Daffodil Narcissus 'Stratosphere' (7)
ABOUT
The Narcissus 'Stratosphere', commonly known as the Daffodil, presents a cheerful appearance, notable for its bright and showy flowers. These daffodils bloom with large, trumpet-shaped crowns that are typically a vivid yellow or sometimes a lighter cream color. The trumpets are surrounded by a ring of petal-like segments, often referred to as the perianth, which may present the same yellow hue or a paler shade, providing a delightful contrast. The blooms each consist of a central cup or corona that is frilled or ruffled at the edge, giving it a distinct and decorative look. The flowers usually have one bloom per stem, yet they are commonly seen in clusters, creating a lush visual impact in garden settings. The foliage of Narcissus 'Stratosphere' consists of long, narrow leaves that are a deep green color. The leaves grow from the base of the plant and provide a grass-like backdrop for the attractive flowers. This combination of striking flowers and simple leaves makes the daffodil a popular choice for those seeking to add a splash of spring color to their outdoor spaces.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae.
Synonyms
Daffodil, Jonquil, Narcissus.
Common names
Narcissus 'Stratosphere'
ToxicityTo humans
The common name for Narcissus 'Stratosphere' is daffodil. All parts of the daffodil plant are toxic to humans if ingested. The primary toxic agents are lycorine and other alkaloids, which can cause symptoms including nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In severe cases, ingesting daffodil parts can lead to dehydration, convulsions, and potentially even coma. Handling the bulbs may also cause skin irritation due to calcium oxalate crystals.
To pets
The common name for Narcissus 'Stratosphere' is daffodil, and it is toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. Ingestion of any part of the daffodil can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and in severe cases, cardiac arrhythmias or respiratory depression. The bulbs are particularly toxic and can cause more serious illness than the flowers or stems. If a pet consumes daffodil, immediate veterinary attention is recommended.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1-1.5 feet [30-45 cm]
Spread
0.5 feet [15 cm]
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Decorative Appeal: The Narcissus 'Stratosphere', commonly known as the daffodil, has striking flowers that can enhance the aesthetic of gardens and landscapes.
- Easy to Grow: Daffodils are known for being hardy and easy to cultivate, making them suitable for novice gardeners.
- Spring Blooming: They're one of the first plants to bloom in spring, bringing early color to the garden after the winter months.
- Naturalizing: Daffodils have the ability to naturalize, meaning they can spread and return each year with minimal maintenance.
- Resistance to Pests: Daffodils are resistant to many pests, which helps protect not only them but surrounding plants as well.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, daffodils have good tolerance to periods of low rainfall.
- Cut Flower Use: Daffodils have a long vase life, making them excellent flowers for arrangements and bouquets.
- Symbolism and Tradition: Daffodils are associated with spring festivals and are often symbolic of rebirth and new beginnings.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Narcissus 'Stratosphere', commonly known as daffodil, can be used in dye production. The flowers, especially the yellow ones, contain pigments that can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics.
- Daffodil bulbs can be used to repel rodents from gardens as they contain toxic substances that deter these animals.
- The stems of daffodils can be included in paper making processes. They provide cellulose fiber which can assist in creating handcrafted papers.
- The daffodil is a symbol of cancer charities worldwide, and is used to raise awareness and funds for cancer research during fundraising campaigns.
- Dried daffodil petals can serve as a component in potpourri mixtures, adding a spring fragrance to a room when fresh flowers are no longer in bloom.
- Daffodil extracts, due to their strong fragrance, can be used in the fragrance industry for creating perfumes and scented oils.
- As a subject in photography and painting, the aesthetic of daffodils can be harnessed to explore themes of rebirth and new beginnings in art.
- In companion planting, daffodils can be planted around fruit trees and vegetable gardens as they deter deer and other herbivores with their toxic traits.
- Narcissus 'Stratosphere' can be used in educational settings, such as biology classes, to teach students about plant reproduction and bulb growth.
- The plant can be used in landscaping to prevent soil erosion, as their roots help to hold the soil together on slopes and banks.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Daffodil is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Daffodil is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Rebirth and New Beginnings: The Narcissus ‘Stratosphere’, commonly known as Daffodil, often blooms in early spring, symbolizing the end of winter and the advent of new life and growth.
- Unrequited Love: In Greek mythology, the story of Narcissus, who fell in love with his own reflection, gives rise to the association of Daffodils with unreturned love.
- Inspiration and Creativity: The bright and vibrant bloom of the Daffodil is thought to stimulate creative thoughts and inspire artistic endeavors.
- Self-Esteem and Self-Love: Reflecting the myth of Narcissus, Daffodils can symbolize self-appreciation and the importance of self-love.
- Hope and Renewal: The daffodil's ability to return each spring is a powerful symbol of hope and the promise of better times ahead.
- Prosperity: Some cultures believe the Daffodil to be an indicator of incoming wealth, perhaps owing to its gold-like color and lush appearance.
- Respect and Regard: Gifting Daffodils is a sign of high regard and respect for someone, as it is believed the flower brings happiness.
WaterDaffodils, including the Narcissus 'Stratosphere', prefer to be watered deeply but infrequently to mimic the natural environment in which they thrive. During the growing season, especially when you see sprouts and flowers, water them thoroughly once a week with about 1 gallon per square foot. After blooming, reduce the watering gradually as the foliage begins to die back. It is crucial not to overwater, as daffodils are prone to bulb rot when kept too wet, so let the soil dry out slightly between waterings. In fall, if there isn't sufficient rain, water the bulbs once to help them establish roots.
LightThe ideal light conditions for daffodils is full sun to partial shade. They bloom best when they receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. A spot that gets morning sunlight but is shaded from the intense afternoon sun could also work well, which helps to prolong the blooms.
TemperatureDaffodils are hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures but typically prefer when the weather is between 50 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive winter chills down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit but should be protected if temperatures dip below this. During active growth and bloom times, keep them in the ideal range for healthy development.
PruningPruning daffodils typically involves deadheading the spent flowers to maintain plant vigor and aesthetics. Do this immediately after the blooms fade but leave the foliage intact until it turns yellow and withers, which usually happens by late spring or early summer. Foliage should never be cut back while still green, as this can weaken the bulb for the next season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDaffodil 'Stratosphere' thrives best in well-draining soil with a mix of loam, sand, and compost. The ideal pH for daffodils is slightly acidic to neutral, around pH 6.0 to 7.0. Amend heavy soils with organic matter to improve drainage.
RepottingDaffodil 'Stratosphere' typically does not need frequent repotting. These bulbs can be left in the ground to naturalize for several years. If grown in containers, repotting every 2-3 years or when the container is crowded is adequate.
Humidity & MistingDaffodil 'Stratosphere' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does not require any special humidity conditions for optimal growth. They do well in the typical outdoor humidity found in their growing zones.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Plant bulbs in pots with drainage holes and place in a cool, bright spot.
Outdoor
Plant bulbs 3 times their height deep; in well-drained soil and full sun.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of a Daffodil 'Stratosphere' begins when a bulb is planted in well-drained, fertile soil, preferably in the fall before the ground freezes. In late winter to early spring, green shoots emerge from the bulb as temperatures rise. As the plant matures, a single flower stalk grows upright, and a bud develops at the top, which then blooms into the characteristic daffodil flower, usually in the early to mid-spring. After flowering, the plant undergoes a period of photosynthesis, where the green leaves produce energy that is stored back in the bulb for next year's growth. Once the leaves yellow and die back, the plant enters a dormant stage during the summer months, with the bulb lying inactive underground. The cycle begins again the next growing season when temperatures drop and the bulb breaks dormancy to send up new shoots.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Narcissus 'Stratosphere' commonly known as Daffodil, is most commonly propagated by dividing its bulbs. This process is best done in the late summer to early fall after the leaves have died back, signaling that the plant is dormant. To propagate, carefully dig up the clumps of bulbs and gently separate the individual bulbs from the main clump. Make sure each bulb has a portion of the base plate, which is necessary for generating roots. Replant the bulbs at a depth three times the height of the bulb, typically about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) deep, in well-draining soil. Space the bulbs about 5 to 6 inches (13 to 15 centimeters) apart to ensure ample room for growth. Water the newly planted bulbs thoroughly to help establish them in their new location.
