Daffodil Narcissus 'Vulcan' (2)
ABOUT
The Narcissus 'Vulcan' (2), more commonly known as a type of daffodil, is a striking flowering plant. Its blossoms feature a prominent trumpet-shaped corona surrounded by six petal-like tepals, which give it the classic daffodil shape. This corona is often a vivid yellow or sometimes a deeper orange, contrasting beautifully with the lighter yellow of the tepals. The flowers are known for their bright, cheery appearance and are a herald of spring as they are among the early bloomers in the season. The foliage of the Narcissus 'Vulcan' is slender and long, typically a rich green color, providing a complementary backdrop to its vibrant flowers. The overall look of the plant is one of brightness and warmth, making it a popular choice for gardens and floral displays.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae
Synonyms
Daffodil, Jonquil, Narcissus
Common names
Narcissus 'Vulcan'
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1 foot 4 inches (0.4 meters)
Spread
0 feet 6 inches (0.15 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Adds aesthetic appeal to gardens with its bright, cheerful blooms.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Perennial Growth: Returns each spring, creating a long-lasting display in the landscape.
- Cold Hardy: Can survive and thrive in cooler climates, enduring winter temperatures.
- Attracts Pollinators: Draws in bees and other beneficial insects, supporting local ecosystems.
- Resistant to Deer: Typically not favored by deer, reducing the likelihood of damage to the plant.
- Spring Bloomer: One of the first flowers to emerge in spring, signaling the end of winter.
- Good Cut Flower: Suitable for bouquets with a moderate vase life, adding brightness to indoor settings.
- Versatility: Can be planted in borders, beds, and as a part of mass plantings for a dramatic effect.
- Symbolism: Often associated with rebirth and new beginnings, it holds cultural significance in various traditions.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Daffodil 'Vulcan' bulbs can be used in forcing pots for early indoor blooms, bringing a touch of spring into the home during winter.
- The blooms can be used in aromatherapy, as their scent can be quite relaxing and uplifting for many people.
- Daffodil 'Vulcan' can be planted amongst fruit trees to deter rodents because some rodents dislike the scent and will avoid the area.
- The crushed bulbs, despite being toxic, have been used historically as a glue for repairing pottery and china.
- In photography, daffodils can add an aesthetic and seasonal element to outdoor portrait sessions during springtime.
- The flowers are sometimes used in dyeing fabric, giving a yellowish hue, although this is not a very common practice.
- The plant can be used for educational purposes, such as teaching botany or horticulture, due to their distinct morphology and growth habits.
- As a companion plant, daffodils can be planted with other bulbs that will bloom at different times, extending the blooming season of a garden.
- Used in floral arrangements, floating daffodil heads in shallow bowls of water can create stunning centerpieces for events and gatherings.
- Daffodil 'Vulcan' are sometimes planted on graves as a symbol of remembrance or as part of natural burial practices.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Narcissus is associated with good fortune and wealth in Feng Shui. It is often placed in the home during the Chinese New Year to invite prosperity for the coming year. Positioning a Narcissus in the wealth area or southeast sector of your living space is believed to enhance financial luck and encourage the growth of one's resources.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Narcissus is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Rebirth and New Beginnings: Narcissus, commonly known as daffodil, often blooms around the time of spring, symbolizing the end of winter and the advent of growth and renewal.
- Vanity: Taking its name from the Greek myth of Narcissus, this flower is associated with self-absorption and vanity, as the myth’s protagonist fell in love with his own reflection.
- Prosperity: In some cultures, daffodils are believed to bring good fortune and prosperity, especially if the first bloom is brought into the home.
- Inspiration: The bright appearance of daffodils has been seen as a muse for artists and writers, symbolizing creativity and the power of inspiration.
- Unequaled Love: The daffodil is often given as a token of admiration that cannot be matched, embodying deep, unconditional love.
- Respect: Presenting someone with daffodils can signify great respect and regard for the person.
WaterDaffodils, including the Narcissus 'Vulcan', require consistent moisture during the growing season but should not be overwatered. Water them thoroughly once a week, ensuring that the soil is moist to a depth of about 6 inches. During periods of rainfall, reduce the amount of supplemental watering. After blooming, gradually decrease watering as the foliage begins to die back. They may need approximately one gallon of water per square foot every two weeks, depending on the weather conditions.
LightDaffodils like Narcissus 'Vulcan' thrive in full sun to partial shade. They perform best with at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. When choosing a spot for planting, consider an area that receives morning sunlight and is protected from the intense heat of the late afternoon sun.
TemperatureDaffodils such as Narcissus 'Vulcan' are hardy and can survive winter temperatures as low as 15°F. They prefer a climate with cold winters and warm springs, with an ideal growth temperature range of 50°F to 70°F. Excessive heat during flowering can shorten bloom times and is therefore best avoided.
PruningPruning is generally not necessary for daffodils such as Narcissus 'Vulcan' because they do not produce woody stems. However, dead or yellowing leaves can be removed after they have naturally died back, typically several weeks after blooming. Do not cut back foliage until it has turned yellow to ensure the bulbs have time to store energy for the next season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Daffodil 'Vulcan' should be well-draining and fertile, with a mixture of loamy soil, peat, and sand. The ideal pH for daffodils is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingDaffodils, such as the 'Vulcan' variety, do not typically need frequent repotting and can be repotted every 3 to 5 years or when the bulbs become overcrowded in their current container.
Humidity & MistingDaffodil 'Vulcan' prefers average humidity levels and does not require any special humidity conditions; they adapt well to the natural humidity levels found in most outdoor settings.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, cool temps, and plant in well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade, in well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of a Narcissus 'Vulcan', commonly known as daffodil, begins with a dormant bulb planted in the fall, before the frost, allowing it to establish roots. In spring, the bulb breaks dormancy, shoots emerge from the ground, and leaves unfold to photosynthesize and gather energy. The daffodil then produces distinctive yellow or white flowers with a central trumpet-shaped corona, blooming from late winter to early spring. After flowering, the plant goes through a period of photosynthesis and energy storage while the foliage remains green. Once the leaves yellow and wither, the plant enters summer dormancy, conserving energy within the bulb. The cycle restarts in the next growing season when temperatures drop, signaling the bulb to initiate new growth.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagation for Narcissus 'Vulcan', commonly known as the Daffodil, is through division of the bulbs. These plants tend to form clumps which can be lifted and divided to create new plants. The best time to carry out this process is in the late summer to early fall, after the foliage has died back but before the ground has frozen. It is essential to be gentle during the division to avoid damage to the bulbs. Each division should have at least one growth point, or 'eye,' and a portion of the basal plate. After division, the bulbs should be replanted at a depth of about 6 inches (15 centimeters), spaced 3 to 6 inches (7.5 to 15 centimeters) apart to ensure adequate room for growth. Properly dividing and replanting Daffodil bulbs will help to ensure a healthy display of flowers in the following spring.
