Daffodil Narcissus 'Skilliwidden' (2)

Names

• Synonyms

  Daffodil, Jonquil, Narcissus

• Common names

  Narcissus 'Skilliwidden'

Toxicity

• To humans

  The plant commonly known as daffodil, which includes the Narcissus 'Skilliwidden', is toxic to humans if ingested. The daffodil contains toxic alkaloids including lycorine and others that can cause poisoning. Symptoms of poisoning often include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and in severe cases, it can lead to dehydration, low blood pressure, tremors, and cardiac arrhythmias. If the bulb is mistaken for an onion and eaten, it can cause significant oral irritation and gastrointestinal symptoms. Ingesting any part of the daffodil should be avoided, and medical attention should be sought immediately if ingestion occurs.

• To pets

  Daffodils, including Narcissus 'Skilliwidden', are poisonous to pets if any part of the plant is ingested. The primary toxic principle is lycorine, an alkaloid present in all parts of the daffodil. Symptoms of poisoning in pets may include vomiting, salivation, diarrhea, convulsions, low blood pressure, tremors, and cardiac arrhythmias. In particular, the bulb is the most poisonous part. If a pet ingests daffodils, it is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention from a veterinarian.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  White

• Height

  1 foot 6 inches (45.72 cm)

• Spread

  6 inches (15.24 cm)

• Plant type

  Bulb

• Hardiness zones

  4

• Native area

  Europe

General Benefits

• Aesthetic Appeal: Narcissus 'Skilliwidden', commonly known as Daffodil, adds vibrant color and beauty to gardens and landscapes with its striking blooms.
• Easy to Grow: Daffodils are low-maintenance and can thrive in a variety of soil conditions, making them suitable for novice gardeners.
• Pest Resistance: These plants are resistant to many pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments in the garden.
• Perennial Nature: As perennials, Daffodils return year after year, providing long-term value and interest.
• Naturalizing: Daffodils have the ability to naturalize, spreading and creating larger displays over time.
• Early Bloomers: Being among the first to bloom in spring, they signal the end of winter and the start of a new growing season.
• Wildlife Attraction: Daffodils can attract pollinators like bees, providing them with an early source of nectar and pollen.
• Cut Flowers: The blooms are long-lasting when cut, making them a popular choice for fresh floral arrangements.

Medical Properties

This plant is not used for medical purposes.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Narcissus 'Skilliwidden' can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, offering a range of colors depending on the mordant used during the dyeing process.
• During the Victorian era, daffodil juice was used as a traditional adhesive for repairing broken china or earthenware.
• The bulbs can be utilized as a natural pest repellent when planted near certain vegetables in the garden to deter rodents and deer.
• Historically, crushed narcissus bulbs were spread in closets or drawers to give clothes and linens a fresh scent and deter insects.
• The stalks and leaves can be woven or braided into small decorative items such as baskets, though this is not a widely practiced use.
• The unique shape and structure of narcissus flowers can inspire artists and designers in various fields such as fashion, architecture, and graphic design.
• Narcissus flowers can be pressed and used in scrapbooking or card making to add a three-dimensional element to paper crafts.
• In perfumery, certain parts of the flower may occasionally contribute to the creation of floral scent profiles, though narcissus is not a common ingredient.
• Photographers may use the vibrant fields of narcissus flowers as a natural backdrop for portrait and landscape photography.
• Educationally, narcissus plants can serve as a tool for teaching biology and botany, illustrating plant growth cycles and reproductive processes.

Feng Shui

The Daffodil is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Daffodil is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Rebirth and New Beginnings: The Narcissus, commonly known as the daffodil, blooms in early spring and thereby symbolizes the end of winter and the advent of a new season or phase in life.
• Unrequited Love: According to Greek mythology, the flower is associated with the story of the youth Narcissus, who fell in love with his own reflection. This symbolizes self-love and often, the inability to have one's love reciprocated.
• Inspiration and Creativity: Daffodils are seen as a muse for artists and creators due to their bright appearance and the rejuvenation they symbolize during spring.
• Remembrance: In some Western cultures, the daffodil is a symbol of remembrance and is often used for commemorations.
• Inner Reflection: The daffodil's connection to the Narcissus myth points towards introspection and the importance of understanding oneself.
• Honor: Giving a bouquet of daffodils is sometimes meant to express high regard and ensure happiness.
• Reward and Recognition: Due to their bright bloom in spring, daffodils can symbolize reward after a period of challenge, akin to the sun emerging after a dark winter.