Wild Daffodil Narcissus lobularis (Haw.) Schult. & Schult. f. (13)
ABOUT
Narcissus lobularis, commonly known as the daffodil, features an iconic bloom that is deeply ingrained in popular culture as a symbol of spring. This perennial flower typically showcases a bright, trumpet-shaped central corona surrounded by a ring of petal-like structures called tepals which are usually uniform and overlapping. The flower itself is well-known for its striking coloration, which predominantly ranges from a vibrant yellow to a creamy white, and it may also display varying hues such as orange or pink in the corona. The distinctive structure of its flower, with the central corona often appearing in a contrasting color to the tepals, lends the daffodil a sense of depth and a dramatic appearance. The vivid colors and unique form make it a favorite among gardeners and have contributed to its widespread recognition and cultural significance as a harbinger of spring and renewal.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae
Synonyms
Jonquil, Rush Daffodil
Common names
Narcissus bulbocodium var. praecox (Salisb.) Baker, Narcissus canaliculatus DC., Narcissus moschatus var. lobularis Haw., Narcissus moschatus subsp. lobularis (Haw.) Baker, Queltia lobularis (Haw.) Herb.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as wild daffodil is considered poisonous to humans. All parts of the plant contain toxic alkaloids such as lycorine and others that can cause poisoning if ingested. Symptoms of poisoning from the wild daffodil can include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and in severe cases, cardiac arrhythmias, convulsions, or even coma. Ingesting any part of this plant, especially the bulbs, which contain the highest concentration of these toxic compounds, can lead to the aforementioned symptoms and potential medical complications.
To pets
Wild daffodil is toxic to pets due to the presence of alkaloids like lycorine. If a pet ingests any part of the wild daffodil, they may exhibit symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, drooling, convulsions, low blood pressure, tremors, and cardiac arrhythmias. In severe cases, ingestion can be fatal. Owners should prevent their pets from having access to wild daffodils and seek veterinary care immediately if they suspect their pet has ingested any part of this plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1-1.5 feet (30-45 cm)
Spread
6-12 inches (15-30 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
4-9
Native area
Western Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Value: Narcissus lobularis, commonly known as the wild daffodil, adds beauty to gardens and natural settings with its bright yellow flowers that bloom in spring.
- Ecosystem Support: Wild daffodils provide early spring nectar for pollinators such as bees, which are important for maintaining healthy ecosystems.
- Cultural Symbolism: The wild daffodil has cultural significance in various traditions, symbolizing rebirth and new beginnings due to its association with spring.
- Garden Diversity: Incorporating wild daffodils into a garden increases plant variety and contributes to biodiversity, supporting various insects and other wildlife.
- Low Maintenance: As a hardy perennial, wild daffodils require minimal care once established, making them a convenient choice for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Naturalizing: The wild daffodil has the ability to naturalize, meaning it can spread and form larger colonies over time, creating impressive displays with minimal human intervention.
- Soil Erosion Control: The extensive root systems of wild daffodils can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion, especially on banks and slopes.
- Sustainable Landscaping: As a native plant, wild daffodils are well-suited to sustainable landscaping practices, requiring less water and resources than many non-native species.
Medical Properties- Antitussive: May be used to help suppress coughing. - Mucolytic: May assist in breaking down mucus in the respiratory tract. - Diuretic: Could help promote the production of urine. - Wound healing: Potential application in aiding the healing of minor wounds. Please refer to professional resources for detailed and accurate information on plant medicinal uses.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Narcissus lobularis, commonly known as the wild daffodil, can be used in cut flower arrangements due to its attractive blooms.
- The bulb of the wild daffodil has been historically used as a glue substitute, particularly for bookbinding and attaching feathers to arrows.
- Wild daffodil flowers can be used to create a natural yellow dye for fabrics and textiles.
- The plant's bulbs can be crushed to create a rodent repellent, as some rodents dislike the scent.
- In some cultures, wild daffodil flowers are floated in bowls of water to create decorative indoor water features.
- The flowers of the wild daffodil can also be used as a source for an essential oil used in perfumery and aromatherapy.
- Gardeners sometimes plant wild daffodils to create a 'wild garden' appearance, as they can naturalize and create swathes of yellow in spring.
- The plant can be used in educational settings to teach about plant life cycles and bulb growth in biology classes.
- Wild daffodil bulbs can be used in a "forcing" project to bloom indoors during winter for a touch of spring ahead of season.
- The shape of the wild daffodil has influenced artists and designers and may be used as a motif in decorative arts and crafts.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Narcissus, commonly known as daffodil, is utilized in Feng Shui to attract good fortune, wealth, and prosperity. It is often placed in the wealth corner of a home or business, which is located in the southeast area, to enhance the energy of abundance.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe daffodil is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Self-love: The common name of Narcissus lobularis is Daffodil. Daffodils are associated with Narcissus from Greek mythology, who was known for his beauty and his obsession with his own reflection. This association makes daffodils a symbol of self-love.
- Renewal: As daffodils are among the first flowers to bloom in spring, they symbolize new beginnings and the coming of spring, representing renewal and rebirth.
- Unrequited love: In some traditions, daffodils can represent unrequited love, possibly stemming from the tragic love stories connected to Narcissus and his self-focused love.
- Vanity: Owing to the Narcissus myth once more, daffodils sometimes symbolize vanity and excessive self-involvement.
- Prosperity: In some cultures, daffodils are believed to bring good fortune and prosperity, especially when they are the first to bloom in your garden.
- Respect: Presenting a bunch of daffodils can express deep respect for someone, celebrating their achievements and character.
WaterThe Narcissus lobularis, commonly known as the wild daffodil, should be watered thoroughly whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. This will generally mean watering once a week, but frequency can vary depending on climate conditions and the time of year. The goal is to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season in spring, you might find watering every 4 to 7 days is necessary, using approximately one gallon of water per square foot of soil. In dormant periods, usually after the flowering season, watering can be reduced significantly.
LightThe wild daffodil thrives in full to partial sunlight. The ideal location for this plant is a spot where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily, though it can tolerate some light shade. Too little light will result in weak stems and fewer flowers.
TemperatureWild daffodils prefer a moderate temperature range and are hardy in climates where temperatures stay between 50°F and 70°F during their growing season. They can survive minimum temperatures down to about 20°F but should be protected from severe freezes. The Narcissus lobularis enters dormancy after flowering, during which time it can tolerate higher summer temperatures as long as they are not extreme.
PruningWild daffodils typically require little pruning. After flowering, remove the spent flower heads to encourage bulb strength but leave the foliage until it turns yellow and dies back naturally. This allows the plant to gather energy for the next year's growth. Clean cuts should be made if removing any damaged or diseased foliage, which can be done as needed throughout the growing season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilNarcissus pseudonarcissus, commonly known as wild daffodil, thrives in well-draining soil with a mix of loam, peat, and sand to ensure good drainage and aeration. The ideal pH for this plant is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. Amend the soil with organic matter to enhance fertility.
RepottingWild daffodils typically do not need frequent repotting. They should be repotted every 3-5 years to refresh the soil, though they can also be divided during this time if the clumps become too large.
Humidity & MistingWild daffodils prefer average room humidity and do not require high humidity levels to thrive. They are fairly adaptable to various indoor humidity conditions as long as they are not extremely dry.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and keep in cool temps.
Outdoor
Plant in partial sun, well-draining soil, water moderately.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of Narcissus lobularis, commonly known as the wild daffodil, begins with a dormant bulb which lies underground during the colder months. In early spring, it sends up shoots, followed by leaves and a flower stalk, leading to the blooming phase where the characteristic yellow flowers emerge. After pollination, typically by insects, the flowers produce seeds, which mature and are eventually dispersed into the surrounding environment. The above-ground parts of the plant die back to the ground once the flowering and seeding stages are complete, with the bulb remaining dormant until the next growth cycle. This annual cycle of growth, flowering, seed production, and dormancy continues year after year, with the bulb gradually dividing to form clumps that can lead to the spread of the plant. The life span of an individual bulb can extend over several years, allowing these plants to persist and reproduce in appropriate growing conditions.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
Narcissus lobularis, commonly known as the wild daffodil, is typically propagated through division of its bulbs. The best time to propagate is in late summer to early fall, after the leaves have died back and the plant is dormant. To propagate, carefully dig up the bulbs and gently separate them from the main clump, being sure not to damage the basal plate from which roots grow. Each separated bulb should have at least one growth point or shoot. Replant the bulbs immediately at a depth of about 6 inches (15 centimeters), spaced 3 to 6 inches (7.5 to 15 centimeters) apart, in well-drained soil with good sunlight exposure.
