Daffodil Narcissus 'Tracey' (6)
ABOUT
Narcissus 'Tracey' is a captivating plant commonly known as a daffodil. It is characterized by its striking flowers, which are known for their unique and cheerful appearance. The blooms have a central trumpet or cup that is often a different color than the surrounding petals. These cups are typically a vivid hue that contrasts beautifully against the outer petals, which are commonly a soft and bright shade, making the flower very eye-catching. The petals radiate around the cup, creating a star-like shape, and are smooth and sometimes slightly overlapping, adding to the plant's overall elegance. The foliage of Narcissus 'Tracey' is slender and green, emerging from the base of the plant, and the leaves can have a slightly arching habit. The daffodil blooms in the spring and is often associated with the renewal and vibrant energy that the season brings.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae.
Synonyms
Daffodil, Jonquil, Narcissus.
Common names
Narcissus 'Tracey'
ToxicityTo humans
The Narcissus 'Tracey' belongs to the daffodil family which is known to be toxic to humans if ingested. All parts of the daffodil contain toxic alkaloids such as lycorine. Consuming any part of the plant can result in symptoms that include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In severe cases, it can lead to dehydration, an imbalance in electrolytes, and potentially systemic complications. Handling the bulbs can also cause dermatitis in sensitive individuals.
To pets
Daffodils, like Narcissus 'Tracey', are toxic to pets including dogs and cats. If any part of the plant, especially the bulbs, is ingested, it can cause symptoms such as vomiting, salivation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, heart problems, and tremors. Severe cases can lead to significant dehydration, changes in blood pressure, seizures, and even be life-threatening. Immediate veterinary care is recommended if a pet is suspected to have ingested any part of a daffodil.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
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- Enhances Garden Aesthetics: Narcissus 'Tracey', commonly known as daffodil, is known for its vibrant yellow flowers that add a pop of color and beauty to gardens during the spring.
- Easy to Grow: Daffodils are hardy and adaptable, making them a good choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.
- Attracts Pollinators: The bright flowers of the daffodil are attractive to bees and other pollinators, which helps to promote the health of the garden ecosystem.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, daffodils require minimal care, thriving even with little attention or intervention.
- Resistant to Deer and Rodents: Daffodils contain a bitter substance that deters deer and rodents, reducing the risk of damage to the garden by these animals.
- Perennial Growth: As perennials, daffodils return year after year, providing long-term value and enjoyment in the landscape.
- Multiplication Over Time: The bulbs of daffodils can naturally divide and multiply, gradually increasing in number and providing more flowers over the seasons.
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 'Tracey', commonly known as Daffodil, can be crushed and used as a natural dye for fabrics, giving them a subtle yellow hue.
- They can act as a pest repellent in gardens, as some pests are deterred by the scent of Daffodils, thereby protecting nearby plants.
- The flowers can be used in art projects, such as pressing for botanical prints or inclusion in handmade paper for a decorative touch.
- Daffodil bulbs can be used in a science classroom to teach students about plant growth and development from bulbs.
- During social events, Daffodils can be floated in bowls of water as a centerpiece for an elegant and simple table decoration.
- They can be used in scent gardens due to their fragrant flowers, which can create a multisensory experience for visitors.
- The flowers can be used to create natural confetti for celebrations, as they are biodegradable and add a splash of color.
- The sturdy stems of Daffodils can serve as natural supports for weaker-stemmed plants when placed in mixed planting arrangements.
- They can be used in a study on climate change effects on flowering times, since Daffodils are responsive to temperature changes.
- Daffodil flowers could be used in photography as a subject to teach macro photography techniques and the use of natural light.
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 Renewal: The Narcissus, often recognized as the daffodil, is a symbol of rebirth and new beginnings. It is one of the first flowers to bloom in spring, signifying the end of winter and the arrival of a new growth cycle.
- Self-Reflection: Named after the Greek myth of Narcissus, this flower represents self-reflection and introspection, as the myth talks about Narcissus who was so captivated with his own reflection that he drowned in it.
- Vanity and Self-Admiration: Stemming again from the Greek myth, the Narcissus can symbolize excessive self-love and vanity.
- Prosperity and Wealth: In some cultures, the Narcissus is associated with good fortune and wealth, making it a popular gift for new business endeavors or wishing someone prosperity.
- Hope: The bright appearance and early springtime arrival of the flower also makes it a symbol of hope, signifying that brighter days are ahead.
- Respect and Honor: In some Eastern cultures, the Narcissus is also a symbol of respect and honor, and is often used in ceremonies or given as a sign of deep appreciation.
WaterDaffodils, including Narcissus 'Tracey', prefer consistent moisture during the growing season and should be watered thoroughly once a week, ensuring the soil is damp but not waterlogged. This equates to about 1 gallon of water for each square foot of planting area weekly, but always adjust watering according to weather conditions and soil drainage. After blooming ends and the foliage begins to yellow, gradually reduce watering as this indicates the plant is entering dormancy. During this time, excessive water can lead to bulb rot.
LightDaffodils thrive in full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade. The best spot for Narcissus 'Tracey' is a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. High light levels are important during the growing season to ensure vigorous plant growth and optimal flowering.
TemperatureThe ideal temperature for daffodils is between 50 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit, but they can survive temperature dips down to 20 degrees Fahrenheit and can tolerate short periods of temperatures up into the 70s. It's crucial to protect them from hard freezes after they start growing in the spring, as extreme cold can damage the foliage and flowers.
PruningPruning daffodils involves deadheading spent flowers to encourage bulb strength but leaving the foliage until it yellows naturally, which is typically about six weeks after flowering. This allows the plant to photosynthesize and store energy in the bulb. The best time to prune is late spring or early summer when the leaves have died back.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDaffodil 'Tracey' prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH of around 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of two parts loam, one part well-rotted manure or compost, and one part sand or perlite is ideal for providing the necessary drainage and nutrients.
RepottingDaffodils like 'Tracey' typically do not need to be repotted often as they are most commonly grown as perennials outdoors. If grown in containers, repot every 2-3 years in the fall, after the foliage has died back.
Humidity & MistingDaffodils such as 'Tracey' are tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels but prefer moderate humidity. Average room humidity is generally adequate for these plants when grown indoors.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and cooler temps.
Outdoor
Plant bulbs in autumn in fertile, well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleNarcissus 'Tracey', commonly known as the Daffodil 'Tracey', emerges from a bulb that lies dormant underground during winter. In early spring, green shoots rise from the bulb, followed by long, narrow leaves and a central flower stalk. The stalk bears a single, showy flower, typically with a yellow or white perianth and a contrasting trumpet-shaped corona. After blooming, the flower fades and the plant directs its energy into replenishing the bulb as the foliage photosynthesizes. As summer approaches, the leaves yellow and wither, and the plant enters a period of dormancy. The cycle repeats annually, with the bulb producing offsets occasionally, which can develop into new plants.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating Narcissus 'Tracey', commonly known as daffodil, is by bulb division. This process typically takes place in the fall, after the foliage has died back and the bulb has gone dormant. To propagate by bulb division, carefully dig up the bulbs and gently separate any small bulbs, known as offsets, from the mother bulb. These offsets can then be replanted immediately at a depth of about 6 inches (15.24 centimeters) and spaced approximately 4 to 6 inches (10.16 to 15.24 centimeters) apart to allow for adequate room for growth. The new bulbs will develop roots before winter and emerge as flowering plants in the spring.
