Daffodil Narcissus 'Tresamble' (5)
ABOUT
Narcissus 'Tresamble', commonly known as the daffodil, is characterized by its striking flowers which typically bloom in the spring. Each bloom is composed of a central trumpet-shaped corona surrounded by a ring of six petal-like tepals. These are often in contrasting colors with the corona usually being a vibrant shade that may be yellow, orange, or white, while the surrounding tepals tend to be paler or of matching brightness. The daffodil's leaves are long, narrow and slightly grayish-green in color, forming a backdrop that accentuates the bright flowers. They grow in a clump and emerge from a bulb underground. The overall appearance of the daffodil is one of brightness and cheer, signaling the arrival of spring with its vivacious blooms.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Narcissus, Daffodil, Jonquil
Common names
Narcissus 'Tresamble'
ToxicityTo humans
The Narcissus 'Tresamble' is commonly known as the daffodil. Daffodils are toxic to humans if ingested. All parts of the plant contain the alkaloid poison lycorine, with the bulb being the most poisonous part. If someone eats any part of a daffodil, they may experience symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In severe cases, ingesting daffodils can lead to dehydration, low blood pressure, tremors, and cardiac arrhythmias. Handling the bulb can also cause skin irritation in some people.
To pets
The Narcissus 'Tresamble', known as the daffodil, is toxic to pets. All parts of the plant are poisonous, with the bulb being especially harmful. If pets ingest daffodils, they can exhibit symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, drooling, and in severe cases, irregular heartbeats, respiratory depression, convulsions, and even death. There is also a risk of a condition called 'daffodil itch', causing skin irritations, if there's regular contact with the plant's bulbs. Immediate veterinary care is recommended if a pet consumes any part of a daffodil.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1 foot 4-20 inches (30-50 cm)
Spread
1 foot 4-12 inches (30-40 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Decorative Appeal: The Narcissus 'Tresamble', commonly known as daffodil, offers bright yellow blooms that are aesthetically pleasing and a herald of spring.
- Ease of Care: Daffodils are low-maintenance and can thrive with minimal attention, making them ideal for both novice and experienced gardeners.
- Pest Resistance: Daffodils are resistant to many common garden pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- Naturalizing: Daffodils have the ability to spread and naturalize in an area, filling a space with their cheerful blooms over time.
- Longevity: Once established, daffodils can come back year after year, creating a long-lasting display in gardens and landscapes.
- Cut Flower Use: Daffodils are popular cut flowers, known for their ability to brighten up indoor spaces with their springtime colors.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Narcissus 'Tresamble', commonly known as daffodil, can be used in the art of 'hanakotoba', the Japanese language of flowers, to express regard and unequaled love.
- Dried daffodil petals can be infused into wax to create scented candles that carry the fragrance of spring into your home.
- The sap of this plant can be used as a natural glue for small paper projects; however, it should be handled carefully as it can irritate the skin.
- Pressed daffodil flowers can be used in scrapbooking or greeting card making for a 3D textural element and a touch of nature.
- During the Victorian era, daffodils symbolized chivalry and today can be used in themes or as decor in events that aim to evoke a knightly or courtly atmosphere.
- The bulb of the daffodil, specifically, can be ground up and added to natural pest repellents to protect other plants in the garden.
- The sturdy stems of daffodils can be used in basket weaving to add color and a unique pattern to handmade baskets.
- Daffodil flowers can be used in the formulation of non-toxic dyes for fabric and paper, providing a soft yellow hue.
- The scent of daffodils can be captured in potpourri mixes to create a fragrant and inviting atmosphere in drawers or closets.
- Considered an emblem of hope, daffodil arrangements can be placed in environments like hospitals or recovery rooms to provide comfort and a visual uplift.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe daffodil is associated with good fortune and is often used in Feng Shui to attract wealth. Place daffodils in the wealth corner of a home, which is the southeast, to enhance prosperity.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe daffodil is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Self-Admiration: The common name for Narcissus 'Tresamble' is Daffodil. Daffodils are associated with self-admiration due to the Greek myth of Narcissus, a young man who fell in love with his own reflection.
- Renewal: Daffodils are one of the first flowers to bloom in spring, symbolizing the end of the winter and the start of a new season or new beginnings.
- Unrequited Love: In some cultures, daffodils represent unrequited love, again stemming from the story of Narcissus who was so engrossed with himself that he could not love others.
- Chivalry: In the language of flowers, daffodils can also denote chivalry and regard, often given as a sign of respect.
- Eternal Life: Their ability to return each year is sometimes seen as a symbol of eternal life, echoing the cycles of life and death.
WaterDaffodils, including the Narcissus 'Tresamble', prefer consistently moist but not soggy soil. During the growth and blooming period, typically in the spring, water these daffodils thoroughly once a week, providing about 1 gallon of water per square yard of soil. Once the flowers have died back and the plant is going dormant, reduce watering significantly. Overwatering, especially when the bulbs are dormant, can lead to bulb rot. It's also important to ensure that the soil has good drainage to prevent water from pooling around the bulbs.
LightDaffodils like Narcissus 'Tresamble' flourish in full to partial sunlight. The ideal spot for these plants is an area that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Filtering light through deciduous trees is acceptable as it allows the daffodils to get sun before the trees fully leaf out. Avoid heavily shaded areas where they might not bloom well.
TemperatureDaffodils, such as Narcissus 'Tresamble', prefer a temperate climate and are hardy in a temperature range where winters can dip as low as 20°F and summers can reach up to 80°F. The ideal growing temperatures for these daffodils are between 50°F and 60°F. It's important to plant them in an area where they can stay cool during their dormant period in the summer.
PruningPruning daffodils, or Narcissus 'Tresamble', involves removing spent flowers after blooming to prevent seed formation, which can reduce the vigor of the bulbs. Cut back foliage only after it has yellowed and died down naturally, typically about 6 weeks after flowering. This allows the plant to photosynthesize and store energy for the next season. Pruning is not needed at any other time as it can damage the plant's ability to store energy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Daffodils, which is the most common name for Narcissus 'Tresamble', is well-draining, fertile loam with a neutral to slightly acidic pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Amend heavy soils with organic matter, like compost, to improve drainage.
RepottingDaffodils typically do not require frequent repotting and can thrive for several years without being disturbed. They should be repotted only when they become overcrowded, which is usually every 3 to 5 years.
Humidity & MistingDaffodils prefer average humidity levels. They perform well in outdoor conditions with natural atmospheric humidity but do not require high humidity when grown indoors.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright indirect light and cool temps.
Outdoor
Plant in well-draining soil with sun to partial shade.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Narcissus 'Tresamble', commonly known as a daffodil, begins its life cycle when a bulb is planted in well-draining soil in early fall. As winter progresses, the cold period (vernalization) stimulates the development of roots and the formation of shoots. With the arrival of spring, the plant breaks the soil surface, growing into a flowering stalk with a single flower or a cluster of flowers, characterized by a trumpet-shaped corona surrounded by petal-like tepals. After blooming, which typically occurs in the spring, the daffodil's flowers wither, but the plant continues to photosynthesize to replenish the nutrients in the bulb for the next growing season. By early summer, the foliage dies back and the plant enters a period of dormancy during the hotter months. Finally, the cycle repeats itself when the bulb awakens from dormancy the following fall, ready to restart the growth process.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating a Narcissus 'Tresamble', commonly known as a daffodil, is through division of the bulbs. This is typically done in the late summer to early fall, once the foliage has died back, signaling that the plant is dormant. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the clump of bulbs and gently separate them, making sure that each section has at least one growing point or "eye". Replant the bulbs at a depth three times the height of the bulb, spaced about 3 to 6 inches (8 to 15 centimeters) apart, and at least 4 inches (10 centimeters) deep to promote good root development and winter insulation. Water the newly planted bulbs thoroughly to settle the soil around them. This method of propagation is simple and effective, allowing gardeners to increase their daffodil display or share with friends.
