Double Daffodil Narcissus 'Replete' (4)
ABOUT
The Narcissus 'Replete' is a captivating variety of the common daffodil, known for its alluring double flowers. Its blooms are quite a sight, featuring a blend of soft pink and creamy white hues. The outer petals are often a lighter shade, almost like a creamy frame to the deeper, richer pink tones that billow out from the center of the flower. These inner petals are ruffled and plentiful, giving the impression of a full and intricate blossom that can easily catch the eye in any garden. This daffodil variety is often praised for its ornamental quality and the gentle contrast of colors between the whorls of petals. The blossoms exude a fresh, inviting fragrance that is typical of springtime flowering bulbs. As this variety blooms, it reveals its beauty atop a sturdy, green stem, accompanied by slender, blade-like leaves that make the flowers stand out even more. The Narcissus 'Replete' is a true herald of spring, offering a luxurious, soft, and romantic appearance that brings a sense of enchantment to any landscape.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae
Synonyms
Double Daffodil, Double Pink Daffodil, Pink Narcissus
Common names
Narcissus 'Replete'
ToxicityTo humans
The common name for Narcissus 'Replete' is daffodil. Daffodils are toxic to humans if ingested. They contain a compound called lycorine and other alkaloids which can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to more serious effects like tremors, cardiac arrhythmias, and even collapse. Handling the bulbs may cause skin irritation for sensitive individuals. Therefore, caution is advised when dealing with daffodils, especially with children, as they might be tempted to eat the attractive flowers or bulbs.
To pets
Daffodils are toxic to pets; ingestion can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and even cardiac arrhythmias or respiratory depression in severe cases. The bulbs are the most toxic part, but all parts of the plant can be harmful if ingested by pets. If a pet consumes any part of a daffodil, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately as the consequences can be serious, especially in small animals.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
1 foot 4-6 inches (40-50 cm)
Spread
6 inches (15 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-8
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Narcissus 'Replete', also known as double daffodil, has a unique and striking appearance with its double flowers and mixed pink and cream colors that enhance the beauty of gardens.
- Easy Care: Daffodils are low-maintenance, requiring minimal care once planted, which is ideal for both novice and experienced gardeners.
- Spring Bloomer: As a spring-flowering bulb, Narcissus 'Replete' provides early color in the garden, often blooming when few other plants are.
- Attracts Pollinators: Double daffodil blooms can attract bees and other pollinators, promoting biodiversity and health in gardens.
- Deer and Rodent Resistant: Daffodils are generally resistant to deer and rodents, making them a good choice for areas where these animals are a problem.
- Naturalizing: Narcissus 'Replete' has the ability to naturalize, meaning it can spread and come back year after year with little intervention.
- Longevity: Daffodils are known for their long bloom time in the spring, and the flowers of Narcissus 'Replete' can last for several weeks under the right conditions.
- Cut Flower: These blooms are excellent for cutting and creating fragrant, colorful indoor floral arrangements.
- Seasonal Interest: As one of the first flowers to bloom in spring, double daffodils mark the end of winter and add to the seasonal interest of the landscape.
- Garden Design: The unique look of Narcissus 'Replete' adds variety and can be used to create focal points in garden design.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The Narcissus 'Replete', commonly known as the double daffodil, can be used as a natural dye source for fabrics and fibers, with the flowers imparting a range of yellow and orange hues.
- In some cultures, the bulbs of the double daffodil are used in traditional art practices for making natural inks used in painting or calligraphy.
- Gardeners plant double daffodils among vegetables to deter rodents and other animals, as the bulbs are toxic and discourage foraging.
- As a symbol of rebirth and new beginnings, double daffodils are often planted in schools or community centers to reinforce these themes in educational programs.
- Double daffodil bulbs can be forced indoors during the winter months to provide a bright and fragrant floral display when outdoor gardens lie dormant.
- Eco-friendly pest control can be achieved by planting double daffodils around the perimeter of properties, as they deter deer and other wildlife.
- The double daffodil's strong stems make them suitable for inclusion in windbreaks or natural fences in garden landscaping.
- They are used in flower arranging competitions and classes given their distinctive layered petals and ability to add volume and texture to arrangements.
- The fragrance of double daffodils is sometimes captured in high-end perfumes, though this is a complex process due to the delicate nature of the scent.
- Artists and photographers frequently use double daffodils as a subject in their work to capture the essence of spring and the complexity of the blooms.
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: The Narcissus 'Replete', commonly known as the Double Daffodil, often blooms in early spring, symbolizing the end of winter and the arrival of new life.
- Unrequited Love: In Greek mythology, Narcissus fell in love with his own reflection, which led to his death. Because of this story, the flower has become associated with self-love and unrequited love.
- Prosperity: During the Chinese New Year, the Double Daffodil is considered to bring good fortune and is often gifted as a symbol of wealth and prosperity.
- Respect and Admiration: Offering a bouquet of Double Daffodils can be a gesture of deep respect and admiration towards the receiver.
WaterDaffodils, like Narcissus 'Replete', prefer evenly moist soil and should not be left in soggy conditions. Water these bulbs deeply once a week to encourage strong root development during the growing season, ensuring that you provide about 1 inch of water each time. During the bloom period, you may increase watering slightly. However, when the foliage begins to die back after flowering, gradually reduce watering. Always allow the top 2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent bulb rot. It's unnecessary to water daffodils during their dormant period in summer, unless the season is unusually dry.
LightDaffodils, including Narcissus 'Replete', thrive best in full sunlight to partial shade. They require at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day, making an east or south-facing garden spot ideal. If planted under deciduous trees, they'll receive sufficient light in the spring before the trees fully leaf out. Avoid deep shade, as it will impede flowering.
TemperatureDaffodils, such as Narcissus 'Replete', prefer cool to moderate temperatures and are cold-hardy flowers. They can survive winter temperatures as low as 15°F when planted appropriately. Ideal growing temperatures for daffodils range from 50°F to 60°F, but they can tolerate brief periods of higher temperatures during their growing season. Make sure they're in the ground before the freeze to ensure a spring bloom.
PruningDaffodils, like Narcissus 'Replete', require minimal pruning. Deadhead flowers after blooming to prevent seed pod development but leave the foliage intact until it has yellowed and died back naturally. This allows the plant to store energy for the following year's blooms. This process typically occurs towards the end of spring or early summer.
CleaningNot needed
SoilDouble Daffodil 'Replete' requires well-draining soil with a pH of 6 to 6.5. A good mix would be equal parts garden loam, coarse sand, and peat moss to maintain moisture and nutrient levels. Avoid heavy, wet soils as daffodils prefer not to be waterlogged.
RepottingDouble Daffodil 'Replete' does not typically require frequent repotting. Repot these bulbs every 3 to 5 years or when the clumps become overcrowded, usually after the foliage dies back.
Humidity & MistingDouble Daffodil 'Replete' prefers moderate humidity levels. High humidity is not necessary and can actually promote fungal diseases, while too low humidity is generally not a concern for this hardy plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place 'Replete' in bright, indirect light and cool temps.
Outdoor
Plant 'Replete' in well-draining soil, full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleNarcissus 'Replete', commonly known as the Double Daffodil, begins its life cycle as a bulb, which lies dormant underground through the summer. In autumn, roots begin to develop as the temperature cools and the bulb prepares for growth. During late winter or early spring, the bulb sends up shoots, which will develop into the characteristic foliage and stems; this is followed by the emergence of buds that bloom into the distinctive double flowers with pink and white petals. After flowering, which occurs in spring, the plant enters a period of photosynthesis and energy storage, whereby the foliage gathers energy from the sun to recharge the bulb for the next year. Once the leaves yellow and die back in late spring or early summer, the bulb returns to dormancy. The cycle will repeat each year, with bulbs having the potential to multiply and form clumps that can be divided for propagation.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-early summer
The Narcissus 'Replete', commonly known as the double daffodil, is usually propagated through division of its bulbs. The best time for this method is after the foliage has died back, usually in late summer to early fall. To propagate, carefully lift the clump of bulbs from the ground using a spade, avoiding damage to the bulbs. Gently separate the bulbs from the main clump, being sure to keep as much of the root system intact as possible. Each separated bulb can then be replanted at a depth of about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) in well-draining soil, spaced roughly 6 inches (15 centimeters) apart to allow for adequate room for growth. Water the bulbs well after planting to establish them in their new location. This method of division helps to rejuvenate crowded clumps and encourages vigorous growth in the following spring.
