narcissus 'Queen Beatrix'
ToxicityTo humans
Daffodil, which is the most common name for Narcissus 'Queen Beatrix', is toxic to humans. All parts of the daffodil plant contain lycorine and other alkaloids, with the bulb being the most poisonous part. If ingested, these toxins can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to cardiac arrhythmias, hypotension, respiratory depression, and even death if a large amount is consumed and left untreated.
To pets
Daffodil, also known as Narcissus 'Queen Beatrix', is toxic to pets. The toxicity is due to the presence of lycorine and other alkaloids, which are especially concentrated in the bulbs. If pets ingest any part of the daffodil, they may exhibit symptoms like vomiting, salivation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, heart rhythm abnormalities, and possibly seizures. Significant ingestions can be fatal, so immediate veterinary care is crucial if a pet is suspected to have ingested daffodil.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1.5 feet (45 cm)
Spread
0.5 feet (15 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Western Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: The Narcissus 'Queen Beatrix' adds aesthetic appeal to gardens and landscapes with its striking blooms.
- Low Maintenance: It is relatively easy to care for and does not require frequent watering or special treatments.
- Spring Blooming: It blooms in spring, providing early color to the garden after winter.
- Perennial Growth: As a perennial, it will return year after year, adding long-term value to the garden.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers attract bees and other pollinators, which are beneficial for the health of the garden and the environment.
- Symbolic Meaning: Often associated with rebirth and new beginnings, it can be a meaningful addition to many gardens.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it can tolerate periods of dryness, making it suitable for xeriscaping or drought-prone areas.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Papermaking - The fibers from the Narcissus plant can be processed and used in the making of high-quality, textured paper.
- Dye Production - The petals of Narcissus flowers can be used to extract yellow or orange dye for fabrics and art projects.
- Garden Pest Repellent - Narcissus plants are believed to repel certain garden pests, including rodents, potentially protecting other plants nearby.
- Floral Arrangements - With their bright colors and distinct shape, they are popular in cut flower arrangements and can add a touch of spring to any décor.
- Eco-friendly Insect Trap - The sticky sap of some Narcissus species can trap small insects, which is potentially useful for organic pest control in gardens.
- Bookmark Creation - Dried petals or whole flowers can be laminated to create unique and elegant bookmarks.
- Fragrance Extraction - The scent of Narcissus flowers can be extracted and used in perfumery and the production of scented candles and oils.
- Photography Prop - Their photogenic appearance makes them perfect for still life photography or as a backdrop for portrait photos.
- Culinary Garnish - Although not commonly eaten, the flowers can be used as a non-toxic garnish to add color to culinary presentations.
- Fishing Bait - In some places, parts of the Narcissus plant are used as a component in fish bait mixtures.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe daffodil is associated with good fortune and is believed to bring positive energy when placed in the home, especially in the wealth corner or southeast area of a living space to attract prosperity.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe daffodil is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Rebirth and New Beginnings: The Narcissus 'Queen Beatrix' blooms in early spring, making it a symbol of the end of winter and the arrival of a new growth cycle.
- Self-Esteem and Vanity: Named after the Greek myth of Narcissus, this plant can represent self-love and an excessive focus on one's own beauty.
- Wealth and Prosperity: In some cultures, the Narcissus is a symbol of success and wealth, possibly because its blossoms are coin-shaped.
- Hopes and Dreams: Given as a gift, the Narcissus can express a wish for the recipient to remain just the way they are, linked to the aspiration for the future.
- Respect and Admiration: With its upright posture and regal bearing, the Narcissus 'Queen Beatrix' can symbolize deep respect and regard for someone.
WaterDaffodils, including 'Queen Beatrix', should be watered thoroughly at planting and then receive about an inch of water per week while they are growing and blooming. In general, this translates to about half a gallon per square foot every week. However, be cautious not to overwater as daffodils prefer well-drained soil and can rot if waterlogged. After the plant blooms, you can reduce watering as the foliage starts to die back, allowing the soil to dry out somewhat more between waterings. During the dormant period in summer, daffodils do not require additional watering unless the season is particularly dry.
LightDaffodils, including 'Queen Beatrix', thrive in full sun to partial shade. They perform best when they receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. A spot that gets morning sunlight and some afternoon shade is ideal to protect them from the heat of the day which can be quite intense in some climates.
TemperatureDaffodils, including 'Queen Beatrix', can survive winter temperatures as low as -20°F and are quite hardy, preferring the cooler temperatures of spring and fall. They can bloom in temperatures ranging from 40°F to 70°F. They are not suitable for extended warm temperatures above 75°F, as they require a period of cold dormancy.
PruningDaffodils, including 'Queen Beatrix', require minimal pruning. Deadhead the flowers once they have faded to encourage bulb growth instead of seed formation, but leave the foliage in place. The leaves should be allowed to die back naturally to help recharge the bulb for the next growing season. Typically, daffodils do not require pruning until they begin to overcrowd and flowering diminishes, at which point they can be dug up and divided after foliage has yellowed.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDaffodil 'Queen Beatrix' thrives best in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. A mix of one-part loam, one-part peat, and one-part sand is ideal to provide proper drainage and nutrient retention. Amend the soil with compost to enhance fertility before planting.
RepottingDaffodils, including 'Queen Beatrix', do not require frequent repotting and are often left undisturbed for several years. It is typically done every 3-5 years or when the bulbs become overcrowded, ideally right after the foliage has died back in late spring or early summer.
Humidity & MistingDaffodil 'Queen Beatrix' tolerates a wide range of humidity levels but does best in conditions that replicate its natural outdoor environment. Average room humidity is typically sufficient for these plants; they do not require any special humidity adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and cool temperatures.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade, in well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleDaffodil 'Queen Beatrix' begins its life cycle as a bulb, which lies dormant underground during the summer. As temperatures cool in late fall, the bulb initiates root growth, anchoring itself in the soil. In late winter to early spring, foliage begins to emerge, followed by the development of a flower stalk bearing a single flower, often coinciding with early spring blooms of other daffodil varieties. After flowering, the petals fade and the plant directs its energy into the bulb for storage. The foliage remains for a period, photosynthesizing to replenish the bulb's energy reserves, before it too withers and the plant enters dormancy. The cycle restarts the following fall, with the bulb generating new roots to prepare for another growth season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Narcissus 'Queen Beatrix', commonly known as a daffodil variety, is typically propagated by dividing the bulbs. The best time for this practice is in late summer to early fall, after the foliage has died back but before the ground freezes. To propagate by bulb division, gently lift the clump of bulbs from the ground with a garden fork, being careful not to damage them. Separate the bulbs by gently pulling them apart, ensuring that each section has at least one growing point or "eye." Replant the bulbs promptly at a depth three times the height of the bulb, about 6 to 8 inches apart (15 to 20 centimeters). Water the divided bulbs well to help establish them. This vegetative propagation method is effective since each bulb will potentially grow into a new plant come spring.
