Daffodil Narcissus 'Trigonometry' (11a)
ABOUT
The Narcissus 'Trigonometry', commonly known as Daffodil 'Trigonometry', presents a captivating display with its distinctive flowers. Each bloom features a central trumpet or cup, which is surrounded by a circle of petal-like segments, often referred to as the perianth. This trumpet is notable for its striking color, which may be a different hue than the surrounding petals, providing a beautiful contrast. The petals radiate outward and may be broad, slightly overlapping each other, giving the flower a full, rounded appearance. The flowers emerge from slender green stalks which rise above the strappy, linear leaves that form a tuft at the plant's base. The leaves are somewhat fleshy, with a deep green color that enhances the visual appeal of the blossoms. Daffodil 'Trigonometry' is prized for its vibrant colors and is often a sign of spring with its early flowering season.
About this plant
- Names
Family
Amaryllidaceae.
Synonyms
Daffodil, Jonquil, Narcissus.
Common names
Narcissus 'Trigonometry'
- Characteristics
Life cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-8
Native area
Europe
Benefits
- General Benefits
- Ornamental Value: Adds aesthetic appeal to gardens with its bright and symmetrical flowers.
- Attracts Pollinators: Invites beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, which help pollinate other plants.
- Drought-Tolerance: Once established, it is relatively tolerant to dry conditions, requiring minimal watering.
- Ease of Care: Generally low-maintenance, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Pest Resistance: Naturally resistant to many pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- Cold Hardy: Can survive in colder climates, withstanding conditions in USDA zone 11a.
- Multiplication: Capable of naturalizing and spreading over time, providing more plants with no extra cost.
- Seasonal Interest: Provides color and interest in the garden during its blooming season, typically in spring.
- Versatility: Suitable for use in various garden designs, including borders, containers, and rock gardens.
- Long Blooming Period: Offers an extended flowering season compared to many other plants.
- 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
- The Narcissus, commonly known as daffodil, can be used as a natural dye source; the petals contain compounds that can tint fabrics or paper a range of yellow or orange hues.
- Daffodils can serve as a pest repellent in gardens since many garden pests, including deer and rodents, are deterred by the toxic compounds found in all parts of the plant.
- They have been utilized in the art of flower arranging to symbolize rebirth and new beginnings, often included in springtime displays and celebrations.
- The bulbs of daffodils can be used in a practice known as "forcing," which allows for the indoor cultivation of the flowers out of season, providing a bloom during the winter months.
- Daffodil flowers can be a source of inspiration for artists and writers, often becoming a muse for poetry, paintings, and other forms of artistic expression.
- The strong, distinctive scent of some daffodil varieties can also be used as a natural air freshener, subtly perfuming indoor spaces without the use of synthetic fragrances.
- Daffodils can be used in educational settings to teach students about plant biology, life cycles, and the process of bulb propagation and growth.
- The structured and geometric patterns found in the daffodil 'Trigonometry' can provide a unique natural example to study patterns and symmetry in math and science classes.
- These flowers are sometimes used in eco-friendly burial practices, where biodegradable containers with daffodil bulbs are planted above interred ashes, symbolizing life after death.
- Discarded daffodil plant material, such as leaves and stems, after seasonal blooms can be composted to enrich soil without the use of chemical fertilizers.
Interesting Facts
- Feng Shui
The Narcissus is not used in Feng Shui practice.
- Zodiac Sign Compitability
The Narcissus is not used in astrology practice.
- Plant Symbolism
- Self-Love: The name "Narcissus" originates from the Greek myth of Narcissus, a beautiful youth who fell in love with his own reflection. Thus, the narcissus flower often symbolizes self-love and vanity.
- New Beginnings: Often associated with the end of winter and the arrival of spring, narcissus flowers (commonly known as daffodils) symbolize rebirth and new beginnings.
- Unrequited Love: In some traditions, the narcissus represents unrequited love, possibly related to the story of Narcissus, who was unable to leave the love of his own reflection for something real.
- Inspiration: Daffodils are also a symbol of inspiration, creativity, and the ability to see beyond the surface, as they are one of the first flowers to bloom in spring, heralding the creative burst of the season.
- Prosperity: In some cultures, daffodils symbolize wealth and prosperity, possibly because of their golden-yellow hues reminiscent of gold coins.
- Fortune: In Chinese culture, the narcissus is often associated with good fortune and is used in celebrations like the Chinese New Year to invite luck and prosperity.
- Respect: Because daffodils do not grow well when combined with other flowers, they represent the need to respect others' boundaries and the value of being in the right company.
- Water
For the Daffodil 'Trigonometry', it is important to maintain consistent moisture during the growing season, especially during active growth and blooming periods. Water the daffodils when the top 2 inches of soil begin to dry out, typically once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions. Provide the plants with about 1 inch of water each time, or approximately 0.623 gallons per square foot per week. Avoid overwatering as it may lead to bulb rot. After blooming, gradually reduce watering as the foliage begins to die back and the plant enters dormancy.
- Light
Daffodils, including the 'Trigonometry' variety, thrive in full sunlight to partial shade. The ideal spot for these flowers is an area that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day. If planted in too much shade, the blooms may not be as vigorous and the plant's overall health could be compromised.
- Temperature
Daffodils like 'Trigonometry' are hardy and can survive in temperatures as low as 20°F before they start growing and can handle light frosts during flowering. They prefer a temperate climate with spring temperatures ranging usually between 50°F and 70°F. Avoid planting them in locations where temperatures exceed 80°F during blooming season as this can shorten the bloom period.
- Pruning
Pruning is not commonly required for Daffodils, including the 'Trigonometry', but it is beneficial to deadhead the flowers once they have faded. Remove the spent blooms by snipping them off at the base to prevent seed formation, which can deplete energy from the bulb. Do not cut the foliage until it has yellowed and died back naturally, as the leaves are needed to gather energy for the next season's bloom.
- Cleaning
As needed
- Soil
The best soil mix for Daffodil 'Trigonometry' should be well-draining with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0 to 7.0. Incorporate organic material like compost or well-rotted manure to ensure good fertility.
- Repotting
Daffodil 'Trigonometry' bulbs should be repotted every 2 to 3 years or when they become overcrowded in their container to ensure continued vigorous growth.
- Humidity & Misting
Daffodil 'Trigonometry' thrives in average room humidity levels, without the need for any special humidity adjustments.
- Suitable locations
Indoor
Provide bright light, cool temperatures, and regular watering to Daffodils indoors.
Outdoor
Plant in fall, full sun to partial shade, ensure well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
- Life cycle
Narcissus 'Trigonometry' (11a), commonly known as daffodil, begins its life cycle as a bulb, which is a storage organ for nutrients and energy. In early spring, the bulb sends up shoots that develop into long, narrow leaves and a central flower stalk. The stalk bears a single flower, typically with a star-shaped arrangement of petals, and a central trumpet-shaped corona. After flowering, the daffodil sets seed, which if dispersed, can grow to form new bulbs over several years. The foliage eventually dies back in late spring to early summer as the plant enters dormancy. During this dormant period, the bulb remains underground, conserving energy to initiate the next cycle of growth in the following spring.
- Propogation
Propogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Narcissus 'Trigonometry', more commonly known as daffodil, can be most effectively propagated by bulb division. This is typically done in the late summer to early fall, after the foliage has died back but well before the ground freezes. To propagate by division, dig up the daffodil bulbs and gently separate them by hand, ensuring that each division has at least one growth point. Replant the bulbs immediately at a depth of about 6 inches (15 centimeters) and spaced approximately 6 inches (15 centimeters) apart. Water the newly planted bulbs thoroughly to establish them. This form of asexual reproduction ensures that the new plants will be genetically identical to the parent and is the most popular because it is straightforward and typically very successful in producing blooming daffodils the following spring.