Daffodil Narcissus 'Suzy' (7)
ABOUT
Narcissus 'Suzy' is a type of daffodil renowned for its vibrant colors and elegant appearance. It typically boasts a single flower per stem characterized by its unique combination of hues. The petals are a soft, buttery yellow that radiate outward, forming a backdrop for the strikingly contrasting cup at the center which is a vivid orange or a deep tangerine shade. This trumpet-like cup, also known as the corona, is frilled at the margin, giving it a ruffled look that adds depth and character to the flower. The foliage of Narcissus 'Suzy' is slender and elongated, presenting a deep green color that complements the sunny disposition of the blossoms. The leaves grow from the base of the plant, creating a tuft of grass-like blades that enhance the overall aesthetic of the plant and provide a contrasting texture to the softness of the petals. Given its eye-catching color palette, Narcissus 'Suzy' makes a striking impact when planted in clusters or drifts, as the combination of yellow and orange hues creates a bold display of springtime exuberance that can enliven any garden setting. This captivating daffodil is often chosen not only for its aesthetic qualities but also for its durability and ease of care, making it a favorite among garden enthusiasts.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Daffodil, Jonquil, Narcissus
Common names
Narcissus 'Suzy'
ToxicityTo humans
Daffodil, which Narcissus 'Suzy' is a cultivar of, is considered toxic to humans. The plant contains alkaloids such as lycorine, that can be harmful if ingested. Eating any part of the daffodil can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In more severe cases, ingesting daffodil parts could lead to dehydration, convulsions, and potentially be life-threatening due to its cardiotoxic and neurotoxic effects. It is particularly important to avoid confusion with edible plants, such as onions, as daffodil bulbs look somewhat similar.
To pets
Daffodil, the common name for Narcissus 'Suzy', is toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. The toxicity comes from the alkaloid lycorine, found in all parts of the plant, especially the bulb. If a pet ingests daffodil, symptoms may include vomiting, salivation, diarrhea, convulsions, low blood pressure, tremors, and cardiac arrhythmias. In severe cases, it can lead to serious gastrointestinal issues, cardiac problems, and potentially be fatal if not treated promptly. It is important to keep daffodils out of reach of pets and to seek veterinary care immediately if ingestion occurs.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1 foot 2 inches (35 centimeters)
Spread
0 feet 6 inches (15 centimeters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3 to 9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Decorative Appeal: Narcissus 'Suzy' adds color with its vibrant yellow-orange cup and petals, enhancing garden aesthetics.
- Easy to Grow: Daffodils are known for being low-maintenance, which makes them a great choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.
- Spring Blooming: As a spring-flowering bulb, it provides early-season blooms that can be among the first signs of spring.
- Pest Resistance: Narcissus bulbs are typically resistant to pests, especially deer and rodents, which often avoid them.
- Naturalizing: Over time, Narcissus 'Suzy' can spread and naturalize in the landscape, creating a more robust display each year.
- Cut Flower: The blooms make excellent cut flowers, which are long-lasting and can be used to create vibrant indoor arrangements.
- Cold Hardy: Daffodils are capable of withstanding cold winter climates, making them suitable for a variety of temperate gardens.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dye Production: The petals of the daffodil 'Suzy' can be used to make yellow dye for fabrics or inks.
- Fragrance Extraction: The flowers can be processed to extract their scent, which is used in perfumery and scented products.
- Crafts and Decorations: Daffodil 'Suzy' flowers can be dried and used in wreaths, dried flower arrangements, or other craft projects.
- Photography Subjects: Their vibrant colors and unique shape make them popular subjects for photographers and artists.
- Symbolic Gifts: Daffodils symbolize rebirth and new beginnings, making them meaningful gifts for events like promotions or housewarmings.
- Garden Pest Repellent: Planting daffodils 'Suzy' may help deter certain garden pests like rodents, as these animals generally avoid daffodil bulbs.
- Companion Planting: Daffodils 'Suzy' can be planted among other bulbs to create timed flowering sequences in the garden.
- Eco-friendly Confetti: Petals of the daffodil 'Suzy' can be used as biodegradable confetti for outdoor celebrations.
- Floral Waters: The flowers can be steeped in water to create lightly scented floral waters for room fresheners.
- Memory Gardens: They can be planted in remembrance gardens as they have associations with memories and nostalgia.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Daffodil is often used in Feng Shui as a symbol of good fortune and prosperity. It is best placed in the wealth corner of a home, which is typically the southeast corner, to attract positive energy and encourage wealth and abundance.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Daffodil is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Rebirth and New Beginnings: The Narcissus, commonly known as the daffodil, is one of the first flowers to bloom in spring, symbolizing the end of winter and the onset of a new life cycle.
- Vanity and Self-absorption: Originating from the Greek myth of Narcissus, a young man who fell in love with his own reflection, daffodils can represent excessive self-love and vanity.
- Unrequited Love: In some traditions, daffodils are a symbol of unrequited love, possibly stemming from Narcissus's inability to attain the object of his love—himself.
- Prosperity and Wealth: Since daffodils often bloom around the time of the Chinese New Year, they are considered lucky and associated with prosperity and wealth in Chinese culture.
- Respect and Admiration: Giving a bunch of daffodils can symbolize respect and admiration for someone, due to their bright and cheery disposition.
- Hope: The daffodil's bright yellow color symbolizes hope and encouragement, often given as a sign of support to those facing challenges.
- Uncertainty and Deceit: Because of the myth of Narcissus, the daffodil can sometimes symbolize uncertainty, self-deception, or the inability to see things clearly.
WaterDaffodil 'Suzy' should be watered thoroughly whenever the top inches of soil feel dry to the touch; this might be once a week depending on climate conditions and soil type. Daffodils generally thrive with about 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall. During active growth and blooming in spring, ensure consistent moisture. Once the daffodils have finished blooming, gradually reduce watering as the foliage begins to die back. In general, it's about one gallon of water for an area of 10 square feet per week during the growing season.
LightThe Daffodil 'Suzy' prefers to be positioned in a spot where it can receive full sun to partial shade. Full sun, which entails at least six hours of direct sunlight daily, will ensure the most vigorous growth and best flowering results. However, these daffodils can also tolerate light shade, especially in the hotter parts of the day, which can protect the flowers from fading quickly.
TemperatureOptimal temperature conditions for the Daffodil 'Suzy' are between 50°F and 60°F. These daffodils can withstand a temporary dip to around 10°F without damage once established, and the maximum temperature tolerated is around 75°F. These hardy flowers prefer the cooler temperatures of spring and fall, and their dormancy during summer corresponds to the natural hot season.
PruningPruning Daffodil 'Suzy' mainly involves deadheading the spent flowers after blooming to encourage bulb strength. Pruning is not needed for foliage; however, allow the leaves to die back naturally, as they feed the bulbs for next year's growth. The best time to prune or deadhead these daffodils is shortly after the flowers fade, but always leave the foliage in place until it yellows and dies back on its own.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Narcissus 'Suzy', commonly known as the Daffodil, is well-draining, fertile soil with good organic matter. It needs a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0 for optimal growth.
RepottingDaffodils generally do not require frequent repotting and can remain in the same spot for several years; repotting every 3 to 5 years is sufficient unless bulbs become overcrowded.
Humidity & MistingDaffodils prefer average to low humidity levels; excessively high humidity can promote fungal diseases.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and keep soil moderately moist.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade in well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleNarcissus 'Suzy', commonly known as the 'Suzy' Daffodil, begins its life cycle as a bulb planted in the autumn before the first frost. The bulb remains dormant underground during the winter, conserving energy. With the arrival of spring, the bulb sends up shoots that develop into green stems and leaves. Following the foliage, the 'Suzy' Daffodil produces vibrant yellow flowers with an orange cup, usually blooming in early to mid-spring. After flowering, the plant enters a period of photosynthesis to gather energy, which is stored in the bulb for the next growth cycle. Once the leaves yellow and wither, the plant enters dormancy again until the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
Propogation: Narcissus 'Suzy', commonly known as a variety of Daffodil, can be propagated primarily by dividing the bulbs, a process best done in the fall after the leaves have died back. In this approach, you would carefully dig up the clump of bulbs and gently separate the offsets, which are the small bulbs that form at the base of a mature bulb. These offsets can be replanted immediately after division at a depth of about 6 inches (around 15 cm), with the pointed end facing up, and spaced about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) apart to allow room for growth. This method allows the new plants to establish themselves over the fall and winter and to bloom in the spring. It is favored for its simplicity and effectiveness in producing true-to-type offspring that will flower in subsequent seasons.
