Daffodil Narcissus 'Rainbow' (2)
ABOUT
Narcissus 'Rainbow' is characterized by its striking flowers which primarily bring the plant its recognition. The blooms are composed of layers of petals that usually showcase a mix of cheerful colors - hence the name 'Rainbow'. The central part of the flower, commonly referred to as the trumpet or corona, often exhibits a contrasting hue compared to the outer petals. The foliage of the Narcissus 'Rainbow' includes slender, green leaves that grow from the base and provide a complementary backdrop to the vibrant flowers. The overall effect of the plant when in bloom is a bright and colorful display that can add a touch of springtime cheer to any garden or floral arrangement.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae.
Synonyms
Daffodil, Jonquil, Narcissus.
Common names
Narcissus 'Rainbow'
ToxicityTo humans
Daffodil, including the Narcissus 'Rainbow', is considered poisonous to humans. All parts of the daffodil contain the toxic alkaloid lycorine, with the bulb being the most poisonous part. If ingested, symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, ingesting daffodil parts can lead to dehydration, arrhythmias, convulsions, and occasionally can be fatal, although such extreme reactions are rare. Handling the bulbs can also cause skin irritation known as daffodil itch due to the presence of calcium oxalate crystals.
To pets
Daffodil, including the Narcissus 'Rainbow', is toxic to pets, such as cats and dogs. The entire plant is toxic, with the bulb being the most dangerous part. If a pet ingests daffodil, symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, drooling, and in serious cases, cardiac arrhythmias, respiratory depression, tremors, and convulsions. It is important to prevent pets from accessing any part of the plant and seek veterinary attention immediately if ingestion is suspected.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
0-1 feet (0-30 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Europe Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds vibrant colors to gardens and landscapes with its multi-colored blooms.
- Spring Blooming: Signals the end of winter with its early spring flowers, bringing the first splash of color to the garden.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, making it a convenient choice for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Cold Hardy: Tolerates cold temperatures well, allowing it to thrive in a variety of climates.
- Naturalizing: Capable of spreading and naturalizing in an area, creating dense and colorful displays over time.
- Pollinator Friendly: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, which are vital to the ecosystem and help in the pollination of other plants.
- Cut Flower Use: Long stems and striking flowers make it ideal for cutting and using in floral arrangements indoors.
- Resistant to Deer: Generally resistant to deer, which helps prevent damage to the garden from wildlife.
- Symbolism: Often associated with rebirth and new beginnings, making it a meaningful addition to a garden.
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 'Rainbow' can be used in perfumery, as some varieties have a pleasant and strong fragrance that is used to create perfumes and scented products.
- The color-rich petals of the Narcissus can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, yielding soft yellow to orange hues depending on the flower's pigmentation.
- Fiber artists sometimes use the dry plant material, such as leaves and stems, from Narcissus plants in papermaking to add texture and visual interest to handmade paper.
- The Narcissus bulbs can be forced in water indoors to provide a decorative element and natural beauty in the winter months.
- In some cultures, Narcissus flowers are symbolic and used in festivals or celebrations of spring and rebirth, as they are among the first flowers to bloom in the spring.
- Due to their association with vanity and self-love stemming from the Greek myth of Narcissus, these flowers may be used in art and literature to convey those themes.
- Narcissus flowers can be used as a natural pest repellent in gardens, as some pests may be deterred by their scent.
- The sturdy stalks of Narcissus plants can be used as natural supports for other plants in the garden as they grow.
- Narcissus flowers can provide a seasonal food source for pollinators such as bees and butterflies in the early spring when few other flowers are available.
- In the language of flowers, also known as floriography, gifting Narcissus blooms can be a way to send a message of new beginnings or unrequited love.
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 'Rainbow', commonly known as daffodil, often blooms in early spring, symbolizing renewal and the end of the winter season.
- Unrequited Love: In Greek mythology, Narcissus fell in love with his own reflection, leading to a connection with narcissism and love that cannot be reciprocated.
- Hope and Encouragement: The bright appearance of daffodils brings cheer and is a symbol of hope, making it a common gift to express support and encouragement.
- Wealth and Good Fortune: In some cultures, daffodils are believed to bring good fortune and are associated with wealth and prosperity, particularly when they are the first to bloom in spring.
WaterDaffodils, the common name for Narcissus 'Rainbow', should be watered thoroughly at planting and again whenever the top inch of soil begins to dry out. During the growing season, typically in spring, this may mean watering once a week with about 1 gallon per square yard, depending on soil type and local weather conditions. Once the daffodils have finished blooming and the leaves start to yellow, which usually occurs in late spring to early summer, watering can be reduced as these plants prefer drier conditions during dormancy. Overwatering can be detrimental, so it is important to ensure good drainage and prevent water from pooling around the bulbs.
LightDaffodils flourish in a spot with full sun to partial shade. Ideally, they should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. An east or west-facing garden that gets morning or late afternoon sun, respectively, is suitable. However, they can tolerate light shade, particularly during the hotter parts of the day or in regions with very intense sunlight.
TemperatureDaffodils generally do well in a wide range of temperatures but perform best when daytime temperatures are roughly between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit and nighttime temperatures do not dip below freezing. They can survive brief periods of colder winter temperatures down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit, but prolonged exposure to temperatures below this can damage the bulbs. The ideal temperature range for promoting good daffodil growth is 40 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
PruningPruning daffodils typically involves deadheading, which is the removal of spent flower heads. This should be done as soon as the flowers fade to prevent the plant from wasting energy on seed production. However, foliage should not be cut back until it has turned yellow and died down naturally, often 6 to 8 weeks after blooming. This allows the leaves to photosynthesize and store energy in the bulb for the next year's growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDaffodil 'Rainbow' thrives best in well-draining soil that's rich in organic matter with a neutral to slightly acidic pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of loamy soil with added compost and perlite or sand can provide the appropriate texture and nutrients for the daffodils to flourish.
RepottingDaffodils, including the 'Rainbow' variety, do not need to be repotted often. They should be repotted only when they become overcrowded, usually every 3-5 years. It's best to repot after the foliage has died back.
Humidity & MistingDaffodil 'Rainbow' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does not require any special humidity conditions. As long as the soil moisture is properly maintained, ambient humidity should not be an issue for these plants.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and keep soil moist.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade with moist, well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleNarcissus 'Rainbow', commonly known as the Rainbow Daffodil, begins its life as a bulb, which lies dormant underground during the summer months. As temperatures cool in autumn, roots begin to develop, and by late winter or early spring, sprouts emerge from the soil, leading to the growth of the plant's distinctive strap-like leaves and flower stalks. The blooming period occurs in the spring when the colorful trumpet-shaped flowers are displayed, lasting up to six weeks. After flowering, the plant enters a period of photosynthesis and energy storage while the foliage remains green. As spring turns into summer, the leaves yellow and wither as the plant goes into dormancy, returning nutrients to the bulb for next year's growth cycle. The dormant bulb survives underground until the conditions are right to start the cycle anew.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
The most popular method of propagation for Narcissus 'Rainbow', commonly known as daffodil, is by division of bulbs. This is typically done in the fall, after the leaves have died back and the plant is dormant. Gardeners should carefully dig up the bulbs and gently separate the small offset bulbs that have formed around the base of the parent bulb. These offsets, often called "bulblets" or "daughter bulbs," can be replanted immediately at a depth of about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters), allowing each new plant enough room to grow. It is important to ensure that the soil is well-drained and to plant the bulbs with the pointy end facing upwards. This method of dividing and replanting the bulbs will encourage clonal propagation, resulting in new daffodil plants that are genetically identical to the parent plant.
