White Hoop Petticoat Daffodil Narcissus cantabricus subsp. cantabricus var. foliosus (13)
ABOUT
The plant in question, commonly known as 'Cantabricus Daffodil', has distinctive features that make it recognizable. It produces elegant white flowers, each consisting of a trumpet-like corona surrounded by a ring of petal-like tepals. The corona is notably frilly at the edge, adding an ornate aspect to the flower's appearance. The tepals are typically arranged in a whorl and are broad, slightly overlapping each other, giving the bloom a harmonious and symmetrical look. The leaves of the Cantabricus Daffodil are narrow and long, presenting a deep green color that contrasts beautifully with the pure whiteness of the flowers. These leaves emerge from the base of the plant, forming a tufted clump and providing a lush, green backdrop for the delicate flowers. The overall form of the Cantabricus Daffodil is characterized by its upright flowers, which stand proudly above the foliage on sturdy stems. This plant creates an alluring display when in bloom, often becoming a captivating highlight in gardens where it is cultivated. Despite its refined appearance, the plant's size, in terms of its height and width, is not a subject of this description.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Cantabricus Daffodil, White Petticoat Daffodil, Spanish Hoop Petticoat.
Common names
Narcissus foliosus (Maire & Weiller) Fern.Casas, Nevada cantabrica (Haw.) Fern.Casas.
ToxicityTo humans
The Narcissus, commonly known as the daffodil, is toxic to humans if ingested. All parts of the plant contain poisonous alkaloids, with the bulb being the most toxic. Symptoms of daffodil poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and in severe cases, seizures, low blood pressure, tremors, and cardiac arrhythmias. Handling the bulb might also cause skin irritation or an allergic reaction for some people.
To pets
The daffodil, which is the most common name for the Narcissus species, is toxic to pets. Ingesting any part of the plant, especially the bulbs, can lead to severe symptoms, including vomiting, salivation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, heart rhythm abnormalities, convulsions, and potentially even death. It's important to prevent pets from accessing any area where daffodils are planted to avoid accidental ingestion.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
6 inches [15 cm]
Spread
6 inches [15 cm]
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Narcissus Cantabricus, commonly known as the White Hoop Petticoat Daffodil, adds aesthetic beauty to gardens with its unique, bell-shaped white flowers that bloom in late winter to early spring.
- Garden Ecosystem Support: It provides early-season nectar for pollinating insects, supporting the local ecosystem when few other nectar sources are available.
- Drought Resistance: Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant, requiring minimal watering and reducing the need for irrigation in suitable climates.
- Low Maintenance: The plant requires minimal care once planted, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels, as it is resistant to most pests and diseases.
- Naturalizing: It can naturalize in suitable climates and conditions, spreading gradually to form a carpet of blooms over the years and filling out landscape areas.
- Soil Erosion Control: The root system of this daffodil can help in stabilizing soil and preventing erosion, especially in sloped garden areas.
- Cold Hardy: It is cold-resistant and can successfully grow in cooler climates, providing early spring color even in areas with harsh winters.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The bulbs of the Narcissus plant can be used as a glue substitute. The sticky substance inside the bulb can be applied to bind items temporarily.
- Infusion of Narcissus flowers could be used to make a natural yellow dye for coloring fabrics and other materials.
- Dried Narcissus flower petals can serve as a natural potpourri, providing a fragrant smell in a room or drawer.
- The flowers can be incorporated into art and crafts projects, like pressing them into handmade paper for an aesthetic touch.
- Narcissus flowers can be used for floral waters or natural room sprays when steeped in water.
- Narcissus flowers may be used in culinary dishes as a decorative element, although they are not edible and must be used with caution to avoid ingestion.
- The strong stems of Narcissus can be used in basket-weaving as a decorative element.
- When dried, the seed pods of Narcissus could be used in creating eco-friendly rattles or other musical instruments for children's crafts.
- Narcissus petals can be used in scent bags to deter moths and other insects from closets and storage areas.
- The plant's fibrous leaves can be carefully processed and woven into natural bracelets or bookmarks, similar to traditional grass weaving techniques.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Paperwhite, which is a type of narcissus, can be used in Feng Shui to promote purity, renewal, and the attraction of positive energy, especially during the Chinese New Year. It is often placed in the home to bring good fortune and to signal the coming of spring.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Paperwhite is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Rebirth and New Beginnings: In many cultures, the common name of Narcissus cantabricus subsp. cantabricus var. foliosus is associated with spring and the idea of rebirth as they are often among the first flowers to bloom.
- Self-love: The name "Narcissus" is linked to the Greek myth of Narcissus, a young man who fell in love with his own reflection, symbolizing self-love and sometimes narcissism.
- Renewal: The perennial nature of the plant, with its cycle of disappearing in winter and reappearing in spring, signifies renewal and the continuity of life.
- Unrequited Love: In the language of flowers, also known as floriography, Narcissus can represent unrequited love, possibly drawing from the same Greek myth.
- Vanity: The Narcissus flower can serve as a symbol for vanity, given its connection to the mythological character who was obsessed with his own beauty.
- Wealth and Prosperity: Because of its bright appearance and early spring arrival, it can also be seen as a symbol of wealth and prosperity in some traditions.
- Hope: Their appearance in early spring represents hope, suggesting the end of winter and the promise of a new growing season.
WaterFor the White Hoop Petticoat Daffodil, water the plant thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry. This might result in watering approximately once a week, but frequency should be adjusted according to the moisture level of the soil and the plant's environment. During active growth, ensure the plant receives around 1 gallon of water to keep the soil evenly moist, not waterlogged. In winter, reduce watering to reflect the plant's dormancy period, providing perhaps a half-gallon every few weeks to prevent the soil from completely drying out.
LightThe White Hoop Petticoat Daffodil thrives in full sun to partial shade, meaning it requires direct sunlight for at least part of the day. The best spot would be where the plant can enjoy morning sunlight and some afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates. Avoid deep shade as it may inhibit the flowering of the plant.
TemperatureThe White Hoop Petticoat Daffodil prefers temperatures between 50°F and 70°F, ideal for stimulating growth and bloom. It can survive minimal temperatures of around 35°F but should not be exposed to freezing conditions for extended periods. The plant's bulbs can endure up to about 80°F during the growing season but should be kept cooler during its dormancy period in the summer.
PruningPruning the White Hoop Petticoat Daffodil mainly involves deadheading spent flowers to encourage further blooming and to maintain a neat appearance. After blooming, remove only the flower heads and allow the foliage to die back naturally, which helps the bulbs store energy for the next season. Annual pruning after the flowers have finished blooming is sufficient for this plant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Hoop Petticoat Daffodil thrives best in well-draining sandy or loamy soil, enriched with organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure. An ideal soil pH for this plant is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging between 6.0 and 7.0. A soil mix consisting of two parts loam, one part sand, and one part compost or leaf mold will provide the nutrients and drainage necessary for healthy growth.
RepottingThe Hoop Petticoat Daffodil typically needs repotting every 2 to 3 years. To ensure vigorous growth and flowering, repot the bulbs in the fall after the foliage has died back, using fresh soil mix.
Humidity & MistingThe Hoop Petticoat Daffodil prefers moderate humidity levels but is relatively adaptable. To maintain ideal growth conditions, aim for a humidity level between 40% and 60%.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and in cool temperatures.
Outdoor
Plant in sun to partial shade, in well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
6-9 USDA
Life cycleNarcissus cantabricus var. foliosus, commonly known as the White Hoop Petticoat daffodil, begins its life cycle as a seed, typically dispersed by wind or other natural mechanisms. Upon finding suitable soil, the seed germinates, and a bulb forms underground, which will store energy for the plant. In favorable seasons, typically in winter, foliage emerges from the bulb, consisting of a few narrow, strap-like leaves. Afterward, the plant produces its characteristic solitary white flowers with a trumpet-shaped corona, blooming between late winter and early spring. Following pollination by insects, the flowers will develop into capsules containing seeds, completing the cycle of reproduction. Once flowering and seed formation are complete, the plant enters dormancy during the hotter summer months, with the bulb lying in wait to restart the cycle with the next favorable growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
The most popular method of propagation for the Narcissus cantabricus subsp. cantabricus var. foliosus, commonly known as the Hoop Petticoat Daffodil, is by dividing its bulbs. This process is best done in late summer after the foliage has died back, usually around August. Gardeners should carefully lift the clump of bulbs and gently separate them by hand, being sure not to damage the basal plate from which roots grow. Each separated bulb should ideally have a bit of the base and some roots attached. It is then planted immediately to a depth of about 6 inches (approximately 15 centimeters), allowing it sufficient space to establish and produce blooms in the following spring. Ensuring proper spacing between the bulbs, about 3 to 4 inches (7.5 to 10 centimeters) apart, will provide enough room for growth and reduce the need for frequent dividing in the future.
