White Lady Daffodil Narcissus 'White Lady' (3)
ABOUT
The Narcissus 'White Lady' is an elegant flower, showcasing pristine white petals that radiate around a central cup. This central cup, often referred to as the trumpet or corona, is usually a softer shade of cream or lemon, providing a subtle contrast to the snowy petals. Each flower consists of a circle of petals that are slightly curved backwards, giving the blooms a distinctive, poised appearance. They generally form a single-layered ring and are known for their neat, symmetrical arrangement. The foliage of the Narcissus 'White Lady' is dark green, with long, slender leaves that emerge from the base of the stem. These leaves are typically glossy and may have a slightly arching or strap-like form, gracefully complementing the upright stance of the flowers. The plant produces one or a few flowers per stem, and the blooms are oriented upwards or slightly angled, making them highly noticeable and aesthetically pleasing in a garden setting. The Narcissus 'White Lady' emits a delightful fragrance, which is refreshing and reminiscent of spring. The overall appearance of this plant is one of purity and freshness, much sought after by gardeners for its clean, refreshing look and its ability to add a touch of elegance to any planting scheme.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
White Lady Narcissus, White Lady Daffodil, White Lady Jonquil
Common names
Narcissus 'White Lady'
ToxicityTo humans
The daffodil is considered poisonous to humans. Ingesting any part of the plant, particularly the bulb, can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In severe cases, ingesting daffodil parts can lead to cardiac arrhythmias, low blood pressure, tremors, and seizures. Handling the bulbs may also cause skin irritation in some individuals.
To pets
The daffodil is toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. Ingesting any portion of the plant, especially the bulb, can result in symptoms such as vomiting, salivation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, heart arrhythmias, convulsions, and potentially serious drops in blood pressure. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to acute kidney failure, which can be life-threatening if left untreated.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1-1.5 feet (30-45 cm)
Spread
0.5 feet (15 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Narcissus 'White Lady', commonly known as Daffodil, has elegant white flowers that can enhance the beauty of gardens and landscapes.
- Easy to Grow: Daffodils are known for being low maintenance, making them ideal for beginner gardeners and those that prefer easy-to-care-for plants.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers can attract bees and other pollinators, which are beneficial for the ecosystem and the pollination of nearby plants.
- Spring Bloomer: Daffodils bloom in early spring, providing one of the first bursts of color after the winter months and signaling the coming of warmer weather.
- Naturalizing: Daffodils can spread and naturalize over time, creating a larger display of flowers year after year without needing to replant.
- Cut Flowers: They make excellent cut flowers due to their long vase life and attractive blooms, perfect for indoor displays and floral arrangements.
- Resistant to Pests: Daffodils are typically resistant to deer, rabbits, and squirrels, preventing the likelihood of damage caused by these animals.
- Symbolism: Daffodils are associated with new beginnings and are often seen as a symbol of hope, making them a thoughtful gift or a meaningful addition to a garden.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography subject: The daffodil 'White Lady' is a favorite among photographers due to its pristine white petals, contrasting with the bold central corona, creating visually arresting images.
- Perfumery: The essential oils obtained from daffodil flowers can be used in perfumery for creating flowery and fresh scents.
- Wedding decorations: Daffodil 'White Lady' is often used in wedding bouquets and centerpieces for their delicate appearance and symbol of purity.
- Garden competitions: This specific cultivar is prized in garden and floral shows due to its unique beauty and might be cultivated for competitive display.
- Dye production: The pigments extracted from daffodils can be used to produce dyes for fabrics or other materials.
- Literary inspiration: Daffodils, including 'White Lady', often serve as inspiration for poetry and literature due to their association with spring and rebirth.
- Teaching tool: Horticulture educators may use 'White Lady' to demonstrate bulb planting and growth cycles in educational programs.
- Ecological studies: Scientists can study this specific variety of daffodil to understand pollination patterns and plant-insect interactions in gardens and wild settings.
- Themed gardens: White Lady can be used to create a serene white-themed garden space or as part of a monochromatic color scheme.
- Culinary decoration: While not edible, daffodils like 'White Lady' are sometimes used as non-toxic decorations on food platters or around the rim of serving dishes to enhance presentation.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Daffodil is used in Feng Shui to attract good Chi and encourage the influx of wealth, good fortune, and renewal. It is often placed in the wealth sector (southeast) or in areas that require revitalization.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Daffodil is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Rebirth and New Beginnings: Narcissus, commonly known as daffodil, often blooms around spring, symbolizing the end of winter and the start of a new growing season.
- Self-Reflection: The name "Narcissus" is derived from the Greek myth of a youth who fell in love with his own reflection. It can represent self-observation and introspection.
- Vanity: In line with the Greek myth, the narcissus can signify excessive pride and absorption with oneself.
- Unrequited Love: The flower is historically linked to the concept of unreturned affection, likely due to the story of Narcissus who was unable to leave the allure of his reflection.
WaterDaffodils, including 'White Lady', should be watered thoroughly at planting and then given about 1 inch of water per week during the growing season, either from rainfall or supplemental watering. It is important to avoid over-watering as daffodils do not like to sit in soggy soil. Once established, these bulbs are quite drought-tolerant and may require less frequent watering. If the weather is particularly dry, you may need to provide additional water. After flowering, you can reduce watering as the foliage begins to die back naturally.
LightDaffodils thrive in full sun to partial shade. They do best with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. The 'White Lady' variety will flower most prolifically when planted in an area that receives morning sunlight and some afternoon shade, especially in areas with hot afternoon sun.
TemperatureDaffodils, including the 'White Lady' variety, prefer moderate temperatures and are hardy in a range between 20°F and 70°F. Frost tolerant, they can survive short periods of temperatures slightly below 20°F. The ideal temperature range for growing daffodils is between 50°F and 60°F, which promotes strong growth and flowering.
PruningPruning daffodils such as 'White Lady' entails deadheading the flowers after they have faded, but it's important to leave the foliage until it turns yellow and begins to die back naturally, which can take about six weeks. This allows the plant to gather energy for next season's blooms. Cut the spent flowers off at the base but do not cut the foliage until it is yellow.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Daffodil 'White Lady' is well-draining and fertile with a slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.0 and 7.0. A mix of loamy soil with added sand and organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure will promote healthy growth.
RepottingDaffodils, including 'White Lady', typically do not need to be repotted very often. They can be left in the same spot for several years unless they become overcrowded, at which point they should be lifted and divided after flowering in the spring.
Humidity & MistingDaffodil 'White Lady' is not particularly humidity-sensitive and can thrive in a wide range of ambient humidity levels typically found outdoors. They do not require specific humidity control when grown in garden settings.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Daffodil 'White Lady' in bright, indirect light with cool temperature.
Outdoor
Plant Daffodil 'White Lady' in well-draining soil in full sun.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleNarcissus 'White Lady', commonly known as daffodil, begins its life cycle as a bulb, which is a dormant stage that allows it to survive unfavorable conditions. Upon the arrival of spring, the bulb breaks dormancy and sprouts, leading to the vegetative state where leaves and a flower stalk grow rapidly. The plant then enters the flowering stage, where the characteristic white flowers bloom and are pollinated. After pollination, the daffodil sets seed while the above-ground foliage begins to die back as energy is redirected to the bulb. The seeds may disperse and potentially give rise to new bulbs elsewhere. Finally, the plant re-enters dormancy, with the bulb resting underground until the next favorable growth season begins.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The Narcissus 'White Lady', commonly known as Daffodil, is typically propagated through division, which is best done in the fall after the leaves have died back. This method involves digging up the mature bulbs and gently separating the smaller offset bulbs, known as bulbils, that form around the base of the mother bulb. These bulbils can be replanted immediately at a depth approximately three times their height. This replicates the natural increase of the daffodils and ensures that genetic consistency is maintained. Care should be taken not to damage the main bulb and the offsets should have some of the base plate to ensure successful planting. Once planted, they should be watered in and can be expected to flower after one or two seasons, depending on their size and health at the time of separation.
