Daffodil Narcissus 'Twinkling Yellow' (7)
ABOUT
Narcissus 'Twinkling Yellow', commonly known as daffodil, is a perennial plant known for its striking floral display. The plant produces cheerful yellow flowers that stand out in the spring garden. Each bloom consists of a central trumpet-shaped corona surrounded by a ring of six petal-like tepals. The corona is typically a deeper or richer yellow than the tepals, providing a delightful contrast that catches the eye. The flowers of 'Twinkling Yellow' daffodils are known for their bright coloration and are often borne singly atop sturdy, upright stems. The foliage is green, slender, and strap-like, emerging from the base of the plant. It creates a lush background for the sunny blooms, and the arrangement of the leaves is such that they form a neat, linear clump. This variety of daffodil is appreciated for its durability and ability to naturalize, spreading cheer throughout gardens as it gradually multiplies and forms larger clumps over the years. The leaves and stems exude a refreshing, green appearance that complements the garden even when the plant is not in bloom. Overall, Narcissus 'Twinkling Yellow' is a radiant and elegant plant that brings a classic charm and a pop of color to spring landscapes with its vibrant yellow flowers. These blooms are a welcoming sign of the changing seasons and are often associated with the brightness and renewal that springtime brings.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Daffodil, Narcissus, Jonquil.
Common names
Narcissus 'Twinkling Yellow'.
ToxicityTo humans
Daffodil is considered poisonous to humans. All parts of the daffodil contain toxic alkaloids, primarily lycorine. Ingesting any part of the plant can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to cardiac arrhythmias, low blood pressure, tremors, convulsions, and in extreme situations, can be life-threatening. Care should be taken to avoid ingesting any part of the daffodil plant.
To pets
Daffodil is toxic to pets. Like in humans, all parts of the daffodil, including the bulb, contain lycorine and other toxic alkaloids that can cause vomiting, salivation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, heart arrhythmias, convulsions, and serious cardiac issues. Ingestion can be fatal in severe cases. It is important to prevent pets from accessing any part of the daffodil to avoid poisoning.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1 foot 3 inches (38 centimeters)
Spread
6 inches (15 centimeters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Narcissus 'Twinkling Yellow', commonly known as daffodil, attracts bees and butterflies which are essential for pollination.
- Low Maintenance: Daffodils require minimal care once established, making them an ideal choice for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Deer and Rodent Resistant: Their bulb and foliage have a repellant taste, which deters deer and rodents from eating them.
- Spring Bloom: They provide early spring color, often being one of the first flowers to bloom as a herald of spring.
- Naturalizing: Daffodils have the ability to spread and naturalize an area, creating a more filled-out and natural appearance over time.
- Longevity: They are perennial and often return for several years with minimal maintenance, offering long-term garden interest.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, they can withstand periods of low water, making them suitable for drier climates or water-wise gardens.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Cut Flower Arrangements: Daffodil 'Twinkling Yellow' is sought after for its vibrant color and is often used in cut flower arrangements, brightening up indoor spaces with its spring-like appearance.
- Photography Subject: Due to its unique color and shape, the Daffodil 'Twinkling Yellow' can be an excellent subject for photographers, especially those focusing on botanical and nature photography.
- Wedding Decor: With its cheerful yellow blooms, the Daffodil 'Twinkling Yellow' can be used in wedding bouquets or as table centerpieces to add a touch of spring to the event.
- Natural Dye: The petals of the Daffodil 'Twinkling Yellow' may be boiled to create a natural yellow dye for fabrics or paper, giving crafters an organic option for their projects.
- Educational Tool: Botany and horticulture educators might use the Daffodil 'Twinkling Yellow' to teach students about plant biology, hybrid cultivation, and bulb growth cycles.
- Garden Pest Repellant: Planting Daffodil 'Twinkling Yellow' in a garden can serve as a natural deterrent for certain rodents and deer, which tend to avoid daffodils due to their toxic properties.
- Symbolic Gift: Since daffodils symbolize rebirth and new beginnings, the Daffodil 'Twinkling Yellow' can be gifted on occasions representing fresh starts such as graduations or new jobs.
- Artistic Inspiration: Artists may use the unique coloration and form of the Daffodil 'Twinkling Yellow' as inspiration for paintings, drawings, and other forms of artwork.
- Culinary Garnish: Although not edible, the Daffodil 'Twinkling Yellow' flowers can be used as a non-toxic decorative garnish for dishes at upscale restaurants, provided they are removed before consumption.
- Landscape Contrast: In landscape design, the Daffodil 'Twinkling Yellow' can be used alongside plants with dark foliage or flowers to create an attractive contrast and focal point in gardens.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Daffodil is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Daffodil is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Self-love: Named after the Greek figure Narcissus, who fell in love with his own reflection, this plant represents self-appreciation and care.
- Renewal: As a spring-blooming flower, it symbolizes rebirth and new beginnings.
- Optimism: The bright 'Twinkling Yellow' hue of this Narcissus variety embodies positivity and hope.
- Inner Reflection: The nodding heads of the flowers suggest introspection and contemplation.
- Vanity: Derived from the Narcissus myth, this plant also symbolizes excessive self-admiration and vanity.
- Wealth: In some cultures, the vivid yellow color is associated with prosperity and good fortune.
- Respect: Giving someone this flower can signal deep respect and acknowledgment of their worth.
WaterDaffodils, including the 'Twinkling Yellow' variety, should be watered thoroughly at planting and kept evenly moist during their active growth in the spring. Once established, they require about 1 inch of water per week, either from rainfall or supplemental watering. When watering, make sure to soak the soil to a depth of at least 6 inches, which encourages deep root growth. During the dormant period, after the foliage has died back, little to no watering is necessary. Over-watering can lead to bulb rot, so ensure good drainage and allow the soil to dry out somewhat between watering sessions.
LightDaffodils prefer full sun to light shade. The 'Twinkling Yellow' daffodil will thrive in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. If planted in too much shade, the flowers may not perform optimally. They are adaptable to a variety of lighting situations but bear in mind that too little light can result in diminished blooming.
TemperatureDaffodils like the 'Twinkling Yellow' are cold-hardy and can withstand winter temperatures down to about 5°F. The ideal temperature range for growing daffodils is between 50°F and 65°F during their growth period. Avoid planting in areas where temperatures exceed 80°F for prolonged periods, as excessive heat can adversely affect bulb health and flowering.
PruningDaffodils like 'Twinkling Yellow' do not require traditional pruning. Deadhead spent blooms to maintain a tidy appearance and prevent seed production which can divert energy from bulb development. Leave the foliage intact until it turns yellow and dies back naturally, as this period allows the daffodil to photosynthesize and store energy for the next year. Cutting back the green leaves too early can harm the plant’s ability to bloom the following season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDaffodils prefer well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. The best soil mix can be a combination of loam, sand, and compost or well-rotted manure to provide nutrients and improve drainage.
RepottingDaffodils typically do not need to be repotted often as they are perennial bulbs. They can be left in the ground or in a pot for several years until they become overcrowded, at which point they should be divided and replanted.
Humidity & MistingDaffodils prefer moderate humidity levels; however, they are not particularly humidity-sensitive and can tolerate the varying conditions found in most outdoor garden environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and keep soil slightly moist.
Outdoor
Plant in well-drained soil with full to partial sun exposure.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Narcissus 'Twinkling Yellow', commonly known as daffodil, begins with a dormant bulb, which typically stays underground during the off-season. Upon the arrival of spring, the bulb activates, sending shoots above ground that develop into sturdy stems and iconic yellow flowers. After blooming, the plant undergoes pollination, potentially with the help of insects, leading to seed formation for propagation. Once the flowering period is over, the foliage photosynthesizes and stores energy back into the bulb for the next season. As summer progresses, the leaves yellow and wither, marking the end of the active growth phase and the beginning of another dormancy period. The bulb remains underground until the next spring cycle starts, repeating the growth process anew.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The Narcissus 'Twinkling Yellow', also known as the daffodil, is typically propagated by bulb division, which is a popular method due to its simplicity and effectiveness. This process is best carried out in late summer to early fall, after the foliage has died back. The bulbs are gently dug up from the soil and the offsets, which are the small bulbs that form at the base of a mature bulb, are carefully separated. These offsets can then be replanted immediately at a depth of about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters), spaced 3 to 6 inches (7.5 to 15 centimeters) apart, in well-draining soil with good exposure to sunlight. This allows the newly planted bulbs to establish roots before the onset of winter, ensuring a display of bright yellow flowers come spring.
