Daffodil Narcissus 'Verona' (3)
ABOUT
The Narcissus 'Verona' is a captivating plant known for its striking flowers. It is a type of daffodil with a distinctive appearance. Each flower typically features a central trumpet-shaped crown that is surrounded by a ring of larger, petal-like structures. The petals are usually a creamy white or a pale yellow, presenting a delicate and sophisticated look. The trumpet may have a contrasting color, including a soft shade of orange, yellow, or cream, often with frilled or ruffled edges that add texture to the bloom. The foliage is slender and long, with a deep green color that provides an elegant backdrop for the vibrant blossoms. The leaves may arch gracefully and create an overall lush appearance. This daffodil variety is often grown for its aesthetic appeal and is well-loved for being a harbinger of spring with its early blooms.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Daffodil, Jonquil, Narcissus
Common names
Narcissus 'Verona'
ToxicityTo humans
Daffodil, which includes Narcissus 'Verona', is considered toxic if ingested. The entire plant contains alkaloids such as lycorine, with the highest concentration typically found in the bulb. If a human ingests any part of the plant, they may experience symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and in severe cases, cardiac arrhythmias or central nervous system issues. Handling the bulbs can also cause skin irritation for sensitive individuals. Therefore, caution is advised to prevent accidental ingestion, especially in children and pets, and to wear gloves if handling the bulbs for an extended period.
To pets
Daffodil, including Narcissus 'Verona', is toxic to pets. All parts of the daffodil contain alkaloids, particularly lycorine, but the bulbs are the most toxic part. If pets consume any part of the daffodil, they may experience vomiting, salivation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, heart rhythm abnormalities, and even respiratory depression in severe cases. Higher doses could lead to more significant toxicity including cardiac arrhythmias or convulsions. It is essential to keep daffodils out of reach of pets to prevent accidental ingestion and seek veterinary care immediately if any part of the plant is ingested.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1-1.5 feet (30-45 cm)
Spread
0.5-1 feet (15-30 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Narcissus 'Verona', commonly known as Daffodil, has showy, fragrant flowers that enhance the aesthetic appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Early Blooming: Daffodils are amongst the first flowers to bloom in spring, providing early color when many other plants are still dormant.
- Ease of Care: Daffodils are relatively low-maintenance, hardy plants that don't require extensive care once established.
- Deer and Rodent Resistance: The bulbs and flowers are typically avoided by deer and rodents, making them an excellent choice for gardens that struggle with these pests.
- Perennial Growth: As a perennial, Daffodils will return year after year, often multiplying and spreading in an area.
- Naturalizing: Daffodils are excellent for naturalizing—spreading out over time to cover a larger area, creating a sweeping effect in the landscape.
- Cut Flower Use: The blooms are long-lasting when cut, making them ideal for bouquets and floral arrangements.
- Erosion Control: Their root systems can help stabilize soil and reduce erosion on slopes or in areas prone to soil disturbance.
- Symbolism and Tradition: Daffodils have a rich history and symbolism, often associated with rebirth and new beginnings, which can provide added sentimental value to a garden.
- Variety of Uses: Daffodils can be grown in flower beds, borders, containers, and under trees or shrubs, providing versatility in landscaping design.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Narcissus 'Verona' can be used in cut flower arrangements, offering a bright and cheerful aesthetic to any bouquet with their typical white and yellow blooms.
- These flowers can be planted as part of a pest control strategy in gardens because some pests tend to avoid them due to their strong scent.
- Daffodil bulbs can be forced indoors in pots or containers for early spring blooms even before the ground thaws outside, creating a burst of color in indoor settings.
- Narcissus plants can be used in educational projects to teach children about plant growth cycles and bulb propagation.
- Due to their distinct appearance, Narcissus 'Verona' can be used as a natural dye source for fabrics, giving a yellowish hue.
- Their sturdy stems allow them to be used in crafting, such as making homemade wreaths or other decorative items for spring celebrations.
- Daffodils can be used in photography, serving as an attractive and vivid subject matter for still-life images or as part of a landscape composition.
- The blooms can serve as a natural indicator of seasonal change, signaling the start of spring in temperate climates when they first emerge.
- Narcissus 'Verona' can participate in community beautification projects, brightening public spaces like parks, schools, and road medians.
- Old Narcissus bulbs can be repurposed as a natural glue when crushed and mixed with water, though this is a less common application.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Daffodil is used in Feng Shui to invite wealth, ensure good luck, and accumulate positive Chi. Placed in the wealth corner or southeast area of a home or office, the Daffodil can attract prosperity.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Daffodil is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Rebirth and New Beginnings: The Narcissus, commonly known as daffodil, is one of the first perennials to bloom after the winter frost, symbolizing the coming of spring and the renewal of nature.
- Unrequited Love: In Greek mythology, Narcissus fell in love with his own reflection, unattainable and beyond reach, which lends the daffodil a connection to unreciprocated love.
- Vanity and Self-Absorption: Also arising from the Greek myth, the daffodil represents narcissism—excessive self-love and vanity.
- Prosperity: In some cultures, the daffodil is synonymous with wealth and good fortune. Having a single daffodil is said to foretell misfortune, while a bunch indicates joy and happiness.
- Hope: The daffodil stands for hope, encouraging people to have a positive outlook towards life, especially because it blooms around the time of the Chinese New Year and is often associated with festive cheer.
WaterDaffodils, including Narcissus 'Verona', prefer consistent moisture during their growing season. Water the bulbs generously immediately after planting, providing about 1 inch of water per week. Once the daffodils are established, they are quite drought tolerant and require less frequent watering, unless there is a prolonged dry spell. During their active growth and blooming phase, maintain a weekly watering schedule, ensuring that the soil remains damp but not waterlogged. After blooming, gradually reduce watering as the foliage begins to die back, allowing the soil to dry out somewhat before dormancy.
LightDaffodils thrive best in full sun to partial shade. For Narcissus 'Verona', a spot that enjoys several hours of direct sunlight in the morning, followed by light shade during the hottest part of the afternoon, is ideal. Too much shade can result in fewer flowers, so aim for a balance of light that supports robust growth and vibrant blooms.
TemperatureDaffodils, including Narcissus 'Verona', are hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. They are cold tolerant and can survive winter temperatures as low as 15°F. The ideal temperature range for active growth is between 50°F and 70°F. During their dormant phase in the summer, they can handle higher temperatures, assuming they are not exposed to excessive moisture.
PruningDeadheading daffodils like Narcissus 'Verona' after blooming helps redirect energy to the bulb rather than seed production. However, leave the foliage intact until it has yellowed and died back naturally, which typically occurs a few weeks after flowering. Prune the dead foliage once it becomes yellow and loose, usually by the early summer, to maintain a tidy appearance and prepare the bulb for the next growing season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDaffodil 'Verona' prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH, typically around 6.0 to 7.0. A mixture of loam, sand, and compost is ideal to ensure good drainage and fertility. Adding perlite can improve aeration and further aid in drainage, which is crucial to prevent bulb rot.
RepottingDaffodils like 'Verona' generally do not need frequent repotting. Once planted, they can remain in the same spot for several years. However, it's advisable to lift and divide the bulbs every 3 to 5 years to prevent overcrowding and to maintain vigor.
Humidity & MistingDaffodil 'Verona' does well in average outdoor humidity levels and does not require any special humidity considerations. These plants are quite adaptable and can thrive in the variable humidity conditions typically found in temperate climates.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in well-lit area avoiding direct harsh sunlight.
Outdoor
Plant in autumn, full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of Narcissus 'Verona', commonly known as daffodil, begins with a period of dormancy where the bulb remains underground throughout the summer months. As temperatures cool in autumn, roots start to develop, preparing the plant for spring growth. In late winter to early spring, depending on climate, green shoots emerge from the soil, followed by the development of stems, leaves, and flower buds. The plant blooms in spring, showcasing its distinctive white and yellow flowers, which are important for reproduction as they attract pollinators. After flowering, the plant goes through a period of senescence where leaves die back and the plant redirects energy to the bulb for the next cycle. The cycle concludes and repeats as the daffodil bulb enters another phase of dormancy before the next growth season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
Propogation: The Narcissus 'Verona', commonly known as the Daffodil 'Verona', is best propagated through division, a method typically conducted in the late summer to early fall, after the foliage has died back. Once the daffodil has finished blooming and the leaves have withered, carefully dig up the bulbs, taking care not to damage them. Gently separate the offsets, which are the smaller bulbs that have formed attached to the main bulb, by pulling or cutting them apart. Each offset can be replanted immediately to grow into a new plant. To promote healthy growth, plant these offsets about 6 inches (15 centimeters) deep and 6 inches (15 centimeters) apart in well-drained soil and in a location that receives full to partial sunlight.
