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Amaryllidaceae HERB OUTDOOR Placement Primary: Ornamental Aromatic

Poet's Daffodil

Narcissus poeticus

Identified By Marcs

The Poet's Daffodil, scientifically known as Narcissus poeticus, is a classic bulbous perennial plant renowned for its stunning, highly fragrant flowers. It features solitary blooms characterized by pure white petals and a distinctively short, yellow central cup edged with a vibrant ring of bright red or orange. Native to Central and Southern Europe, this charming species has been cultivated for centuries and holds a prominent place in ancient mythology and folklore. Typically blooming in mid to late spring, it thrives in temperate climates and is exceptionally well-suited for naturalizing in woodland gardens, meadows, and perennial borders. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soils and positions receiving full sun to partial shade.

Also known as: Pheasant's Eye Poet's Narcissus Old Pheasant's Eye

Toxicity & Safety

Is Poet's Daffodil toxic to pets?

Yes, toxic to pets.

The Poet's Daffodil is toxic to pets, including cats and dogs. The entire plant, especially the bulb, contains toxic alkaloids such as lycorine and other calcium oxalate crystals. Ingestion can lead to severe clinical signs including excessive drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, cardiac arrhythmias, and low blood pressure. Immediate veterinary attention is strongly recommended if any pet is suspected of consuming parts of this plant.

Is Poet's Daffodil toxic to humans?

Yes, toxic to humans.

Narcissus poeticus is toxic to humans if ingested. The bulbs are particularly poisonous, often mistaken for onions, but leaves and flowers also contain harmful compounds. Ingestion causes acute gastrointestinal distress, severe vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, tremors, and potential neurological symptoms. Contact with the sap can also cause skin irritation and contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals. Always wear gloves when handling the bulbs and keep them away from children.

Is Poet's Daffodil safe during pregnancy?

Caution advised during pregnancy.

Pregnant women should handle the Poet's Daffodil with extreme caution and avoid any contact with internal consumption or handling of damaged bulb tissues. The toxic alkaloids present in the plant can cause severe systemic poisoning, which poses significant risks to maternal health and can potentially lead to complications during pregnancy. Due to the lack of safe dosage levels and high toxicity profiles, medicinal use is entirely contraindicated.

Growth & Dimensions

Height 30 - 45 cm
Width 15 - 25 cm
Growth Rate Moderate
Care Level Easy
Lifespan Perennial

Ideal Environment

Temperature -20°C - 25°C
Sunlight Hours 6 - 10 hrs/day
Sun Exposure Full sun
Soil pH 6 - 7.5
Watering Interval 7 - 14 days
Humidity 40.00% - 70.00%
USDA Zone 3 - 9

Temperate Europe and North America

Climate: Thrives in temperate climates with cool winters and moderate, moist springs that encourage robust foliage and flower development.

Soils: Loam Sandy Loam Chalk
Annual Rainfall: 600 - 1200 mm

Native Regions

Southern Europe
Central Europe

How to Care for Poet's Daffodil

How should I handle watering guidelines?

Water the Poet's Daffodil regularly during its active growing and flowering season in spring to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Once the blooming period finishes and the foliage begins to die back naturally, drastically reduce watering. During the summer dormancy period, the bulbs prefer relatively dry conditions to prevent rotting.

How to Propagate Poet's Daffodil

How to propagate Poet's Daffodil by division?

Propagate Poet's Daffodil primarily by lifting and dividing the underground bulbs after the foliage has completely died back in late summer. Carefully separate the offset bulblets from the main mother bulb, ensuring each division retains a portion of the root system. Replant the offsets immediately at the same depth they were growing previously, spacing them appropriately to allow for future expansion and robust spring flowering in subsequent seasons.

Common Diseases & Pests of Poet's Daffodil

What is Narcissus Bulb Fly and how is it treated?

Pest
Symptoms:

Larvae burrow into the base of the bulb, causing stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and eventual collapse of the plant shoot. The bulb becomes soft and hollowed out internally.

Treatment:

Remove and destroy heavily infested bulbs immediately. Treat surrounding soil with approved insecticides if infestations are recurrent or severe.

Prevention:

Inspect all purchased bulbs carefully before planting. Cover plants with fine mesh netting during the adult fly egg-laying season to prevent them from laying eggs near the stems.

Properties & Benefits of Poet's Daffodil

Aromatic Plant

Key Nutrients / Compounds

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