Daffodil Narcissus 'W.p. Milner' (1)
ABOUT
Narcissus 'W.P. Milner', commonly known as the daffodil, has a distinct appearance that showcases soft, light-colored blooms. The flowers of this daffodil variety are usually a pale yellow to creamy white, which can vary slightly from one plant to another. Each flower consists of a central trumpet-shaped corona surrounded by a ring of six floral segments, which are often referred to as petals. The trumpet may exhibit a slightly different hue compared to the petals, sometimes presenting a more buttery yellow shade. The petals are typically arranged in a symmetrical fashion and are known for their delicate, somewhat translucent quality that catches the light beautifully. They have a smooth and soft texture to the touch. The central trumpet is characterized by its flared opening and slightly frilled edges, adding an element of texture and depth to the flower's overall appearance. The foliage of the daffodil 'W.P. Milner' is deep green, providing a striking contrast to the lighter-colored flowers. The leaves are slender and long, with a tendency to arch elegantly, emerging from the base of the plant. They frame the blooms and add to the plant's visual appeal by creating a backdrop that highlights the daffodil's cheerful flowers. Overall, the daffodil 'W.P. Milner' is admired for its understated elegance and the unassuming charm of its pastel blooms. Its soft color palette and graceful form make it a favorite in gardens where it's celebrated as a harbinger of spring.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Daffodil, Narcissus, Jonquil
Common names
Narcissus 'W.p. Milner'
ToxicityTo humans
Daffodil (Narcissus 'W.p. Milner') is known to be toxic to humans if ingested. The plant contains a substance called lycorine, which is capable of causing poisoning. Symptoms of daffodil poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and in severe cases, irregular heart rhythm, and convulsions. Eating any part of the plant, particularly the bulb, can result in these toxic symptoms.
To pets
Daffodil (Narcissus 'W.p. Milner') is also toxic to pets, including dogs, cats, and horses. Similar to its effects in humans, the toxicity is due to the presence of lycorine, among other compounds. Symptoms of poisoning in pets may include vomiting, salivation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, heart problems, and more severe cases can lead to tremors, low blood pressure, and seizures. Ingesting any part of the plant, especially the bulb, can be harmful to pets.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Cream
Height
1 foot [0.3 meter]
Spread
1 foot [0.3 meter]
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: The Narcissus 'W.p. Milner', commonly known as daffodil, provides aesthetic appeal with its attractive trumpet-shaped flowers and can add beauty to gardens and landscapes.
- Easy to Grow: Daffodils are generally low maintenance, making them a good choice for beginner gardeners or those with limited time.
- Pest Resistance: Daffodils have a natural resistance to many pests and can help reduce the need for chemical pesticides in the garden.
- Drought Tolerance: They are relatively drought-tolerant once established, which can save on water usage and make them suitable for drier climates or water-wise gardens.
- Spring Bloom: Daffodils are among the first flowers to bloom in spring, which can provide an early source of color and signal the end of winter.
- Longevity: Many daffodil varieties naturalize, meaning they can persist and multiply for many years with little intervention, offering long-term garden interest.
- Wildlife Support: The flowers can provide nectar and pollen for early-season pollinators such as bees, supporting biodiversity.
- Symbolic Significance: Daffodils are often associated with rebirth and new beginnings, and they are used in celebrations such as the spring festival and as a symbol for cancer charities.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Narcissus 'W.p. Milner', often referred to simply as daffodil, can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics, with different parts of the flower producing varying shades.
- The sap of daffodils contains crystals of calcium oxalate which can be used to make a primitive form of glue or adhesive when mixed with other natural compounds.
- Daffodil bulbs are sometimes used for their starch content in traditional textile stiffening practices.
- In gardening, crushed daffodil bulbs can be utilized as a natural pest repellent to protect other plants due to their toxic properties.
- The daffodil has been a source of inspiration for artists and poets, often symbolizing renewal and creativity in art and literature.
- Daffodils can be planted in patterns to serve as a living sundial, where their shadows can indicate the time of day during their blooming season.
- During certain festivals or special occasions, daffodil flowers are woven into garlands or wreaths for decorative purposes.
- In some regions, daffodil petals are used in crafting biodegradable confetti for environmentally conscious celebrations.
- Daffodils can be used in companion planting to deter rodents that might damage edible crops without resorting to chemical repellents.
- The strong scent of some daffodil varieties can be distilled into essential oils for use in natural perfumery, although this is not a common practice due to the potential toxicity of the plant.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Daffodil is believed to bring good fortune and is recommended to be placed in the wealth or health area of your home to energize these aspects of life.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Daffodil is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Rebirth and New Beginnings: The Narcissus flower typically blooms in the early spring, which makes it a symbol of starting anew, just as the spring represents new life in the world around us.
- Self-esteem: Named after the Greek myth of Narcissus, who fell in love with his own reflection, this flower can represent a level of self-obsession or self-love.
- Prosperity: In some cultures, the Narcissus is seen as a sign of wealth and success, often associated with the Chinese New Year.
- Inspiration: The Narcissus is also seen as embodying inspiration, possibly due to its refreshing and vibrant appearance that marks the end of winter.
- Hope: Often regarded as a sign of hope, the Narcissus implies the overcoming of challenges, as it is one of the first flowers to bloom, signaling the end of winter hardships.
WaterDaffodils, such as the Narcissus 'W.p. Milner', should be watered deeply when the soil feels dry to the touch, which typically means once a week during their growing season. In terms of quantity, this often translates to approximately one inch of water weekly, or roughly half a gallon per square foot, to ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering or allowing the plants to sit in soggy soil can lead to bulb rot. During dormancy, after the foliage has died back, watering can be reduced significantly as the plant is not actively growing.
LightDaffodils like Narcissus 'W.p. Milner' thrive best in full sun to partial shade. They should be planted in a location where they can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. However, if you live in a region with extremely hot summers, a spot that offers afternoon shade will help protect the flowers from intense heat.
TemperatureDaffodils including Narcissus 'W.p. Milner' prefer a temperate climate with a growing season that provides cool to moderate temperatures, ideally between 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Their bulbs can generally survive winter temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit, but should not be exposed to prolonged periods below this range. The plants can tolerate a short period of temperatures up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, but sustained heat can stress the plants.
PruningPruning daffodils, like Narcissus 'W.p. Milner', mainly involves deadheading spent flowers to maintain a neat appearance and prevent seed formation which can drain resources from the bulb. However, the foliage should be left in place until it naturally yellows and withers, usually 6 to 8 weeks after blooming, to allow the plant to photosynthesize and store energy for the next year. The best time to prune daffodils is after blooming, when flowers begin to fade.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for the Daffodil 'W.p. Milner' is well-drained, fertile loam with the addition of organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure. A slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal for this plant.
RepottingDaffodils, including the 'W.p. Milner' variety, are generally repotted every 3 to 5 years, or when the bulbs become crowded and flowering declines.
Humidity & MistingDaffodils, such as 'W.p. Milner', are adaptable and do not require specific humidity levels, thriving in typical outdoor conditions without the need for additional humidity.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Daffodil 'W.p. Milner' in bright indirect light indoors with cool temperatures.
Outdoor
Plant Daffodil 'W.p. Milner' in sun to partial shade and well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Narcissus 'W.P. Milner', commonly known as the daffodil, begins with a dormant bulb lying underground during the cold months. As temperatures warm in the spring, the bulb breaks dormancy, sending up green shoots and leaves, followed by a singular flower stalk with a characteristic trumpet-shaped bloom. After flowering, the plant enters a period of photosynthesis where the leaves gather energy from the sun to replenish the bulb for the next season. Once the leaves yellow and die back, the daffodil goes into dormancy, conserving energy in the bulb throughout the summer and fall. If the conditions are right, the bulb may produce offsets, or daughter bulbs, which can be separated from the parent to propagate new plants. The daffodil's life cycle is annually repeated, with each year potentially adding more flowers to the display as the bulb matures and divides.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
Narcissus 'W.p. Milner', commonly known as daffodil, is most effectively propagated through division of bulbs. The preferred time for this process is after the foliage has died back in late summer or early fall. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the clump of bulbs, ensuring minimal damage to the bulb and roots. The clump should then be gently separated into individual bulbs, each of which should have a portion of the base and some roots attached. These bulbs can then be replanted immediately at a depth of about 6 inches (15 centimeters), spaced 3 to 6 inches (7.5 to 15 centimeters) apart, in well-drained soil with ample sunlight. This method leverages the natural growth cycle of the daffodil, allowing the new bulbs to establish themselves before the onset of winter and to bloom the following spring.
