Daffodil Narcissus 'Queen of the North' (3)
ABOUT
The Narcissus 'Queen of the North', commonly known as the Daffodil, is a spring-blooming perennial that is known for its striking appearance. Each flower displays a classic daffodil shape with a central trumpet-like corona surrounded by a ring of six petal-like tepals. These blooms are characterized by their white color, which gives them a pure and crisp look, reminiscent of a clear spring day. The corona is slightly ruffled at its edge, adding a touch of elegance to the overall look of the flower. The foliage of the 'Queen of the North' Daffodil is slender and strap-shaped, emanating from the base of the stem in a fresh green color that contrasts nicely with the bright blooms. The leaves are somewhat fleshy and have a tendency to arch gracefully, providing a lush backdrop to the starry white flowers that sit atop sturdy flower stalks. Blooms are typically arranged singly on each stem, giving each individual flower a spotlight to showcase its beauty during its spring display.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae
Synonyms
Queen of the North Daffodil, Queen of the North Narcissus
Common names
Narcissus 'Queen of the North'.
ToxicityTo humans
Daffodil, specifically the 'Queen of the North' variety, contains toxic alkaloids including lycorine, which can be harmful if ingested. Lycorine is present in all parts of the daffodil, but it is particularly concentrated in the bulb. Symptoms of daffodil poisoning may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and in severe cases can lead to dehydration, convulsions, and potentially life-threatening complications.
To pets
Daffodil is also toxic to pets such as cats and dogs. The toxic component lycorine can cause vomiting, salivation, diarrhea, low blood pressure, tremors, and cardiac arrhythmias. Symptoms can be severe, and in extreme cases, ingesting daffodil may lead to death. It is especially important to prevent pets from accessing the bulbs of daffodils, as they contain the highest concentration of the toxin.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1 foot 6 inches (45 cm)
Spread
0 feet 6 inches (15 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: The Narcissus 'Queen of the North', commonly known as Daffodil, has striking white flowers that add aesthetic value to gardens and landscapes.
- Easy to Grow: Daffodils are known for being low maintenance, making them suitable for novice gardeners.
- Spring Bloom: This plant typically blooms in early spring, providing one of the first splashes of color after the winter season.
- Naturalizing: Daffodils tend to naturalize, meaning they can spread and increase in number over the years without much intervention.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, daffodils have good drought tolerance, making them suitable for a variety of climates.
- Pest Resistant: They are relatively resistant to pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments in the garden.
- Deer and Rodent Resistant: Daffodils are not palatable to deer and rodents, which can help protect other plants in the garden.
- Symbolism: Daffodils are often associated with rebirth and new beginnings, making them a popular choice for celebratory occasions.
- Cut Flowers: They make excellent cut flowers for indoor displays due to their attractive blooms and long vase life.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dye production: The flowers of Narcissus 'Queen of the North', also known as daffodils, can be used to create a yellow dye for textiles, with different parts of the plant producing varying shades.
- Eco-friendly pest control: Planting daffodils in and around vegetable gardens can help deter rodents and deer, who tend to avoid these plants due to their toxicity.
- Photography prop: Daffodils, with their striking appearance, can serve as an excellent subject or natural prop for still life and nature photography.
- Floral watercolor art: The blooms can be used as models for botanical watercolor painting, providing a classic look that's popular in art depicting the spring season.
- Literary inspiration: The beauty of daffodils has inspired poets and writers; they can be planted and used as a muse for creating poetry or prose in a garden setting.
- Symbol of awareness: Daffodils can be used as a symbol during charity events for cancer, specifically as a symbol of hope in the fight against the disease.
- Wedding decor: These flowers are often chosen for spring weddings as they symbolize new beginnings and are used in bouquets, table arrangements, and venue decorations.
- Momentos and crafts: Pressed daffodil flowers can be used in scrapbooking, card making, or as embellishments in other craft projects for texture and natural beauty.
- Culinary garnish: Though not edible, a daffodil flower can be used as a non-toxic decorative garnish for plating in high-end culinary presentations.
- Educational tool: Daffodils can be used in educational settings to teach about plant biology, life cycles, and horticulture through observation and hands-on gardening activities.
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 New Beginnings: Narcissus, commonly known as daffodil, often blooms around the time of spring equinox, symbolizing the end of winter and the onset of a new growing season.
- Self-love: The name 'Narcissus' is derived from the Greek myth of Narcissus, who fell in love with his own reflection. Consequently, the flower can symbolize self-appreciation and self-care.
- Unrequited Love: In the language of flowers, giving someone a daffodil can also express unreturned affection, inspired by the story of Narcissus's inability to leave his reflected image.
- Hope and Encouragement: The daffodil's bright and cheery bloom is often associated with positivity, making it a symbol for providing hope and encouragement to someone going through a tough time.
WaterDaffodils, including the 'Queen of the North', should be watered deeply to encourage root growth when they are actively growing and blooming. This usually means providing about an inch of water weekly, which equates to just over half a gallon (64 ounces) for each square foot of soil. During the growing season, this watering routine should be maintained, adjusting for rainfall, as daffodils prefer consistently moist but not waterlogged soil. After blooming, reduce watering as the foliage begins to yellow and die back, signaling the end of the plant's active growth period. Avoid over-watering as it can lead to bulb rot.
LightDaffodils like 'Queen of the North' thrive in full sunlight to partial shade. The ideal location would provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Though they can tolerate some light shade, especially in hot climates, abundant sunlight is vital for vigorous blooms. Partially shaded areas under deciduous trees can be suitable since daffodils generally finish blooming before trees fully leaf out.
TemperatureDaffodils, such as 'Queen of the North', are hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures, but perform best in areas where average spring temperatures are between 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive brief periods of colder conditions, with hardiness down to at least 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Optimal growth occurs when the temperature does not exceed the mid-70s during the flowering period.
PruningPruning daffodils such as 'Queen of the North' primarily involves deadheading spent flowers to maintain a tidy appearance and prevent seed pod formation which can divert energy from the bulb. Pruning should not include cutting the foliage until it has yellowed and died back naturally, usually several weeks after blooming, as the leaves provide energy for the bulb to produce next year's flowers. There's no need to prune regularly, just clean up after blooming.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe ideal soil mix for growing Narcissus, commonly known as Daffodil, particularly 'Queen of the North', is a well-draining, fertile loam with added organic matter such as compost to enrich the soil. It should have a slightly acidic to neutral pH, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingDaffodils, including 'Queen of the North', are typically grown from bulbs and do not require frequent repotting. They should be repotted only when the bulbs become overcrowded, usually every 3 to 5 years.
Humidity & MistingDaffodils, such as 'Queen of the North', prefer average humidity levels and do not require any special humidity conditions. They can thrive in the natural outdoor humidity in most temperate climates.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, cooler temps, and don't overwater.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Daffodil 'Queen of the North' begins its life cycle when a seed germinates, typically requiring a period of cold stratification to break dormancy. Following germination, roots develop, and a bulb forms underground, collecting nutrients. The plant then sends up green, strap-like foliage, and in spring, a central stalk emerges, bearing the iconic white, trumpet-shaped flowers. After flowering, the plant directs energy back into the bulb as the leaves die back; the stored energy will support the next year's growth. The bulb enters a period of dormancy through the summer and fall, conserving resources. The life cycle repeats annually, with the dormant bulb awakening in late winter or early spring to restart the growth cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
The most popular method of propagation for Narcissus 'Queen of the North', also known as the Daffodil, is by dividing and replanting the bulbs. This should be done in the late summer to fall, after the leaves have died back but well before the ground freezes. Carefully dig up the clumps of bulbs and gently separate them, being mindful not to damage the bulbs. Each division should have at least one growth point or "eye". The separated bulbs are then immediately replanted at a depth of about 6 inches (15 cm) and spaced approximately 6 inches (15 cm) apart to allow for adequate room for growth. This method allows the gardener to quickly increase their daffodil display and maintain the vigor of their plants by reducing overcrowding.
