Daffodil Narcissus 'Wheal Coates' (7)
ABOUT
Narcissus 'Wheal Coates', commonly known as the daffodil, boasts a striking appearance with distinctive characteristics that set it apart from other daffodil varieties. This variety features bright, showy flowers, typically with a single bloom per stem. The petals are usually arranged in a whorl, spreading around a prominent central cup or corona. The central cup is of a contrasting color, often a deeper shade than the surrounding petals, which can range from pure white to varying shades of yellow. The daffodil blooms are supported by sturdy, upright stems that emerge from a base of long, slender, and slightly arching leaves. These leaves are typically a rich green color and have a smooth, sword-like form that adds a graceful background to the vivid blooms. In full bloom, the 'Wheal Coates' daffodil exhibits a particularly cohesive and uniform look, making it a popular choice for gardeners aiming for visual impact. The overall look of Narcissus 'Wheal Coates' is one of classic beauty typical of springtime flowers, making it a beloved choice for gardens, flower beds, and as cut flowers for indoor decoration. The blooms not only provide visual appeal but are also frequently fragrant, adding a delightful scent to their environment. Despite not mentioning the dimensions, itβs clear that this daffodil variety possesses a presence that can punctuate a garden scene with its bright, cheerful flowers.
About this plant
- Names
Family
Amaryllidaceae
Synonyms
Daffodil, Jonquil
Common names
Narcissus 'Wheal Coates'
- Toxicity
To humans
The Narcissus 'Wheal Coates' is commonly known as the daffodil. All parts of the daffodil contain alkaloids that can be toxic if ingested, with the bulb being the most poisonous. If a person eats any part of a daffodil, symptoms of poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and in severe cases, seizures, low blood pressure, or cardiac arrhythmias. Handling the bulb can also cause dermatitis in sensitive individuals.
To pets
The daffodil is toxic to pets, including both cats and dogs. The ingestion of any part of the plant, particularly the bulbs, can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, salivation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, heart rhythm abnormalities, convulsions, and potentially, significant drops in blood pressure or even cardiac arrhythmias. In severe cases, consuming daffodils can be fatal to pets.
- Characteristics
Life cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1 feet 2-3 inches (35-38 cm)
Spread
1 feet (30 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
- General Benefits
- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds vibrant color and visual interest to gardens and landscapes.
- Easy to Grow: Known for being low-maintenance and easy to care for.
- Spring Blossoms: Produces beautiful flowers that are among the first to bloom in spring.
- Perennial Growth: Returns year after year, providing long-term garden presence.
- Container Gardening: Suitable for pots and containers, offering flexibility in garden design.
- Cut Flowers: Blossoms are suitable for cutting and can be used in floral arrangements.
- Naturalizing: Has the ability to spread and naturalize over time, filling garden spaces.
- Medical Properties
This plant is not used for medical purposes.
- Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
- Other Uses
- The bulbs of daffodils like the Narcissus 'Wheal Coates' can be used as a natural dye source for fabrics, providing a range of yellow and gold hues depending on the mordant used.
- Daffodil flowers can be crystallized and used as edible decorations on cakes and desserts, although it's important to ensure they have not been treated with chemicals.
- Extracts from daffodils have been used in perfumery to create unique floral scents that capture the essence of spring.
- Daffodil patches can act as pest repellents in gardens, as many rodents and deer avoid them due to their toxic properties.
- As a symbol of rebirth and new beginnings, daffodils are often planted in memory gardens or as part of commemorative landscapes.
- Dried daffodil petals are sometimes incorporated into potpourri mixes to add a spring-like aroma to indoor spaces.
- Daffodils can be used in photography and art projects to illustrate concepts of impermanence and the cycle of life, as they bloom and fade with the season.
- Gardeners can utilize the cut flowers in floral arrangements for events that celebrate new ventures, such as business openings or graduation ceremonies.
- The vibrant yellow color of daffodils is sometimes used by landscape designers to create visual focal points in gardens and parks.
- Daffodils can be used in cultural and literary events, like poetry readings or art installations, due to their strong association with literary figures such as William Wordsworth.
Interesting Facts
- Feng Shui
The Narcissus is not used in Feng Shui practice.
- Zodiac Sign Compitability
The Narcissus is not used in astrology practice.
- Plant Symbolism
- Self-Love: The name Narcissus is linked with the Greek myth of Narcissus, a young man who became infatuated with his own reflection. Thus, it symbolizes self-love and narcissism.
- Renewal: As a spring-blooming flower, the Narcissus, commonly known as daffodil, often signifies renewal and the coming of new beginnings.
- Vanity: Again, drawing from the myth of Narcissus, the daffodil is sometimes associated with vanity and excessive self-admiration.
- Good Fortune: In some cultures, daffodils are believed to bring good fortune, especially when they are the first to bloom in spring.
- Unrequited Love: The one-sided love of Narcissus towards his own image leads to the association of the daffodil with unrequited love.
- Respect: Giving daffodils as a bunch is believed to convey a message of respect and politeness.
- Prosperity: The bright yellow color of some daffodils is also associated with wealth and prosperity, especially around the time of Chinese New Year.
- Water
Daffodils, including Narcissus 'Wheal Coates', typically require thorough watering at planting time and moderate watering while in active growth, especially during dry spells. Once established, they are quite drought-tolerant and seldom need additional water. During the growing season, you may water them with about 1 inch of water per week. However, overwatering or leaving them in soggy soil can cause bulb rot, so ensure the soil is well-draining. In the dormant season, after the leaves have died back, watering can be reduced significantly or stopped altogether.
- Light
Daffodils thrive in a location with full sun to partial shade. The ideal spot for Narcissus 'Wheal Coates' is where they can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. However, they can tolerate some light afternoon shade, especially in hotter regions. Plant them in an area that's bright and receives morning sun if possible, as this will encourage strong growth and better blooms.
- Temperature
Daffodils, such as Narcissus 'Wheal Coates', prefer a temperate climate with a maximum temperature range of around 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit during their growing season. They can survive minimum winter temperatures down to about -20 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature range for these daffodils lies between 50 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit, which encourages good flowering. Make sure to protect the bulbs from extreme heat during dormancy.
- Pruning
Daffodils, including Narcissus 'Wheal Coates', do not require traditional pruning but deadheading spent flowers after blooming encourages the plant to put more energy into bulb growth rather than seed production. Leave the foliage in place until it turns yellow and withers, typically about six weeks after flowering, which allows the plant to photosynthesize and store energy for the next season. Divide clumps if flowering diminishes or the plants become overcrowded, typically every 3-5 years.
- Cleaning
Not needed
- Soil
Daffodil 'Wheal Coates' thrives in well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH, around 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of loamy soil, compost, and some sand or perlite to enhance drainage creates an ideal growing medium for these bulbs.
- Repotting
Daffodil 'Wheal Coates' typically does not require frequent repotting and can be left undisturbed for several years. Once the clumps become overcrowded, usually every 3 to 5 years, they should be divided and repotted in the fall.
- Humidity & Misting
Daffodil 'Wheal Coates' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does not require a specific humidity to flourish. Average room humidity is generally suitable for this plant.
- Suitable locations
Indoor
Place in bright, indirect light and keep the soil moist in growth period.
Outdoor
Plant bulbs in autumn, full to partial sun, in well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
- Life cycle
The life of Narcissus 'Wheal Coates', commonly known as daffodil, begins as a bulb, which is a dormant stage that allows the plant to survive adverse conditions. During spring, as temperatures rise and daylight increases, the bulb breaks dormancy and starts to sprout, producing green shoots and roots. The shoots grow into leaves that carry out photosynthesis to fuel the plant's growth, and a flower stalk emerges, eventually blooming into the characteristic yellow flower. After the flowering stage, the plant goes through pollination, which can result from wind or insect activity, leading to the development of a seed capsule if fertilization occurs. As the flowers fade and the seeds mature, the plant begins to die back, with the foliage turning yellow and receding into the bulb as the plant enters dormancy. Throughout the rest of the year, the bulb remains underground until the next favorable growth cycle begins, and the process repeats.
- Propogation
Propogation time
Spring to Summer
The Narcissus 'Wheal Coates', commonly known as daffodil, is best propagated by dividing the bulbs. This method is usually done in the late summer to early fall, after the foliage has died back but before the ground freezes. To propagate by division, carefully lift the clump of bulbs from the ground using a garden fork, taking care not to damage the bulbs. Gently separate the bulbs by hand, ensuring that each division has at least one growing point or bud. Replant the bulbs immediately at a depth of about 6 inches (15 centimeters), approximately 3 times the height of the bulb, and spaced about 3 to 4 inches (7.6 to 10 centimeters) apart to give them enough room to grow. Water the newly planted bulbs well to establish them. This method allows for a quick increase in the number of plants and is a simple and efficient way to ensure the continued growth and spread of the Narcissus 'Wheal Coates' variety.