Daffodil Narcissus 'Spellbinder' (1)
ABOUT
Narcissus 'Spellbinder' is a captivating flowering plant that showcases stunning, trumpet-shaped blooms. Its flowers are primarily characterized by their bright, cheery appearance with petals that spread open to reveal a contrasting, ruffled cup in the center. The petals emanate a creamy-white color that seamlessly blends to a soft, buttery yellow at the base, which is where the cup starts. This central cup initially appears a richer, sun-kissed yellow tone, distinguishing it from the softer hue of the surrounding petal segments. The blooms of Narcissus 'Spellbinder' carry a delicate and fresh fragrance, adding an additional layer of sensory delight to gardens or floral displays. The flowers are usually borne on singular, erect stalks that emerge from the plant's base, and each stalk typically supports a single, prominent bloom that commands attention. The foliage of this plant consists of slender, linear leaves that are a deep green. These leaves are somewhat erect and arch slightly, forming a backdrop that accentuates the beauty of the blossoms. The plant's overall appearance is one that exemplifies the cheerful essence of spring, making it a popular choice for planting in gardens or as cut flowers for indoor appreciation.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Daffodil, Jonquil, Narcissus.
Common names
Narcissus 'Spellbinder'.
ToxicityTo humans
The Daffodil, including the 'Spellbinder' cultivar, is toxic to humans. All parts of the plant contain toxic alkaloids, with the bulb being the most poisonous. If ingested, symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In more severe cases, ingesting daffodil bulbs could lead to cardiac arrhythmias, low blood pressure, tremors, or convulsions. Handling the bulbs may also cause dermatitis in some individuals.
To pets
The Daffodil, including the 'Spellbinder' cultivar, is also toxic to pets. If a pet ingests any part of a daffodil, symptoms of poisoning can include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and sometimes excessive salivation. In severe cases, more serious symptoms such as cardiac arrhythmias, low blood pressure, tremors, or seizures may occur. The bulbs of the daffodils are particularly toxic and should be kept out of reach of pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
0.5 feet (15 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Decorative Appeal: The plant features striking white blossoms that add aesthetic value to gardens and landscapes.
- Easy to Grow: Narcissus 'Spellbinder' is known for being fairly low-maintenance, requiring minimal care.
- Spring Blooming: It produces flowers in early spring, offering an early burst of color after winter.
- Perennial Growth: As a perennial, it returns year after year, reducing the need for replanting.
- Naturalizing: This plant can spread over time, creating larger displays without additional planting.
- Resistance to Pests: Narcissus 'Spellbinder' has a natural resistance to many common garden pests, including deer and rodents.
- Drought Tolerance: It is moderately tolerant of drought conditions once established, making it suitable for various climates.
- Companion Planting: Can be planted with other spring bulbs and perennials to create diverse and attractive garden arrangements.
- Cut Flowers: The blossoms of Narcissus 'Spellbinder' are suitable for cutting and using in floral arrangements.
- Symbolic Meaning: Often associated with rebirth and new beginnings, making it a popular choice for celebratory gardens and landscapes.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dye Production: The flowers of the Daffodil 'Spellbinder' can be used to produce a natural yellow or orange dye for textiles.
- Eco-friendly Rodent Repellent: Planting Daffodil 'Spellbinder' in gardens or borders can help deter rodents, as they are often averse to the scent of the bulbs.
- Crafting: The dried flower heads of Daffodil 'Spellbinder' can be used in floral arrangements or wreaths for a rustic, natural look.
- Wedding Decor: Daffodil 'Spellbinder' is used for its aesthetic value in creating romantic and whimsical wedding flower arrangements and decorations.
- Photography Prop: The Daffodil 'Spellbinder' serves as an eye-catching prop in springtime photography shoots due to its vibrant and energetic bloom.
- Garden Companions: Planting Daffodil 'Spellbinder' with other spring bulbs can create compelling color contrasts and help with garden design planning.
- Mood Enhancer: The bright and cheerful bloom of Daffodil 'Spellbinder' is used in horticultural therapy to uplift spirits and improve mental well-being.
- Fragrance Extraction: The scent of Daffodil 'Spellbinder' can be captured and used in homemade potpourris or natural room fragrances.
- Symbolic Use: The Daffodil 'Spellbinder' can symbolize new beginnings, making it an ideal gift for events like graduations or new business openings.
- Seasonal Celebrations: Daffodil 'Spellbinder' is used in festivals that welcome spring, such as at Easter time or during the Persian New Year, Nowruz.
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: As a spring-blooming flower, the daffodil symbolizes the end of winter and the arrival of new life and fresh starts, fitting with the seasonal transition.
- Prosperity: Traditionally, the daffodil is associated with good fortune and the arrival of wealth, especially when it is the first to bloom in spring.
- Hope: The bright appearance of the daffodil brings a sense of hope and optimism, signaling brighter days ahead.
- Inspiration: The striking bloom is often seen as a muse for creativity and artistic endeavors, reflecting the myth of Narcissus from which its name is derived.
- Self-Reflection: Linked to the Greek myth of Narcissus, the daffodil can represent self-reflection, and in some interpretations, vanity or self-obsession.
- Respect and Admiration: A bouquet of daffodils is sometimes given to express great respect and unrequited love, though it should be abundant as a single bloom can convey misfortune.
WaterDaffodils, including the Narcissus 'Spellbinder', require moderate watering. During the growing season, water your daffodils thoroughly once a week, ensuring the soil is moist to a depth of approximately 6 inches. They need about 1 gallon per square yard each week, depending on the soil type and weather conditions. It's crucial to reduce watering once the flowers have faded and the leaves start to yellow, signaling the end of their growth cycle. Overwatering can lead to bulb rot, so ensure the soil is well-draining.
LightDaffodils, including the Narcissus 'Spellbinder', thrive in full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade. The ideal spot for these plants is in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. However, they can still perform well if they get dappled sunlight throughout the day. Avoid planting them in deep shade as this will result in reduced flowering.
TemperatureDaffodils like the Narcissus 'Spellbinder' prefer cooler temperatures and can survive winter temperatures down to about 15 degrees Fahrenheit. They perform best when the spring temperatures range between 50 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Extreme heat above 90 degrees Fahrenheit can damage the plants and inhibit flower development.
PruningDaffodils, such as the Narcissus 'Spellbinder', don't require traditional pruning but do require deadheading and the removal of spent flower stems. After the blooms fade, cut back the dead flower heads to prevent seed formation. Leave the foliage until it turns yellow and wilts, which is typically about six weeks after flowering. This allows the plant to store energy in the bulb for the next season. Pruning is generally done once flowering has ended.
CleaningNot needed
SoilThe best soil mix for the Daffodil 'Spellbinder' is well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. They thrive in soil with a pH between 6.0 to 7.0. A mix containing loam, peat, and perlite can provide the right structure and nutrients.
RepottingDaffodils, including the 'Spellbinder' variety, are typically grown from bulbs and do not need frequent repotting. They should be replanted every 3 to 5 years to avoid overcrowding and to rejuvenate the soil.
Humidity & MistingDaffodil 'Spellbinder' tolerates a range of humidity levels but does not require high humidity. Average room humidity is suitable, as long as the soil moisture is adequately maintained without over-watering.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and keep soil moist.
Outdoor
Plant bulbs in autumn, full sun to partial shade, in well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of the Narcissus 'Spellbinder', commonly known as the daffodil, begins with bulb planting in the autumn before the ground freezes. After a period of winter dormancy, the bulb sends up shoots in early spring as soil temperatures rise. The shoots develop into stems and leaves, and the flower bud emerges, eventually blooming into the characteristic trumpet-shaped daffodil flower. After flowering, the plant undergoes a period of photosynthesis to replenish the bulb's energy reserves, while the foliage remains green. Once the leaves yellow and die back, the bulb enters a period of dormancy during the hotter summer months. The cycle repeats each year, with bulbs potentially dividing to produce offsets that will grow into new plants.
PropogationPropogation time
Early Spring
The Narcissus 'Spellbinder', commonly known as the Daffodil 'Spellbinder', is typically propagated by dividing and replanting the bulbs. The best time for this is late summer to autumn, after the foliage has died back but before the ground freezes. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the clumps of bulbs and gently separate them, making sure that each section has at least one bulb with foliage attached. The bulbs should then be planted at a depth of about 6 inches (15 centimeters), spaced 3 to 6 inches (7.5 to 15 centimeters) apart, in well-drained soil with sufficient sunlight. Water the newly planted bulbs thoroughly to help establish their root system. This method leverages the plant's natural reproduction cycle, ensuring genetically identical offspring and a shared resilience found in the parent plant.
