Daffodil Narcissus 'Rapture' (6)
ABOUT
Narcissus 'Rapture' is a captivating plant that is widely known by its common name, the daffodil. The beauty of 'Rapture' lies in its unique flower form and coloration. The bloom is typically characterized by its striking trumpet-shaped flower, with a long, slender central cup that is often a bit frilly at the edge. The color of the flowers is a radiant yellow, emitting a sense of cheer and brightness in the garden. Surrounding this central trumpet are petals that are swept back, creating an alluring effect as though the flower is caught in a blissful, wind-swept motion. The vivid yellow petals are slightly recurved, adding to the dynamic appearance of the bloom. The foliage of 'Rapture' is slender and sword-like, deep green in color, which provides a perfect contrast to the brightness of the flowers. The leaves emerge from the base of the stem, creating an elegant backdrop for the stunning blooms which appear in early to mid-spring, heralding the change of seasons. The daffodil 'Rapture', with its charming flowers, and sleek green leaves, holds a distinctive place in gardens and landscapes, offering a burst of color and a refreshing presence to its surroundings.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Daffodil, Jonquil, Narcissus.
Common names
Narcissus 'Rapture'
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as Daffodil is toxic to humans. All parts of the Daffodil contain alkaloids that can be poisonous if ingested. Symptoms of Daffodil poisoning may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In severe cases, ingesting large amounts of the plant can lead to cardiac arrhythmias, low blood pressure, tremors, and convulsions. Handling the bulbs may also cause skin irritation for sensitive individuals.
To pets
The plant commonly known as Daffodil is also toxic to pets, including cats and dogs. The entire plant, especially the bulbs, can cause poisoning when ingested. Symptoms of Daffodil poisoning in pets may include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, excessive salivation, drooling, and in severe cases, cardiac arrhythmias, respiratory depression, and even seizures. Immediate veterinary attention is recommended if ingestion is suspected.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1 foot 6 inches (45 centimeters)
Spread
1 foot (30 centimeters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: The daffodil 'Rapture' is known to attract bees and other pollinating insects, which are vital for the pollination of many plants and the overall health of ecosystems.
- Easy to Grow: This plant is low-maintenance and can be easily grown in a variety of soil conditions, making it ideal for novice gardeners.
- Spring Color: With its bright cheerful blooms, the daffodil 'Rapture' adds vibrant color to gardens in the spring, a time when many other plants have yet to flower.
- Naturalizing: It is capable of naturalizing, meaning it can spread and multiply on its own, creating a denser floral display over time.
- Deer and Rodent Resistant: The daffodil 'Rapture' is rarely damaged by deer or rodents, making it a durable choice for gardens in areas where these animals are prevalent.
- Longevity: Daffodils like 'Rapture' have a long flowering life once established and can provide joy for many years with proper care.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Narcissus 'Rapture' can be used in the art of plant pressing, creating delicate pressed flowers for crafts or decoration.
- Dye making is another unusual use; it's possible to create a natural dye from the petals of the narcissus flowers for fabric or artwork.
- Sustainable confetti can be made from the petals of narcissus flowers for use in celebrations or as a biodegradable alternative to paper or plastic confetti.
- These plants can be used in educational settings to teach children about bulb growth cycles and plant biology in hands-on gardening projects.
- Narcissus flowers can be used in photography as a subject to explore macro photography techniques and natural lighting.
- Essence of narcissus, obtained from the flowers, is sometimes used in perfume making for its sweet and heady fragrance, although it's not very common.
- In floral art, such as the Japanese Ikebana, the distinct trumpet shape of the narcissus can add unique lines and forms to arrangements.
- The bulbs of narcissus plants can be forced to bloom indoors, allowing for year-round enjoyment of their flowers outside of their normal season.
- Narcissus flowers have been a muse for poets and writers, potentially serving as inspiration for literature and mythology-related discussions in educational settings.
- The sturdy stems of the narcissus make it suitable for modeling natural structures in architectural studies or as an organic example in design and form workshops.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Daffodil is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Daffodil is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Renewal and New Beginnings: The Narcissus 'Rapture', also known as the Daffodil, blooms in early spring, symbolizing the end of winter and the arrival of a new cycle of growth and abundance.
- Vanity and Self-absorption: In Greek mythology, Narcissus was a youth who fell in love with his own reflection, leading to the flower being associated with self-involvement and excessive self-love.
- Unrequited Love: The Daffodil has a shape with one blossom facing downward, which can symbolize one-sided or unreciprocated feelings.
- Hope and Encouragement: As a herald of spring, the Daffodil is often seen as a beacon of hope and can be given to provide encouragement to someone facing challenges.
- Prosperity: In some cultures, the Daffodil is believed to bring good fortune and is associated with success and wealth.
- Respect and Admiration: Presenting a bouquet of Daffodils can convey deep respect and an expression of high regard for the recipient.
WaterDaffodils, including the Narcissus 'Rapture', need regular watering during the growing season, especially while the plants are forming buds and flowering. They should be watered thoroughly once a week with about one inch of water, which roughly translates to a gallon per square foot, if there hasn't been sufficient rainfall. After blooming has finished and the leaves begin to yellow, you can reduce watering as the plant starts to go dormant. Overwatering or allowing them to sit in waterlogged soil can cause bulb rot, so ensure good drainage.
LightDaffodils thrive in full to partial sunlight. The ideal spot for Narcissus 'Rapture' is in a location where they can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight every day. However, they can tolerate some light afternoon shade, especially in areas with hotter climates. Proper light exposure is crucial for the development of strong stems and vibrant blooms.
TemperatureDaffodils are cold-hardy plants, and the Narcissus 'Rapture' is no exception. They can tolerate winter temperatures as low as 20°F and are typically planted in the fall before the ground freezes. They bloom best when exposed to a period of cold winter temperatures, and the ideal growing temperature during their active season is between 50°F and 70°F. Extreme heat during the growing season can lead to poor performance.
PruningDaffodils, such as Narcissus 'Rapture', require minimal pruning. The main reason to prune is to remove spent flower heads after blooming to prevent seed formation, which can deplete the bulb's energy reserves. Snip off the fading flowers at the base of the stem, but leave the foliage intact until it has yellowed and died back naturally, usually 6-8 weeks after flowering. This allows the plant to photosynthesize and store energy for next year's blooms.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDaffodils like Narcissus 'Rapture' thrive in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of 6 to 7. The best soil mix should contain loamy soil enriched with compost or well-rotted manure to provide nutrients. Adding perlite or sand can improve drainage, crucial for preventing bulb rot.
RepottingDaffodils, such as Narcissus 'Rapture', typically do not need frequent repotting and can be left undisturbed for several years. They should be repotted only when they become overcrowded, usually every 3 to 5 years, to maintain vigorous growth and flowering.
Humidity & MistingDaffodils like Narcissus 'Rapture' are not particularly humidity-sensitive and can thrive in average outdoor humidity levels. They do well in the natural humidity found in most temperate climates.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and cool temperatures.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade in autumn.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Narcissus 'Rapture', commonly known as the Rapture daffodil, begins with a dormant bulb stage, where it lies inactive underground typically during the summer. As temperatures cool in the fall, roots begin to grow from the base of the bulb. With the onset of spring, the bulb sends up green shoots that develop into long, narrow leaves and a single flower stalk per bulb, which bears the distinctive trumpet-shaped yellow flower that is characteristic of the Rapture daffodil. After blooming, which generally occurs in the spring, the plant undergoes a period of photosynthesis whereby the foliage stores energy in the bulb until the leaves yellow and die back. The bulb then enters a dormant period again to withstand the heat of the coming summer. This cycle repeats yearly, with the bulb potentially dividing to produce offsets that can be separated and planted to propagate new plants.
PropogationPropogation time
Late Summer-Early Autumn
Propogation: The common name for Narcissus 'Rapture' is the Daffodil 'Rapture', and the most popular method of propagation for this plant is through dividing the bulbs. The best time to propagate daffodils by bulb division is in the late summer to early fall, after the foliage has died back but before the ground freezes. To propagate by division, gently lift the clump of bulbs from the ground using a spade or fork, being careful not to damage the bulbs. Shake off excess soil and separate the bulbs by pulling them apart at the natural division points. Replant the individual bulbs immediately, positioning them at a depth about three times the height of the bulb and spaced approximately 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) apart to ensure they have enough room to grow. Water the newly planted bulbs well to help establish them. This method allows the daffodils to continue blooming year after year with minimal effort.
