Daffodil Narcissus 'Stint' (5)
ABOUT
The Narcissus 'Stint' is commonly known as a daffodil. This variety showcases the classic daffodil's cheerful appearance with trumpet-shaped flowers sporting a central corona surrounded by a ring of petals. The flowers are typically bright yellow, a color that is often associated with spring and symbolizes rebirth and new beginnings. Each bloom is borne atop a sturdy, upright stem that emerges from a clump of strap-like, green leaves. The foliage provides a fresh, verdant backdrop that accentuates the vibrant yellow of the flowers. The corona may have a slightly different hue or even a touch of orange, adding to the contrast and visual interest of the blooms. This particular variety blooms in early to mid-spring, contributing its splash of color to the season's palette. As with other daffodils, the 'Stint' exudes a gentle fragrance that is a welcome addition to any garden or bouquet.
About this plant
- Names
Family
Amaryllidaceae.
Synonyms
Daffodil, Jonquil, Narcissus.
Common names
Narcissus 'Stint'
- Toxicity
To humans
The Narcissus 'Stint', commonly known as daffodil, is toxic to humans. All parts of the daffodil contain an alkaloid called lycorine, with the bulb being the most poisonous part. If ingested, it can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In severe cases, it can lead to dehydration, an imbalance in electrolytes, and even cardiac arrhythmias or convulsions. Handling the bulbs may also cause skin irritation in some individuals.
To pets
The Narcissus 'Stint', known as the daffodil, is toxic to pets. All parts of the plant, particularly the bulb, are poisonous. Consumption can lead to symptoms including vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and drooling in pets. In severe cases, ingestion may result in cardiac arrhythmias, respiratory depression, convulsions, and even death. It's important to prevent pets from ingesting any part of the daffodil.
- Characteristics
Life cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1 foot 6 inches (45.72 centimeters)
Spread
0 foot 6 inches (15.24 centimeters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Europe
Benefits
- General Benefits
- Ornamental Appeal: Narcissus 'Stint', commonly known as daffodil, has a vibrant yellow bloom that enhances the aesthetic of gardens and landscapes.
- Easy to Grow: Daffodils are hardy and adapt well to a variety of soil conditions, making them easy to cultivate for both beginners and experienced gardeners.
- Spring Bloom: They are one of the first flowers to bloom in spring, signaling the end of winter and adding early color to gardens.
- Perennial Growth: As a perennial plant, daffodils return each year, providing a long-term investment in the garden’s beauty.
- Resistant to Pests: Daffodils are known to be resistant to many pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- 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
- Dye production: The flowers of Narcissus 'Stint' can be used in natural dye making, imparting a soft yellow hue to fabrics and textiles.
- Perfumery: The scent of narcissus flowers is sometimes used in perfumes and fragrances, giving them a fresh and green floral note.
- Gardening companion planting: Narcissus can deter certain pests like rodents and deer, protecting neighboring vegetable and flower beds.
- Decorative displays: Dried narcissus flowers can be used in decorative arrangements or potpourri to add fragrance and visual interest to a room.
- Floating decorations: Individual narcissus blooms can float in bowls of water to create simple, elegant table centerpieces or décor.
- Biodegradable confetti: Petals of the Narcissus 'Stint' can be used as natural, biodegradable confetti for events and celebrations.
- Eco-friendly burial: Narcissus bulbs are sometimes planted on graves as an eco-friendly alternative to cut flowers, representing rebirth and new beginnings.
- Photography: The striking appearance of Narcissus 'Stint' makes it a popular subject for botanical photography and nature-inspired art.
- Wedding bouquets: The soft, pastel colors of narcissus flowers can add a romantic touch to spring wedding bouquets or decorations.
- Culinary garnish: While not commonly eaten, the petals of some narcissus varieties could be used to garnish desserts and drinks, only when sure of non-toxicity.
Interesting Facts
- Feng Shui
The Narcissus is associated with wealth and good fortune in Feng Shui. Place it in the wealth corner of your home or office, which is the southeast, to attract abundance and prosperity.
- Zodiac Sign Compitability
The Narcissus is not used in astrology practice.
- Plant Symbolism
- Self-love: The Narcissus flower, commonly known as 'Daffodil', often symbolizes self-love due to the Greek mythology story of Narcissus who fell in love with his own reflection.
- Renewal: Daffodils are one of the first blooms of spring, making them a symbol of rebirth and new beginnings.
- Vanity: The myth of Narcissus also leads the Daffodil to be a symbol of vanity and excessive self-admiration.
- Prosperity: Due to their bright, golden color and springtime blooming, Daffodils can signify wealth, good fortune, and prosperity.
- Uncertainty: In some traditions, Daffodils can represent uncertainty or unrequited love, again stemming from the story of Narcissus who loved only himself.
- Water
Daffodils, including the Narcissus 'Stint', should be watered deeply so that the water reaches the roots. During the growing season, they typically require about an inch of water per week, which can be attained by providing 0.623 gallons per square yard weekly. When the daffodils are in bloom, ensure consistent moisture to support their full growth. Cut back on watering once the flowers have faded and the leaves start to turn yellow, indicating the plant is entering dormancy. Overwatering or allowing the bulbs to sit in waterlogged soil can lead to rot, so it is essential to ensure good drainage.
- Light
Daffodils thrive in areas that offer full sun to partial shade. Ideally, plant Narcissus 'Stint' where they can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. However, they can tolerate light afternoon shade, especially in regions with very hot spring weather. The best spot for these flowers would be an area that reflects their natural woodland edge or open meadow habitat, with bright morning light and protection from the intense afternoon sun.
- Temperature
Daffodils, including the Narcissus 'Stint', prefer moderate temperatures and can survive in USDA hardiness zones 3 through 8, equivalent to a minimum temperature of -40 degrees Fahrenheit to a maximum of 20 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature range for daffodil growth and flowering is between 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. It's important to plant the bulbs in the fall, several weeks before the ground freezes, allowing them to establish roots before winter.
- Pruning
Pruning daffodils, like the Narcissus 'Stint', involves removing spent flower heads after blooming to prevent seed formation, which can direct energy away from the bulb. Do not cut the foliage until it turns yellow and wilts naturally, usually about six weeks after flowering, as the leaves are essential for photosynthesis. Pruning, in this case, is primarily deadheading and foliage management, done annually after the plant has finished blooming.
- Cleaning
As needed
- Soil
The Daffodil 'Stint' thrives best in well-draining, sandy loam with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of two parts loam, one part sand, and one part compost or well-rotted manure creates an ideal growing medium.
- Repotting
Daffodil 'Stint' typically does not require frequent repotting. Bulbs should be lifted and divided every 3-5 years to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding.
- Humidity & Misting
Daffodils, including the 'Stint' variety, are tolerant of most humidity levels as they are generally adaptable. However, they prefer average humidity conditions, similar to what is found outdoors in their growing season.
- Suitable locations
Indoor
Provide bright light, cool temperatures, and good air circulation for indoor Daffodil 'Stint'.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade, in well-drained soil for outdoor Daffodil 'Stint'.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
- Life cycle
The life cycle of Narcissus 'Stint', also known as Daffodil 'Stint', begins with a bulb which dormantly contains the embryo of the plant. In early to mid-spring, growth is initiated as temperatures rise, resulting in the emergence of strap-shaped leaves and a central flower stalk. The flower stalk matures, and the signature daffodil flower blooms, typically displaying a single flower with a central corona surrounded by petal-like tepals. After flowering, the plant undergoes pollination, potentially setting seed if pollinators are present and successful. Following the bloom, the foliage photosynthesizes, storing energy back into the bulb for the next growing season, and then dies back as the plant enters a period of dormancy during the summer. The cycle resumes the following spring when favorable conditions trigger the growth of new foliage and flowers from the bulb.
- Propogation
Propogation time
Spring to early summer
The Narcissus 'Stint', commonly known as daffodil, is typically propagated through division of bulbs, which is the most popular method for this plant. The ideal time for this process is after the foliage has died down in late spring to early summer. During this time, the bulbs are dormant and less likely to suffer damage from the division process. To propagate, carefully dig up the mature bulbs and gently separate the smaller offset bulbs, which are also known as bulbils, from the parent bulb. Replant these offsets immediately at a depth approximately three times the height of the bulb, which is generally around 6 inches (about 15 centimeters), ensuring they have ample space for root development. Water the newly planted bulbs well to help establish them. By the following spring, these offsets will have developed roots and foliage, and with time, they will mature into flowering bulbs.