Daffodil Narcissus 'Roundita' (1)
ABOUT
Narcissus 'Roundita' is characterized by its striking flowers which are the most prominent feature. The blooms have a classic daffodil shape, with a central trumpet or corona that is surrounded by a ring of six petal-like segments, known as the perianth. The flowers themselves are known for their bright, sunny hue, typically in shades of yellow that range from pale to deep golden. The central trumpet is often a slightly different shade, sometimes appearing in a deeper or richer yellow, which creates a lovely contrast with the perianth segments. These flowers emerge from slender, hollow stems that are topped with an elongated slender spike, from which the buds and flowers eventually bloom. The stems spring from a clump of basal, strap-shaped leaves that are a deep green color, with a slightly grayish or bluish tinge which provides a nice counterpoint to the warm tones of the flowers. The leaves are somewhat fleshy with a smooth texture, and they can be quite long, typically arching gracefully near their tips. Overall, the 'Roundita' daffodil has an elegant and cheerful appearance, with its showy flowers creating a delightful display that signals the arrival of spring. Its color palette and form make it a favorite among gardeners who seek to add a bright pop of color to their landscape.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Daffodil, Narcissus, Jonquil.
Common names
Narcissus 'Roundita'
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as daffodil is poisonous to humans if ingested. Toxic compounds, particularly lycorine and other alkaloids, are found in all parts of the plant. Symptoms of poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Severe cases could lead to dehydration, convulsions, and in rare instances, could be fatal if enough of the plant is consumed.
To pets
The plant known as daffodil is toxic to pets. It contains compounds such as lycorine, which can cause vomiting, salivation, diarrhea, convulsions, low blood pressure, tremors, and cardiac arrhythmias. Ingesting any part of the plant, especially the bulbs, can lead to severe poisoning and potentially fatal outcomes in pets.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
1 ft 4 in (0.4 m)
Spread
1 ft (0.3 m)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Narcissus 'Roundita', commonly known as Daffodil, is widely appreciated for its bright, showy flowers that add aesthetic appeal to gardens and landscapes.
- Easy to Grow: Daffodils are relatively low-maintenance and can thrive in a range of soil types, although they prefer well-drained soils.
- Spring Bloom: This plant is one of the earliest to bloom in spring, providing vibrant colors after the winter months.
- Naturalizing: Daffodils have the ability to spread and naturalize an area over time, creating a dense and beautiful display.
- Deer and Rodent Resistance: Daffodils are not palatable to deer and rodents, making them a great choice for gardens plagued by these animals.
- Long-Lived Perennial: As a perennial plant, Daffodils can live for many years, coming back every spring with little need for replanting.
- Cut Flower Use: The blooms of Daffodils are frequently used in cut flower arrangements, brightening up indoor spaces.
- Symbolic Flower: The Daffodil is associated with new beginnings and is often connected to the celebration of spring events and festivals.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Narcissus 'Roundita', commonly known as Daffodil, can be crushed to produce a fragrant dye used in textiles, giving fabric a soft yellow hue with a subtle floral scent.
- The sap of Daffodils can be used in small quantities as an adhesive for paper or art projects, acting as a natural glue when other adhesives are not available.
- Dried Daffodil petals can be incorporated into homemade paper, providing a unique texture and decorative element to the finished product.
- Daffodils can be used as a natural pest repellent; planting them around vegetable gardens or flower beds can help deter rodents and deer that dislike their scent.
- The bulbs of Daffodils can be experimented with for educational purposes, showcasing how bulbs grow and the lifecycle of plants to students and gardening beginners.
- Daffodil flowers can be used to create a natural dye for Easter eggs, offering a non-toxic alternative to synthetic dyes for holiday crafts.
- The strong stems of Daffodils can be woven into small decorative wreaths or used as natural stakes to support other, more fragile plants in a garden.
- When dried, Daffodils can be used as a component of potpourri, contributing a spring-like fragrance to a room when combined with other dried flowers and spices.
- Daffodil motifs can be used in art and design, with their distinctive shape and color providing inspiration for patterns in textiles, wallpaper, and other decorative elements.
- During blooming season, a field of Daffodils can serve as a picturesque backdrop for photography, painting, and other forms of visual art, capturing the essence of spring.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Narcissus, typically associated with good fortune in Chinese culture, can be used in Feng Shui to attract wealth and prosperity. It is often placed in the wealth corner of a home or business—the southeast area—to enhance financial success.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Narcissus is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Self-Love: The Narcissus, commonly known as the Daffodil, is often associated with narcissism or excessive self-love, stemming from the Greek myth of a young man named Narcissus who fell in love with his own reflection.
- Renewal: As one of the first flowers to bloom in spring, Daffodils are seen as symbols of rebirth and new beginnings.
- Unrequited love: In Victorian flower language, the Daffodil can signal unreturned love, possibly referring to the unattainable object of Narcissus' desire.
- Hope: The bright and cheery appearance of Daffodils brings hope and is often a sign of winter's end.
- Vanity: Due to the Narcissus myth, Daffodils can sometimes represent vanity and excessive self-admiration.
WaterDaffodils, which is the common name for Narcissus 'Roundita', should be watered deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which typically equates to watering once a week. During the active growing season, especially in dry conditions, they may require more frequent watering. Ensure that the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging. When watering, apply approximately 1 gallon of water per square foot of soil, which should sufficiently saturate the soil to the depth of the bulbs.
LightDaffodils thrive in full sunlight to partial shade. The best spot for planting daffodils would be an area that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Partial shade is also acceptable, especially in hot climates, as long as the plants get a good dose of morning sun.
TemperatureDaffodils prefer cooler temperatures and are hardy in a wide range of climates. The ideal temperature for daffodils is between 50°F and 70°F. They can survive winter temperatures as low as -20°F and summer temperatures up to 90°F, but they flourish in cooler conditions.
PruningPruning daffodils involves deadheading spent flowers to divert energy back to the bulb. However, leave the foliage intact until it turns yellow and begins to wither, which usually takes about six to eight weeks post-blooming. This is the best time for pruning, as it allows the plant to store energy for the next growing season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDaffodil 'Roundita' thrives best in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of loam, sand, and compost is ideal for providing the necessary nutrients and drainage.
RepottingDaffodils, including 'Roundita', typically do not need frequent repotting and are often left undisturbed for several years. Repot every 3-5 years if necessary or when clusters become crowded.
Humidity & MistingDaffodils like 'Roundita' are tolerant of most humidity levels and prefer outdoor conditions. They do not require high humidity and will thrive in average garden conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Daffodil 'Roundita' in bright, indirect light indoors.
Outdoor
Plant in well-drained soil with partial to full sun.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleNarcissus 'Roundita', commonly known as 'Roundita' daffodil, begins its life cycle with bulb formation, a period of dormancy where the bulb stores energy for the next growing season. In early spring, growth resumes as the bulb sends up shoots that develop into distinctive green foliage and a central flower stalk. In late winter to early spring, attractive single flowers bloom, usually displaying a sunny yellow hue characteristic of daffodils. After flowering, the plant enters a post-bloom phase where the leaves continue to gather sunlight and produce food through photosynthesis, which is stored in the bulb for next year's growth. As the foliage dies back in late spring or early summer, the plant re-enters a dormant state where the bulb's outer layers may split to form offsets or daughter bulbs, allowing for asexual reproduction. With proper care and favorable conditions, Narcissus 'Roundita' can repeat this cycle annually, providing cheerful blooms with each season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The most popular method for propagating Narcissus 'Roundita', commonly known as daffodil, is by dividing the bulbs. This is generally done in the fall, after the leaves have died back but before the ground freezes. To propagate, carefully dig up the bulbs and gently separate any offsets, which are the small bulbs that form at the base of the main bulb. These offsets can be replanted immediately at a depth of about 6 inches (15.24 cm) to 8 inches (20.32 cm), spaced 3 inches to 6 inches (7.62 cm to 15.24 cm) apart. It's crucial to ensure that the bulbs are planted with the pointy end facing upwards. Properly separated and replanted offsets will typically bloom in the following spring or the one thereafter. This method is advantageous as it helps to rejuvenate crowded clumps and encourage healthy growth and abundant flowering.
