Hoop Petticoat Daffodil Narcissus bulbocodium (13)
ABOUT
Narcissus bulbocodium, commonly known as the hoop petticoat daffodil, is characterized by its distinctive trumpet-like flowers. These blooms possess a prominent central cone that is surrounded by petal-like segments, which are often significantly smaller than the cone itself, giving the appearance of a hoop petticoat. The color of its petals is usually a bright yellow, providing a vibrant and cheerful display. The leaves are narrow, resembling slender, dark green blades that emerge from the base of the plant. These leaves can sometimes be slightly grayish-green, adding a subtle contrast to the bold color of the flowers. The overall structure of the plant is such that it can sway gracefully with the breeze, and it is often found in clumps that create a visual impression of a sea of miniature, golden trumpets. The unique shape and coloration of the hoop petticoat daffodil make it a striking addition to gardens and a standout among springtime blooms.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae
Synonyms
Hoop Petticoat Daffodil, Petticoat Daffodil, Bulbocodium Daffodil
Common names
Narcissus moschatus, Narcissus broussonetii, Narcissus minor, Queltia bulbocodium, Hermione bulbocodium, Ajax bulbocodium, Narcissus citrinus, Narcissus serotinus.
ToxicityTo humans
The most common name for Narcissus bulbocodium is hoop petticoat daffodil. It is poisonous if ingested due to the presence of lycorine and other alkaloids. Symptoms of poisoning from hoop petticoat daffodil can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, dehydration, convulsions, and a drop in blood pressure could follow. Contact with the sap may also cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
To pets
Hoop petticoat daffodil is toxic to pets because of its lycorine and other noxious alkaloids. If ingested by animals, it may result in symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and sometimes excessive drooling. Ingesting large amounts can lead to more serious issues such as cardiac arrhythmias or respiratory depression. Care should be taken to prevent pets from accessing any part of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
6 inches (15 cm)
Spread
3 inches (7.5 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Southwest Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Narcissus bulbocodium, commonly known as hoop petticoat daffodil, adds a touch of beauty to gardens with its unique trumpet-shaped flowers and bright yellow hues.
- Spring Color: It is one of the early bloomers in spring, providing vibrant colors when many other plants are still waking from dormancy.
- Naturalizing: This plant is known for its ability to naturalize, meaning it can spread and multiply, creating larger displays over time without much intervention.
- Easy to Grow: The hoop petticoat daffodil is relatively easy to cultivate and maintain, making it suitable for gardeners of all experience levels.
- Pest Resistant: It is generally resistant to deer and rodents, reducing the likelihood of damage from these animals feeding on the plants.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, Narcissus bulbocodium can tolerate periods of dryness, making it suitable for regions with less consistent rainfall.
- Minimal Maintenance: These plants require little maintenance after planting, aside from possible division every few years to prevent overcrowding.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers can attract bees and other pollinators to the garden, which is beneficial for the pollination of other plants and overall garden health.
- Versatility: The hoop petticoat daffodil can be planted in garden beds, borders, rock gardens, or containers, providing flexibility in garden design.
- Seasonal Interest: Narcissus bulbocodium’s flowering provides a specific seasonal interest, marking the arrival of the spring season in the garden.
- Companion Planting: They can be paired with other spring blooms, such as tulips and hyacinths, to enhance the overall display of springtime color.
- Cut Flowers: The distinctive blooms can be cut and used in floral arrangements to enjoy their beauty indoors.
- Gift Planting: The bulbs are commonly gifted and planted in remembrance or as a celebration of new beginnings, often associated with the symbolism of daffodils.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Narcissus bulbocodium, commonly known as hoop petticoat, has been historically used as a weaving material. The fibrous leaves can be dried and woven into small items such as baskets and mats.
- In some cultures, hoop petticoat bulbs have been crushed and used as a glue or paste in bookbinding and paper repairs, due to their sticky sap when broken down.
- Flowers of the hoop petticoat are sometimes used in perfumery as a source of fragrance, although this is not common practice due to the plant's limited yield and difficulty in extracting the essential oils.
- Hoop petticoat flowers are used in botanical illustration and photography classes as subjects due to their unique structure and the challenge they present in capturing their detail.
- The plant has been cultivated for decorative dye, where parts of the plant are used to produce a faint yellow dye for textiles.
- Narcissus bulbocodium has been included in some traditional ceremonies as decorative elements, such as in wedding bouquets or floral arrangements.
- The plant is sometimes grown as a companion plant in gardens, believed to deter certain types of pests, although there is limited scientific evidence to support this.
- Children have been known to use the trumpet-shaped flowers as natural dolls or fairy skirts in imaginative play, which can foster an appreciation for nature in early childhood education.
- In art, hoop petticoat flowers are a popular motif in watercolor painting, as artists are challenged by their delicate, translucent petals and vivid colors.
- Occasionally, dried narcissus flowers are incorporated into homemade potpourri mixtures to add fragrance and aesthetic appeal when placed in a bowl or sachets.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Narcissus is often used in Feng Shui to attract good fortune and wealth, particularly during the Chinese New Year. It is believed to encourage the inflow of positive energy, or chi, when placed in the southeast area of a home or office.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Narcissus is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Renewal and New Beginnings: Narcissus bulbocodium, commonly known as the Hoop Petticoat daffodil, blooms in early spring, symbolizing the end of winter and the arrival of new life.
- Vanity: The flower is linked to the Greek myth of Narcissus, who fell in love with his own reflection. It represents self-love and vanity.
- Prosperity: In some cultures, the Hoop Petticoat daffodil is a symbol of wealth and success, as its appearance signals the end of the dormant winter period.
- Uncertainty: This plant may also symbolize uncertainty due to the story of Narcissus, where excessive self-focus led to his demise.
WaterHoop Petticoat daffodil should be watered regularly during its growth period, which is in spring when it is actively growing and blooming. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, so watering once a week with about a gallon of water per square yard should suffice, depending on soil type and climate. When the leaves start to yellow and die back after flowering, reduce watering as the plant begins its dormancy period. During dormancy in the summer, watering can be minimal to prevent the bulb from rotting.
LightHoop Petticoat daffodil thrives best in partial to full sunlight. Ideally, they should be planted in a location that receives direct sun for at least half the day. They can tolerate light shade, especially in hotter climates, but too much shade may impair flowering.
TemperatureThe Hoop Petticoat daffodil prefers cooler temperatures and can survive minimum temperatures down to about 15 degrees Fahrenheit. They thrive in a temperature range of 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit and should be planted in fall to ensure exposure to cold temperatures which is necessary for the bulbs to bloom properly. They can tolerate temperatures up to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, but prolonged heat can be detrimental.
PruningPrune Hoop Petticoat daffodils by deadheading spent flowers to encourage more blooms and to maintain plant aesthetics. Do not cut the foliage until it has completely yellowed and died back naturally, usually several weeks after blooming. This allows the plant to photosynthesize and store energy in the bulbs for next year's growth. Pruning is typically done in late spring or early summer, depending on your climate.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Hoop Petticoat Daffodil thrives in well-draining, sandy loam soil with generous organic matter. The ideal pH for the soil is mildly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. A mixture of two parts loam, one part sand or perlite, and one part compost or well-rotted manure will create an optimal environment for this plant.
RepottingHoop Petticoat Daffodils typically do not need to be repotted often as they are grown from bulbs. Repotting or dividing the bulbs is recommended every 3-4 years to prevent overcrowding and to maintain plant vigor.
Humidity & MistingHoop Petticoat Daffodils are not particularly humidity-sensitive but prefer average air humidity levels. They can tolerate the humidity conditions typically found in temperate regions without the need for special adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, cool temps, and plant in well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant in full to partial sun and well-drained, fertile soil.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleNarcissus bulbocodium, commonly known as the hoop petticoat daffodil, starts its life as a bulb that lies dormant underground during the summer months. In the fall, the bulb begins to develop roots which absorb nutrients from the soil. As temperatures cool, it enters a period of vernalization, which is necessary for the subsequent development of the flowers. Come late winter to early spring, leaves and a flowering stem emerge from the bulb, with the characteristic yellow, trumpet-shaped bloom opening when conditions are favorable. After flowering, the plant sets seed while the foliage photosynthesizes to replenish the bulb's energy reserves. Finally, as temperatures rise in late spring to early summer, the above-ground parts of the plant die back, and the bulb reenters dormancy until the next fall.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
Narcissus bulbocodium, commonly known as hoop petticoat daffodil, is typically propagated through division of the bulbs, which is the most popular method due to its simplicity and effectiveness. The best time to propagate hoop petticoat daffodils by dividing the bulbs is in the late summer to early fall, after the foliage has died back. During this period, the bulbs are dormant, making it an ideal time for handling and transplanting. To propagate, gently dig up the daffodil clumps and carefully separate the bulbs, ensuring that each division has at least one growing point. The bulbs should be replanted immediately at a depth about three times their height, approximately 3 to 6 inches deep (7.5 to 15 cm), in well-drained soil with adequate sunlight. This method allows the new plants to establish a root system before the onset of winter.
