Daffodil Narcissus 'Small Talk' (1)
ABOUT
The Narcissus 'Small Talk' is a charming variety of daffodil known for its ornate blooms that capture attention in early to mid-spring. This plant showcases vibrant yellow petals that surround a deeper golden-yellow cup in the center, creating a striking contrast. The petals are often slightly recurved, creating an inviting, open face to the flower. Its foliage consists of slender, green leaves that provide a fresh background to the bright flowers. Blooms are typically borne solo or in small clusters on individual stems, allowing each blossom to stand out brilliantly against the greenery. The delicate and cheerful appearance of Narcissus 'Small Talk' makes it a favorite for garden displays, container plantings, and as a cut flower to brighten indoor spaces.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae.
Synonyms
Small Talk Daffodil, Small Talk Narcissus.
Common names
Narcissus 'Small Talk'.
ToxicityTo humans
Narcissus 'Small Talk' is a variety of daffodil, which is known to be toxic to humans if ingested. All parts of the daffodil contain poisonous alkaloids, with the bulb being the most toxic part. If a person ingests any part of a daffodil, they may experience symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to more serious symptoms like cardiac arrhythmias, low blood pressure, tremors, and seizures. Contact with the sap may also cause skin irritation or dermatitis in sensitive individuals.
To pets
Daffodil, including the Narcissus 'Small Talk' variety, is toxic to pets. If a pet ingests any part of a daffodil, they could suffer from symptoms such as vomiting, salivation, diarrhea, convulsions, low blood pressure, tremors, and cardiac arrhythmias. The bulb is particularly toxic. In severe cases, eating daffodil parts may lead to serious gastrointestinal and cardiac issues, which can be fatal if not treated by a veterinarian promptly.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
6-12 inches (15-30 cm)
Spread
3-6 inches (7.5-15 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Western Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Decorative Appeal: Daffodils like Narcissus 'Small Talk' are popular for their bright, cheerful blooms that herald the arrival of spring.
- Easy Maintenance: They are low-maintenance, requiring minimal care once planted.
- Perennial Growth: As perennials, they will return year after year with proper care.
- Pest Resistance: Daffodils are generally resistant to deer, rabbits, and rodents.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, they are relatively drought-tolerant and can survive in a variety of climates.
- Soil Adaptation: They can adapt to a range of soil types, though they prefer well-drained soil.
- Attract Pollinators: They can attract pollinators such as bees, beneficial for gardens and the environment.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Artistic Inspiration: The bright, cheery blooms of the daffodil 'Small Talk' can serve as a muse for artists and poets, inspiring paintings, illustrations, and verses.
- Dye Making: The petals of daffodils can be used to produce a yellow dye for fabrics or inks, though 'Small Talk' may yield a paler color due to its lighter shades.
- Eco-friendly Pesticides: Daffodil bulbs contain alkaloids that can be processed into natural pesticides, deterring unwanted insects from gardens without harsh chemicals.
- Photography Subjects: Due to their unique appearance and early bloom, 'Small Talk' daffodils are often used as subjects for photographers, especially in macro photography.
- Companionship for Other Plants: Daffodils are great companion plants, reputed to deter rodents and other pests, protecting more vulnerable plants in the garden.
- Culinary Decoration: Although the plant is toxic and should never be consumed, the flowers can be used as non-edible garnishes to decorate food platters or cakes.
- Floral Water Features: The floating ability of daffodil flowers can be used to create decorative water features or floating arrangements in shallow bowls.
- Memory Symbolism: Due to their associations with remembrance, daffodils like 'Small Talk' are planted in memory gardens or used in ceremonies commemorating significant events.
- Scent Enhancement in Soaps: While not directly used in the process, the scent of daffodils can inspire fragrances for soaps and candles, though typically synthetically replicated.
- Wedding Flowers: Daffodils like 'Small Talk' can be utilized in wedding bouquets and decorations, symbolizing new beginnings and happiness for the newlyweds.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Daffodil is associated with good fortune and is believed to bring positive energy when placed in the home or office. It symbolizes rebirth and new beginnings, making it suitable for areas like the living room to create a cheerful and uplifting environment. However, it should not be placed in bedrooms, as strong yang energy of flowering plants could disturb sleep.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Daffodil is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Rebirth and New Beginnings: Narcissus, more commonly known as the daffodil, blooms in early spring, symbolizing the end of winter and the advent of new growth and beginnings.
- Self-Love: Named after the mythological character who fell in love with his own reflection, daffodils represent self-regard and self-love.
- Inspiration: The daffodil is a symbol of creativity, inspiration, and the ability to see beyond the immediate, drawing connections to the inner reflection and awareness.
- Renewal: As a sign of the renewal that comes with the spring season, daffodils symbolize the promise of renewal and refreshing change.
- Prosperity: In some cultures, daffodils are believed to bring good fortune and prosperity, especially when they are the first to bloom in the new year.
WaterNarcissus 'Small Talk', commonly known as daffodil, prefers consistent moisture during the growing season. Water the daffodils deeply to wet the soil around the bulbs, providing about 1 inch of water weekly. Avoid overwatering, as excess moisture can lead to bulb rot. During the dormant period after flowering, reduce watering. If rainfall is insufficient, supplement with additional water, measuring to ensure you're not exceeding the recommended weekly amount.
LightDaffodils thrive best in full to partial sunlight. They should be positioned where they can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Partial shade in the afternoon is acceptable, especially in hot climates, to protect the blooms from intense heat.
TemperatureDaffodils are cold-hardy and can survive in temperatures as low as 15 degrees Fahrenheit but prefer a temperature range between 50 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate heat up to approximately 75 degrees Fahrenheit but perform best when nights are cool.
PruningDaffodils benefit from deadheading, which means removing spent flowers after blooming. This prevents seed pod formation and directs energy back to the bulb for next year's growth. Pruning is generally done annually just after the flowering period when the blooms have faded.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDaffodils like 'Small Talk' thrive in well-draining soil with moderate fertility. A mix of loamy soil, compost, and coarse sand is ideal, ensuring efficient drainage while retaining adequate nutrients. The optimal soil pH for daffodils is between 6.0 and 7.0. Regular amendment with organic matter helps maintain the soil structure and nutrient content suitable for these bulbs.
RepottingDaffodils, including 'Small Talk', typically do not require frequent repotting and can be left undisturbed for several years. They should be repotted or divided every 3-5 years when the clumps become crowded or the flowering diminishes. Repotting is best done after the foliage has died back in late spring or early summer.
Humidity & MistingDaffodils like 'Small Talk' are tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and do not have specific humidity requirements. These plants are quite adaptable and will thrive in the ambient humidity found in most outdoor garden environments without the need for additional humidity control.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in a well-lit area away from direct hot sunlight.
Outdoor
Ensure full to partial sun, shelter from harsh winds, well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleNarcissus 'Small Talk', commonly known as Miniature daffodil, begins its life cycle as a bulb which lies dormant underground during the cold winter months. In late winter or early spring, depending on the climate, the bulb sends up green shoots, followed by the formation of a flower stalk with a bud that unfolds into the characteristic yellow or white trumpet-shaped flower. After flowering, which typically lasts a few weeks, the plant enters a phase of photosynthesis where the leaves collect energy from the sun, which is then stored in the bulb for the next growing season. Once the foliage has died back, the plant returns to a dormant state. Throughout the summer and into the fall, the bulb remains dormant, but it may be using this time to divide and produce offsets, leading to the propagation of new bulbs. The lifecycle repeats the next spring, with the existing bulb and any new offsets producing fresh shoots and blooms.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Narcissus 'Small Talk', also commonly known as Daffodil 'Small Talk', is typically propagated by dividing the bulbs, a process best done in the late summer to early fall after the foliage has died back. Once the foliage has yellowed, carefully dig around the plants to lift the bulbs out of the ground. Rinse off any excess soil and allow the bulbs to dry for a day or two in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Once dry, gently pull apart the clumps of bulbs, being sure to leave a portion of the basal plate—the bottom part of the bulb where the roots grow from—intact on each division. Replant the bulbs at a depth of about 6 inches (approximately 15 centimeters), spaced 3 to 6 inches (about 7 to 15 centimeters) apart, and water them in well. This method encourages a fuller display of blooms in the following spring and helps to rejuvenate older clumps that may have become overcrowded.
