Narcissus 'Willy Dunlop' (2)
ABOUT
The Narcissus 'Willy Dunlop' is a captivating plant known for its unique and charming flowers. These blooms exhibit a classic trumpet shape, which is a hallmark of the daffodil family to which it belongs. The outer petals unfurl to form a supportive backdrop for the central cup or corona. What sets 'Willy Dunlop' apart is the coloration of its flowers; the petals are predominantly a crisp white, which contrasts sharply with the strikingly frilled cup at the center that is tinted with delicate shades of yellow or sometimes a soft orange hue. The flowers grow individually atop sturdy, upright stems that emerge from a base of slender, green, strap-like leaves. The foliage is somewhat glossy, with a strong linear shape that fans outwards, creating a lush, grassy tuft. This foliage complements the solitary blossoms, helping to showcase the brilliant flowers as they stand tall and proud above the greenery. The vibrant colors of 'Willy Dunlop' make it a standout addition to any garden, and its blooms are often associated with the renewal of spring. This variety of daffodil is commonly cultivated for its beauty and for the cheerful presence it brings to outdoor spaces, where its distinct appearance can be admired from late winter to early spring, depending on the climate.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae
Synonyms
Daffodil, Jonquil, Narcissus
Common names
Narcissus 'Willy Dunlop'
ToxicityTo humans
The daffodil, including the 'Willy Dunlop' variety, is toxic to humans if ingested. All parts of the plant contain toxic alkaloids, with the bulb being the most poisonous part. Symptoms of daffodil poisoning may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and in severe cases, can lead to cardiac arrhythmias or respiratory depression. Handling the bulb can also cause dermatitis in some individuals.
To pets
The daffodil, including the 'Willy Dunlop' variety, is toxic to pets as well. All parts of the plant are poisonous, with the bulb being especially dangerous if consumed. Symptoms of toxicity in pets can include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, lethargy, tremors, and in severe cases, cardiac arrhythmias or convulsions. Immediate veterinary care is recommended if a pet consumes any part of a daffodil.
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: Adds visual interest to gardens with its striking white flowers and elegant form.
- Easy to Grow: These bulbs are low-maintenance and can thrive in a variety of soil types, requiring minimal care once established.
- Spring Bloom: One of the first plants to bloom in spring, bringing early color to the garden after the winter months.
- Hardiness: Resistant to most pests and diseases, ensuring a healthy display without the need for chemical treatments.
- Naturalizing: Over time, they will multiply and spread, creating larger displays each year.
- Attracts Pollinators: Helps support local bee and butterfly populations by providing an early source of nectar.
- Versatility: Suitable for planting in borders, containers, and under trees or shrubs, offering various landscaping options.
- Cut Flowers: The blossoms can be cut and used in floral arrangements, bringing the beauty of the garden indoors.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Narcissus 'Willy Dunlop', commonly known as daffodil, can be utilized in perfumery to capture its delicate fragrance in floral perfume blends.
- In the Victorian language of flowers, daffodils symbolize respect and chivalry, and thus can be included in floral messages to convey these sentiments.
- Daffodil bulbs contain a substance called galantamine, which can deter moles and voles in the garden when planted among other plants.
- Due to their early spring bloom, daffodils can serve as an indicator of groundwater levels when they sprout, offering a natural method for farmers to assess field conditions.
- Photographers often use daffodils as a subject to signify the onset of spring in artistic compositions and seasonal portfolios.
- Daffodil flowers can be used in dyes for textile coloring, providing a natural source of yellow or green tints when used with appropriate mordants.
- When dried and pressed, daffodil petals can be incorporated into handmade paper or bookmarks, providing a decorative botanical element.
- Narcissus 'Willy Dunlop' can be part of eco-funeral practices, serving as biodegradable decor for green burials as they are non-toxic and compostable.
- The daffodil blooms can serve as organic confetti at celebrations in spring, adding a seasonal and environmentally friendly touch to events.
- Planting daffodils in large, unused fields can provide a habitat for pollinators early in the season, supporting bees and other beneficial insects.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe daffodil is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe daffodil is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Rebirth and Renewal: The Narcissus typically blooms in the early spring, making it a symbol of the new beginnings and the renewal that comes with the season.
- Vanity: Its association with the Greek myth of Narcissus, who fell in love with his own reflection, has led the Narcissus flower to represent self-absorption and vanity.
- Wealth and Prosperity: In some cultures, the Narcissus is believed to symbolize good fortune and wealth, often linked to its vibrant bloom during the New Year in Chinese culture.
- Hope: The bright and lively appearance of the Narcissus gives it the representation of hope, as it stands out against the bleakness of winter's end.
- Self-Esteem: Beyond the negative connotation of vanity, the Narcissus can also be seen as a symbol for healthy self-love and esteem, reminding the importance of taking care of one's own needs.
WaterDaffodils, including the Narcissus 'Willy Dunlop', require consistent moisture during the growth and blooming period. Water the soil around the daffodils thoroughly when the top inch feels dry to the touch to ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged, as too much water can cause bulb rot. This typically means watering every week, though this can vary depending on climate conditions; it may need to be more frequent during dry spells. Generally, daffodils should receive about one inch of water per week, whether from rainfall or manual watering. Use a watering can or hose to gently water the plant with about half a gallon per square yard weekly during active growth.
LightDaffodils thrive best in full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade. The Narcissus 'Willy Dunlop' should be planted in a location where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Full sun encourages strong growth and optimal flowering. If in a particularly hot climate, some afternoon shade may benefit the plant to protect from intense heat.
TemperatureDaffodils, including the Narcissus 'Willy Dunlop', prefer moderately cool temperatures and are hardy in a range of climates. They can survive winter temperatures as low as 5°F but do best when the temperatures are between 50°F and 70°F during their growth period. They begin to enter dormancy when summer temperatures consistently rise above 70°F.
PruningDaffodils, such as the Narcissus 'Willy Dunlop', should be deadheaded after blooming by removing the flower head to prevent seed formation which can weaken the bulb. However, do not cut the foliage until it has turned yellow and withered, typically 6 weeks after flowering, as the leaves are necessary to gather energy for next year's blooms. Pruning is generally required once per year after the flowers have faded.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDaffodils prefer well-draining, fertile loam with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. Mixing in compost or well-rotted manure can enhance soil fertility for Narcissus 'Willy Dunlop'.
RepottingDaffodils, including Narcissus 'Willy Dunlop', typically do not need frequent repotting and can be left undisturbed for several years unless they become overcrowded.
Humidity & MistingDaffodils like Narcissus 'Willy Dunlop' are tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and do not require specific humidity conditions to thrive.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and cool temperatures.
Outdoor
Plant in well-draining soil, full to partial sun exposure.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleNarcissus 'Willy Dunlop', commonly known as daffodil, begins its life as a bulb which sprouts in the spring, producing a set of flat, green leaves and a single flower stalk that supports a fragrant, white bloom with a yellow or orange corona. After flowering, the plant undergoes photosynthesis to gather energy, which is stored in the bulb for the next growing cycle. As the foliage dies back in late spring or early summer, the plant enters a period of dormancy over the hot summer months. During autumn, root growth commences while the bulb remains dormant underground. In response to cooling temperatures and increasing soil moisture, the bulb reawakens and restarts the cycle with the emergence of new leaves and flowers by the following spring. Lastly, mature daffodils can be propagated by dividing the bulbs every few years to maintain vigor and increase the number of plants.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
Narcissus 'Willy Dunlop', commonly known as Daffodil 'Willy Dunlop', is typically propagated by division, which is best performed in late summer to early autumn, after the leaves have died back. This method involves carefully lifting the clump of bulbs from the ground with a spade or fork, gently separating the offset bulblets from the parent bulb, and replanting them immediately at a depth of about 6 inches (15 centimeters) ensuring that they have enough space to grow. The separated bulblets are then sited in well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight, which encourages them to develop into flowering bulbs over the course of a few growing seasons.
