Daffodil Narcissus 'Bunting' (7)
ABOUT
The Narcissus 'Bunting' is a striking plant known commonly as daffodil. It is distinguished by its beautiful flowers which exhibit a unique color palette. The blooms of 'Bunting' daffodils are characteristically vibrant, with petals that are a soft shade of cream or white. At the center of each flower sits a contrasting trumpet-shaped corona that is usually a deeper hue, often displaying shades of yellow or orange. The corona may also occasionally have a slight ruffle at its edge, adding a touch of elegance to the flower's appearance. Daffodils, including the 'Bunting' variety, typically have a single flower per stem, which is backed by slender, sword-shaped leaves that are a lush green in color, providing a complementary backdrop to the attention-grabbing flowers. The foliage forms a tuft or clump at the base of the plant, sometimes with multiple stems rising from a single clump. The bloom of 'Bunting' daffodils can be described as a traditional daffodil shape with a symmetrical arrangement; however, it is their coloration and slight adornments that make them stand out. These plants are often grown for their ornamental value and are popular choices for gardens and floral displays due to their distinctive and cheerful appearance that signals the arrival of spring.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae
Synonyms
Daffodil, Jonquil, Narcissus
Common names
Narcissus 'Bunting'
ToxicityTo humans
Narcissus 'Bunting', more commonly known as a variety of daffodil, is toxic to humans if ingested. All parts of the daffodil contain poisonous chemicals, with the bulb being the most toxic part. Poisoning symptoms from daffodils include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and sometimes even more severe reactions like cardiac arrhythmias or convulsions. Handling the bulbs may also cause skin irritation or dermatitis in sensitive individuals. It’s essential that these plants not be consumed, and care should be taken to differentiate the bulbs from those of edible plants like onions, as they can look superficially similar when not in flower.
To pets
Narcissus 'Bunting', known commonly as daffodil, is toxic to pets if they consume any part of the plant. The bulbs, leaves, and flowers of the daffodil can cause poisoning. Symptoms in pets after ingestion can include vomiting, salivation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, heart rhythm abnormalities, convulsions, and potentially serious drop in blood pressure. In severe cases, daffodil poisoning may lead to death. It is crucial to keep daffodils out of reach of pets, and to be vigilant during the spring when these flowers are in bloom.
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 Appeal: Narcissus 'Bunting' adds aesthetic value to gardens with its beautiful flowers and pleasing color palette.
- Attracts Pollinators: The blooms can attract bees and other pollinating insects, which are vital for the health of any garden ecosystem.
- Easy to Grow: This type of daffodil is considered hardy and easy to cultivate, making it a good choice for novice gardeners.
- Spring Bloom: As a spring-flowering bulb, it provides early color to gardens after winter, which can lift spirits and indicate the arrival of warmer weather.
- Perennial Growth: Narcissus 'Bunting' comes back year after year, providing long-term value and reducing the need to replant annually.
- Naturalizing: Over time, these plants can spread and multiply, creating natural drifts of color in the landscape.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, they generally require little care, making them suitable for low-maintenance gardens.
- Cutting Garden Addition: The flowers are suitable for cutting and can be brought indoors to create floral arrangements.
- Deer Resistance: Narcissus is typically resistant to deer, which helps to prevent damage to the garden from wildlife.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Narcissus 'Bunting' can be used in photo shoots and art installations for its striking appearance and as a representation of the onset of spring.
- The plant's fibrous stems might be explored for their potential in paper-making processes, offering an alternative use for this agricultural byproduct.
- In perfumery, the extracts or essence of Narcissus 'Bunting' flowers may be used to create a unique and enchanting fragrance.
- Dried Narcissus 'Bunting' flowers could be incorporated into potpourri mixes for their delightful scent and decorative appeal.
- The bulbs can be used in educational settings to demonstrate plant growth cycles and bulb propagation techniques to students.
- Narcissus 'Bunting' essence is sometimes used in aromatherapy products, like candles and diffuser oils, for its purported soothing qualities.
- The flowers may be used in eco-friendly dye-making processes, potentially yielding subtle colors from their natural pigments.
- Culinary artists might use crystallized Narcissus 'Bunting' petals as edible decorations for cakes and desserts.
- Narcissus 'Bunting' is often featured in cultural festivals and garden shows, showcasing horticultural achievements and varieties.
- Floral waste from Narcissus 'Bunting', such as discarded petals and leaves, can be composted to contribute to a sustainable gardening practice.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Daffodil is usually not specifically referenced in Feng Shui literature, but as a flowering plant, it can be used to bring positive energy or chi into the home, promote a peaceful atmosphere, enhance well-being and prosperity. In Feng Shui, yellow flowers can symbolize happiness and good fortune, so placing Daffodils in the center of the home or in the wealth & prosperity area might foster a sense of joy and abundance.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Daffodil is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Renewal and New Beginnings: Narcissus flowers, including the 'Bunting' variety, typically bloom in early spring, symbolizing the end of winter and the start of a new growth period.
- Self-Esteem and Vanity: The flower is associated with the Greek myth of Narcissus, a young man who fell in love with his own reflection. Thus, it often represents self-love and sometimes, excessive pride.
- Prosperity: In some cultures, narcissus flowers signify wealth and success, possibly because of their rich and abundant blossoms.
- Hope and Inspiration: Their ability to sprout from the cold ground is seen as a sign of hope and inspiration for overcoming challenges.
- Rebirth: Closely tied to renewal, the narcissus can also symbolize rebirth, with its perennial nature representing the cycle of life and continuity.
WaterDaffodils, which include the Narcissus 'Bunting', should be watered thoroughly upon planting and then regularly during the growing season if rainfall is less than 1 inch per week. You should aim to provide them with approximately 1 gallon of water per square yard every week during their active growth period. Water the soil around the daffodils deeply to encourage root development, but let the soil dry out slightly between waterings to prevent bulb rot. Once the flowers have finished blooming and the leaves start yellowing, you can reduce the watering frequency as the plant is entering dormancy.
LightDaffodils like the Narcissus 'Bunting' perform best in full sun to partial shade. An ideal location offers at least six hours of direct sunlight per day, which promotes strong growth and optimal flowering. However, they can also tolerate light shade, particularly in hot climates where some protection from the afternoon sun can be beneficial to prevent the flowers from fading quickly.
TemperatureDaffodils including Narcissus 'Bunting' are cold-hardy and can tolerate winter temperatures down to 15°F. They require a period of cold dormancy; therefore, the ideal planting time is in the fall when the soil temperature falls below 60°F. They flourish during the spring in temperatures between 50°F and 70°F. Extreme heat can lead to stress, and temperatures consistently above 90°F can be detrimental to the plant's health.
PruningPruning of daffodils, including the Narcissus 'Bunting', primarily involves removing spent flower heads after blooming to prevent seed formation, which can divert energy from the bulb. This deadheading process should be done shortly after the flowers fade. Leave the foliage to die back naturally; do not cut back the leaves until they have yellowed, typically about six weeks after flowering, as they are replenishing the bulb for the next season.
CleaningNot needed
SoilDaffodil 'Bunting' prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH, ideally between 6.0 and 7.0. A good soil mix can be made from equal parts of loamy garden soil, peat moss, and sand or perlite to ensure proper drainage. Adding compost or well-rotted manure will provide nutrients for healthy growth.
RepottingDaffodil 'Bunting' bulbs do not need frequent repotting and can be left undisturbed for several years. Repotting is typically done after the foliage has died back, usually every 3 to 5 years, to divide the bulbs if they become overcrowded.
Humidity & MistingDaffodil 'Bunting' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does not have specific humidity requirements. Average room humidity is generally suitable for this plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Daffodil 'Bunting' in bright, indirect light indoors and ensure good airflow.
Outdoor
Plant Daffodil 'Bunting' in a sunny spot with well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Narcissus 'Bunting', commonly known as daffodil 'Bunting', begins with a period of dormancy where the bulb rests underground during colder months. As temperatures rise in early spring, the bulb breaks dormancy and sends up shoots, leading to the growth of long, narrow leaves and a central flower stalk. The flower bud at the top of the stalk blooms into a bright flower, typically characterized by a trumpet-shaped corona surrounded by a ring of petals. After flowering, the plant goes through a period of seed development, wherein the ovary swells as seeds form, though garden varieties like 'Bunting' are often propagated by bulb division rather than seeds. Once seeds are mature or the plant has been pollinated, the foliage begins to die back, signaling the end of the growing season. Finally, the bulb enters another period of dormancy, conserving energy for the next growth cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Narcissus 'Bunting', commonly known as Bunting Daffodil, is most effectively propagated by dividing its bulbs. The ideal time to do this is when the foliage has died back after flowering, usually in late summer to early fall. To propagate, you should gently lift the clump of bulbs from the soil with a garden fork, being careful not to damage the bulbs. Once out of the ground, the bulbs can be separated by hand, gently pulling apart offsets from the mother bulbs. These offsets can then be replanted at a depth of about 6 inches (15 cm) and spaced approximately 6 inches (15 cm) apart to allow for adequate room for growth. It’s important to plant the bulbs in well-drained soil with good sunlight to ensure the best chances of successful propagation.
