Daffodil Narcissus 'Wisley' (6)
ABOUT
The Narcissus 'Wisley' is a variety commonly referred to as the daffodil. This plant features a striking appearance with its iconic flowers that are often synonymous with the onset of spring. Each flower is characterized by its bright, cheerful yellow hue. The bloom has a traditional daffodil shape, with a central trumpet-like corona surrounded by a star-shaped arrangement of petals, giving it a distinctly sunny and inviting appearance. The corona may exhibit a slightly differing shade, often appearing in a deeper or richer tone of yellow, or even a contrasting color depending on the specific cultivar. The petals fan out gracefully from the rim of the corona and are typically smooth with a slight overlap at the base, contributing to its aesthetic bloom structure. The foliage of the Narcissus 'Wisley' consists of slender, sword-shaped leaves that are a deep, lush green. These leaves emerge from the base of the plant, creating a tuft of greenery that further accentuates the beauty of the daffodil flowers standing above them. The overall appearance of the Narcissus 'Wisley' is one of vibrant color and a quintessential springtime look that brings a sense of rejuvenation and joy to gardens and landscapes where it is grown.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Daffodil, Jonquil, Narcissus.
Common names
Narcissus 'Wisley'
ToxicityTo humans
The Narcissus 'Wisley', commonly known as daffodil, is toxic to humans if ingested. All parts of the daffodil contain toxic alkaloids, with the bulb being the most poisonous part. If someone eats any part of the daffodil, they may experience symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to cardiac arrhythmias, low blood pressure, tremors, and seizures. Handling the bulbs can also cause skin irritation in some people. It is important to avoid ingesting any part of the daffodil, and if ingestion occurs, medical attention should be sought immediately.
To pets
The Narcissus 'Wisley', also known as the daffodil, is toxic to pets if ingested. The entire plant, especially the bulbs, contains lycorine and other alkaloids that can cause poisoning. Symptoms of daffodil poisoning in pets include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, drooling, and in severe cases, cardiac arrhythmias, respiratory depression, and even seizures. Ingesting large quantities may lead to serious health complications or even death. Immediate veterinary care is advised if a pet has ingested any part of a daffodil plant.
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- Ornamental value: Narcissus 'Wisley', also known as Daffodil, has attractive flowers that enhance the beauty of gardens and landscapes.
- Easy to grow: Daffodils are known for being low maintenance and easy to cultivate in many climates.
- Perennial growth: As a perennial plant, Daffodils return year after year, providing long-term garden interest.
- Spring blooming: They are among the first plants to bloom in spring, bringing early color to the garden after winter.
- Pest resistance: Daffodils are typically resistant to many pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- Symbolism: Daffodils symbolize rebirth and new beginnings, often associated with the spring season.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The bulbs of the daffodil 'Wisley' can be used as a glue substitute. The sticky sap inside the stems and bulbs can serve as a natural adhesive.
- Crushed daffodil petals have been used in traditional dyeing processes to create a yellow dye.
- The daffodil plant can be interplanted with vegetables to deter rodents, as some rodents are repelled by the scent of daffodils.
- Daffodil bulbs are sometimes planted in and around ponds as a protective measure to deter water voles and other burrowing animals that might damage pond linings.
- The flowers can be used for artistic purposes, such as making daffodil paper flowers for crafts and decorations.
- Dried daffodil flowers can be incorporated into potpourri mixtures to add a touch of spring scent to a room.
- In some cultures, daffodils are seen as a symbol of good luck and are used in certain ceremonies to bring about prosperity and good fortune.
- Daffodil motifs are popular in textile design and the flowers may inspire patterns for fabrics and wallpapers.
- During the Victorian era, daffodils were used as part of language of flowers, where they were gifted to convey unrequited love.
- The plants can also be used in educational settings as a hands-on tool for teaching botany and the life cycle of plants.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Narcissus is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Narcissus is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Rebirth and New Beginnings: The Narcissus 'Wisley', commonly known as the Daffodil, is often one of the first plants to bloom in spring, symbolizing the end of winter and the arrival of new life.
- Hope: Daffodils represent hope, reflecting their ability to reemerge year after year, even after harsh winters.
- Renewal: In similar spirit to rebirth, daffodils symbolize the idea of renewal and the promise of future prosperity.
- Unrequited Love: In some traditions, daffodils can signify unrequited love, possibly stemming from the story of Narcissus in Greek mythology, who fell in love with his own reflection.
- Vanity: The Greek myth of Narcissus, who was obsessed with his own image, also lends the daffodil as a symbol for vanity and self-absorption.
- Prosperity: During the Chinese New Year, daffodils are believed to bring good fortune and are seen as auspicious flowers that signify wealth and prosperity.
WaterDaffodils prefer even moisture, especially during the growing season. Water your 'Wisley' daffodils when the top inch of soil feels dry, generally once a week, providing enough water to soak the earth around the bulbs. In a week, this could be about 1 gallon of water per square foot, depending on soil and climate conditions. Daffodils require less water once they have finished flowering and the foliage begins to yellow. At this point, gradually reduce watering to allow the plants to die back naturally.
LightDaffodils thrive in full sunlight to partial shade. They are best positioned in a spot where they receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. However, light dappled shade during the hottest part of the day is also beneficial for 'Wisley' daffodils, especially in warmer climates.
TemperatureDaffodils, including the 'Wisley' variety, are hardy and can withstand cold winter temperatures as low as 0 degrees Fahrenheit. They prefer to grow in temperatures that range from 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Daffodils bloom in early spring, so they are accustomed to the cooler end of this range during their flowering period.
PruningPruning daffodils generally involves deadheading the spent flowers shortly after blooming; this encourages the plants to store energy in their bulbs rather than producing seed pods. Leave the foliage intact until it turns yellow and withers, which is usually six weeks after flowering. Don't cut back green leaves, as they are replenishing the bulb for the next year.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for a Daffodil 'Wisley' includes a well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter. It is crucial to have a soil pH range of 6.0 to 7.0 for optimal growth and flowering. A combination of loamy soil, peat moss, and perlite or sand can provide the right structure and nutrients. It is also beneficial to add a slow-release bulb fertilizer at planting time.
RepottingDaffodils, including the 'Wisley' variety, are typically grown from bulbs and do not require frequent repotting. Once planted in the garden, they can remain in the same spot for several years. Daffodil 'Wisley' should only be repotted or divided when the clumps become overcrowded, usually every 3 to 5 years, to maintain vigor and bloom quality.
Humidity & MistingDaffodil 'Wisley' is not particularly sensitive to humidity levels and can thrive in the ambient outdoor humidity found in its growing regions. These plants are well-adapted to the varying outdoor conditions and do not require specific humidity adjustments for optimal growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in well-lit area, with cool temps, and provide good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant in sun to partial shade; protect from high wind areas.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Narcissus 'Wisley', commonly known as daffodil, begins with a dormant bulb, which is typically planted in the fall before the ground freezes. In early spring, environmental signals such as temperature changes trigger the bulb to break dormancy, initiating the growth of roots, a stem, and leaves. As the weather warms, the daffodil's stem elongates, and a bud forms that will become the characteristic yellow flower, blooming usually in late winter to early spring. After flowering, the plant undergoes a period of photosynthesis, storing energy in the bulb for the next season. Once the leaves yellow and wither, the daffodil enters a period of dormancy again during the summer months. The cycle is repeated each year, with the bulb potentially producing offsets that can be separated to grow new plants.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating Narcissus, commonly known as daffodils, is through division of bulbs. This process is best carried out in the late summer months, after the foliage has died back and the bulbs have become dormant. Gardeners should carefully lift the bulbs out of the soil with a spade being cautious to avoid cutting into the bulbs. They will typically find that the bulbs have produced offsets—smaller bulbs attached to the main bulb. These offsets can be gently separated by hand or with a small knife if necessary. Once separated, the offsets should be planted immediately in well-draining soil, at a depth of about 6 inches (approximately 15 centimeters), and at least 3 inches (about 7.6 centimeters) apart, to give them enough space to grow. Watering the newly planted bulbs will help them establish more quickly in their new location.
