Narcissus 'Toto' (12)
ABOUT
Narcissus 'Toto' is a charming plant, commonly known as the Toto Daffodil. The visual appeal of the Toto Daffodil lies in its delightful, trumpet-shaped flowers which are a hallmark of the Narcissus family. Each bloom is characterized by a central corona surrounded by a ring of six petal-like tepals, creating a star-shaped silhouette from the front. The blooms are usually a cheerful creamy white, and the central trumpet often exhibits a softer lemon-yellow hue, providing a pleasing contrast. The glossy, strap-shaped leaves of the Toto Daffodil are deep green, rising from the base of the stem and providing a fresh backdrop for the delicate blossoms. These leaves are narrow and long, arching gracefully around the flowers. The overall presentation of the Toto Daffodil's flowers and foliage exudes a fresh, springtime aura, which makes them a popular choice for gardeners and a delight in any landscape where they are planted. The Toto Daffodil has a neat and tidy appearance, with flowers typically borne singly atop stiff, upright stems, showcasing their pristine beauty for anyone to admire during their blooming season.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae.
Synonyms
Toto Daffodil, Toto Narcissus.
Common names
Narcissus 'Toto'
ToxicityTo humans
The Narcissus 'Toto' is more commonly known as the daffodil. Daffodils contain toxic alkaloids that can be harmful to humans if ingested. The entire plant, but particularly the bulb, is toxic. If someone eats any part of a daffodil, they may experience symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and sometimes even more severe symptoms like cardiac arrhythmias or central nervous system issues. Serious cases of poisoning can lead to complications and even death, although this is rare. Medical attention should be sought immediately if ingestion is suspected.
To pets
The Narcissus 'Toto', commonly known as the daffodil, is also toxic to pets. If a pet ingests any part of a daffodil, it can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, excessive drooling, and in severe cases, convulsions, low blood pressure, tremors, and cardiac arrhythmias. It's particularly dangerous if a pet digs up and chews on the bulbs. Immediate veterinary care is crucial if a pet is suspected to have ingested daffodil, as it can be potentially fatal.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
6-12 inches (15-30 cm)
Spread
3 inches (7.5 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds beauty to gardens with its delicate white flowers and cheerful yellow cups.
- Pollinator Attraction: Attracts bees and butterflies, which are essential for pollination.
- Low Maintenance: Typically easy to care for, requiring minimal upkeep once established.
- Early Spring Bloomer: One of the first flowers to bloom, signaling the end of winter.
- Naturalizing: Able to spread and naturalize in an area, creating larger displays over time.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, has a level of drought resistance, requiring less water.
- Deer Resistant: Generally not favored by deer, reducing the risk of damage to the garden.
- Longevity: Bulbs can live and flower for many years with proper care.
- Propagates Easily: Can be easily propagated through bulb division, increasing stock.
- Cutting Garden: Suitable for cutting gardens, providing fresh flowers for arrangements.
- Seasonal Interest: Offers interest in the garden during the transitional spring season.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Narcissus 'Toto', commonly known as daffodil, can be used in perfume production, capturing their fresh spring-like fragrance.
- Dried daffodil petals can serve as a natural dye source for textiles, providing a range of yellow hues.
- Floating daffodil blooms in a bowl of water can serve as an organic decorative element for spring-themed gatherings or as a centerpiece.
- Pressed daffodil flowers are utilized in crafting, for instance, to adorn handmade greeting cards or bookmarks.
- The daffodil's bulb can be used as a glue substitute, as it contains a sticky substance that can bond paper and other light materials.
- A study of daffodil chromoplasts can contribute to botanical research and teaching about plant cell structure.
- Narcissus 'Toto' bulbs can be used in a rotation system to clean the soil since some plants are believed to extract pollutants or break them down.
- Photographers may use daffodil fields as a striking natural backdrop for springtime photo shoots.
- Daffodils can be a natural way to deter rodents since some animals avoid their bulbs due to toxic compounds.
- The sequential blooming of different daffodil varieties, including Narcissus 'Toto', can be used by horticulturists to study flowering patterns and plant development.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Narcissus is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Narcissus is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Rebirth and New Beginnings: The Narcissus 'Toto', often referred to as the daffodil, is one of the first flowers to bloom in spring, symbolizing the end of winter and the arrival of new life.
- Unrequited Love: In Greek mythology, Narcissus fell in love with his own reflection, unable to leave it, leading to his death. This story has made the flower a symbol of self-love and unrequited love.
- Hope and Inspiration: Daffodils are often associated with inspiration, creativity, and the inner light that drives away the darkness, symbolizing hope in difficult times.
- Prosperity and Wealth: In some cultures, daffodils are believed to bring good fortune and are often associated with wealth and success.
- Respect and Admiration: Giving someone daffodils can express deep respect and admiration for the recipient.
- Vanity: Due to the Greek myth of Narcissus, the daffodil sometimes signifies excessive self-love and vanity.
- Remembrance: In some traditions, daffodils are commemorated on special occasions to honor those who are absent or have passed on.
WaterDaffodil 'Toto' prefers consistent moisture during the growing season, especially when the shoots, buds, and flowers are developing. Begin watering when the green shoots emerge from the ground, usually providing about 1 inch of water per week. If rainfall is scant, supplement with additional watering to maintain moist soil; avoid overwatering, as daffodils are prone to bulb rot when kept too wet. Once the daffodil has finished blooming, you can gradually reduce watering as the foliage starts to yellow and die back, signaling the plant's entry into dormancy. Daffodil 'Toto' typically does not require watering during the dormant phase unless there is an extended period of dry weather.
LightDaffodil 'Toto' thrives best in full sun, which means at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. However, they can also tolerate partial shade, particularly in regions with very hot climates where some afternoon shade can protect them from intense heat. To ensure good health and optimal blooming, plant daffodils in a location that receives adequate sunlight throughout the day.
TemperatureDaffodil 'Toto' is hardy in temperate climates and can tolerate a range of temperatures. They perform best in temperatures between 50°F and 65°F but can survive in temperatures as low as 20°F and as high as 75°F. During their growth and blooming period in the spring, cooler temperatures are generally preferred to prolong the blooming phase.
PruningDaffodil 'Toto' only requires pruning to remove spent flower heads after blooming to promote a tidy appearance; the foliage should be left intact until it yellows and dies back naturally, which usually takes about six weeks. Cutting back the foliage too early can impair the bulb's ability to store energy for the next growing season. Pruning of the daffodil 'Toto' should therefore be minimal and focused only on deadheading and eventual foliage removal after it has browned.
CleaningNot needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Daffodil 'Toto' is well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A mixture of loamy soil with added organic matter like peat moss or compost will provide the nutrients and drainage needed.
RepottingDaffodil 'Toto' is often grown from bulbs, which should be replanted annually in the fall. If grown in containers, repot every two to three years to refresh the soil and divide bulbs if crowded.
Humidity & MistingDaffodil 'Toto' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does not require any special humidity adjustments when grown outdoors in its preferred climate.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Daffodil 'Toto' in bright, indirect light and cool temperatures indoors.
Outdoor
Plant Daffodil 'Toto' bulbs in fall, in well-drained soil, full sun.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Narcissus 'Toto', commonly known as Toto Daffodil, begins with a dormant bulb that awakens in late winter or early spring. This bulb sends up shoots that develop into slender stalks with strap-like leaves. Alongside the leaves, the bud emerges and unfurls into the classic trumpet-shaped daffodil flower, prominently displaying its white petals and central yellow corona. After blooming, which can last for up to six weeks, the flowers fade and the plant channels its energy into the bulb to store nutrients for the next season. As summer progresses, the foliage yellows and withers, indicating the plant is entering dormancy. The bulb remains underground, dormant through fall and winter, until environmental conditions trigger the start of the new growth cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
The Narcissus 'Toto', commonly known as the daffodil, can be effectively propagated through the division of bulbs, which is the most popular method for this plant. The best time to divide daffodil bulbs is in the late summer to early fall, shortly after the foliage has died back but well before winter sets in. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the daffodil bulbs and gently separate the bulblets, which are the small bulbs that have developed attached to the mother bulb. Each bulblet can be replanted immediately to grow into a new daffodil plant. It's critical to plant the bulbs at a depth of about 6 inches (15 centimeters) and about 3-6 inches (7.5-15 centimeters) apart to ensure proper root development and to avoid overcrowding. After replanting, water thoroughly to help establish the bulblets in their new location. This process allows daffodils to spread and flourish over the years, giving rise to a healthy, blooming garden.
