Daffodil Narcissus 'Xit' (3)
ABOUT
The Narcissus 'Xit' is a charming variety of daffodil, well-known for its beautiful blooms that herald the arrival of spring. It features a unique flower structure with a central trumpet-shaped corona surrounded by a ring of petal-like tepals. The flowers are typically white, displaying a crisp, clean look. This particular daffodil variety is recognizable by this classic coloration. The central trumpet may have a slightly different shade or a delicate lemon hue, which adds an attractive contrast against the pure white of the peripherally arranged tepals. The foliage of Narcissus 'Xit' typically consists of slender, sword-shaped leaves that are a rich green, which forms an appealing backdrop to the brightness of the flowers. While part of the appeal of daffodils is their growth in attractive clumps, this description specifically excludes the dimensions of its growth habit. This perennial plant emerges from bulbous underground storage organs that allow it to return year after year with the right care.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae
Synonyms
Daffodil, Jonquil, Paperwhite
Common names
Narcissus 'Xit'
ToxicityTo humans
Daffodil, including the 'Xit' variety, contains toxic alkaloids such as lycorine and others, which can cause symptoms of poisoning if ingested. Eating any part of the plant, particularly the bulb, can lead to severe nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In some cases, ingesting large quantities can result in more serious effects such as cardiac arrhythmias, convulsions, or even death, although such extreme reactions are rare.
To pets
Daffodil is also toxic to pets. Ingesting any part of the plant, especially the bulb, can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, salivation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, heart rhythm abnormalities, and respiratory depression. In severe cases, tremors, convulsions, and potentially life-threatening complications can occur. It is crucial to prevent pets from accessing daffodils to avoid accidental ingestion.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
0.5 feet (15 cm)
Spread
0.5 feet (15 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Easy to grow - Narcissus 'Xit' requires minimal maintenance and can thrive in a variety of conditions, making it suitable for beginner gardeners.
- Spring bloom - It provides early spring flowers, bringing color and life to gardens after the winter season.
- Attracts pollinators - The flowers draw in bees and other important pollinators, supporting local ecosystems.
- Long-lasting flowers - Narcissus 'Xit' has a reputation for having blooms that last a long time, providing extended visual appeal.
- Drought tolerant - Once established, these plants can tolerate periods of low water, making them suitable for water-efficient landscaping.
- Deer and rodent resistant - The plant is naturally resistant to deer and rodents, reducing the need for protective measures.
- Perennial growth - As a perennial, Narcissus 'Xit' will return year after year, offering long-term presence in the garden.
- Multiplication - The bulbs can naturally multiply over time, offering gardeners the chance to expand their plantings or share with others.
- Versatile placement - It can be planted in flower beds, borders, containers, and underplanting beneath deciduous trees or shrubs.
- Popular cut flower - The flowers of Narcissus 'Xit' are often used in floral arrangements due to their appealing appearance and longevity.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Daffodil 'Xit' ink: The petals of the daffodil can be used in the making of natural inks, imparting a unique color for artistic purposes.
- Flower arrangement classes: Daffodils, including the 'Xit' variety, are popular in teaching the art of flower arrangement due to their distinctive shape and color.
- Biodegradable confetti: Dried and crumbled petals of daffodil 'Xit' can serve as an eco-friendly confetti for events and celebrations.
- Natural dye: The flowers of the daffodil 'Xit' can be used to create a yellow dye for coloring fabrics or Easter eggs.
- Photography subject: Daffodil 'Xit' with its striking appearance, serves as an excellent subject for photographers, especially macro photography enthusiasts.
- Garden markers: Dried stems of the daffodil 'Xit' can be repurposed as biodegradable markers for garden beds, deteriorating naturally back into the soil.
- Botanical illustration: Artists may utilize daffodil 'Xit' as a subject for botanical illustration, capturing the fine details of its form and color.
- Literary inspiration: The distinctiveness of the daffodil 'Xit' has inspired poets and writers, serving as a symbol in poetry and prose.
- Fragrance extraction: While not common, the scent of the daffodil 'Xit' flowers can be used in the crafting of bespoke perfumes or scented candles.
- Holiday decorations: The cheerful blooms of daffodils can be integrated into springtime holiday decor, especially around Easter.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Narcissus is traditionally associated with good fortune in Feng Shui, especially during the Chinese New Year, as it is believed to bring wealth and good luck when placed in the southeast sector of a home or business.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Narcissus is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Self-Love: Named after the figure Narcissus in Greek mythology, who fell in love with his own reflection, this plant symbolizes self-admiration and vanity.
- Renewal: As a perennial that reemerges each spring, the Narcissus, commonly known as the daffodil, represents rebirth and new beginnings.
- Unrequited Love: Another layer to its relationship with the Narcissus myth is the plant's association with unrequited love, connecting to the story where Narcissus falls in love with something that cannot love him back.
- Hope: Daffodils are one of the first flowers to bloom in spring, often considered a symbol of hope and the coming of brighter days.
- Prosperity: In some cultures, daffodils are associated with wealth and success, often given as gifts to wish someone prosperity.
- Respect: Giving daffodils can also be a sign of deep respect, as the flower demands attention with its bright presence amidst the last chills of winter.
WaterDaffodils, including the Narcissus 'Xit', prefer consistent moisture during their growing period. It's essential to water them thoroughly at planting time and keep the soil evenly moist until the foliage begins to yellow after blooming. Generally, watering once a week with about 1 gallon of water per square yard is sufficient. However, this may vary depending on rainfall and soil drainage. Reduce watering once the leaves start to die back, as daffodils are dormant over the summer months.
LightDaffodils, such as the Narcissus 'Xit', thrive best in full sun to partial shade. An ideal spot would be where they can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. If planted under deciduous trees, they will receive sufficient sunlight before the trees fully leaf out in early spring. Avoid deep shade as this can impede flowering.
TemperatureFor Narcissus 'Xit', or daffodils, the ideal growing temperatures range from 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They are hardy and can survive winter temperatures as low as 5 degrees Fahrenheit but should be planted in areas where temperatures do not exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit for extended periods. Daffodils enter a period of dormancy in summer when temperatures are higher.
PruningPruning, for daffodils such as Narcissus 'Xit', involves removing spent flowers to prevent seed formation, which can divert energy from bulb growth. Pruning is not needed for the foliage; instead, allow leaves to die back naturally as they provide the energy for the next year's blooms. The best time for pruning flowers is just after they have withered.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Narcissus 'Xit', commonly known as Daffodil 'Xit', should be well-draining with the ability to retain some moisture. A mix of loam, sand, and compost works well. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingDaffodil 'Xit' bulbs should be repotted every 2 to 3 years, ideally after the foliage has died back. This allows the bulbs to replenish their energy and prevents overcrowding which can reduce blooming.
Humidity & MistingDaffodil 'Xit' prefers outdoor conditions with natural humidity levels and does not require specific humidity adjustments. Average room humidity is generally sufficient for indoor cultivation.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and cool temperatures.
Outdoor
Plant in well-drained soil with full to partial sun.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Narcissus 'Xit', commonly known as a type of dwarf daffodil, begins its life cycle as a bulb, which is typically planted in well-drained soil during autumn before the first frost. After a period of dormancy in winter, the bulb utilizes stored energy to produce green shoots and leaves in early spring. The plant soon develops one or more stalks, each bearing a single white flower with a central cup or corona that is typically yellow or orange. Following pollination, which can be facilitated by bees or other insects, seeds may develop within the capsule-like fruit if conditions allow; however, reproduction is primarily through division of the bulb and offsets. Once flowering and seed production are complete, the foliage dies back, and the plant re-enters dormancy during summer, conserving energy within the bulb for the next growing season. In cultivation, the bulbs can be lifted and divided every few years to prevent overcrowding and to propagate the plant.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The Narcissus 'Xit', commonly known as the Miniature Daffodil, is typically propagated by dividing and replanting its bulbs. The best time for bulb division and propagation for this particular variety often occurs in late summer or early autumn, after the leaves have yellowed and died back, indicating the plant is entering dormancy. Gardeners will gently dig up the bulbs, taking care not to damage them, and then separate any smaller bulbs that have formed attached to the main bulb. These offsets, or daughter bulbs, should be removed from the mother bulb and allowed to dry for a day or two in a shaded, airy location. After they've had time to dry, the bulbs can be replanted immediately at a depth of approximately 6 inches (about 15 cm) and spaced about 3 to 4 inches (approximately 7.5 to 10 cm) apart in well-drained soil, ideally at a location that receives full to partial sunlight.
