Late Daffodil
narcissus serotinus
Also known as: ["Late Daffodil","Autumn Daffodil"]
Overview
A species of daffodil native to the Mediterranean region, known for its late-blooming flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus: | Narcissus |
| Botanical Name: | Narcissus serotinus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings, rock gardens, or containers in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent bulb rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering; remove dead foliage as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning (removal of spent flowers and dead leaves).
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure adequate light for bulb development.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate pots for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; monitor for sunburn signs.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in dormancy
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; water deeply to encourage root growth; avoid waterlogging during dormancy.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; test soil pH annually.
Temperature
Cool temperatures (50–65°F/10–18°C) during dormancy; moderate (60–70°F/15–21°C) during active growth.
Protect from frost; avoid placing near heat sources; maintain consistent temperatures during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing when leaves yellow naturally.
Propagation
Methods
Division of bulbs; seed propagation is possible but slower.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate offsets from parent bulb.
- Plant at twice their depth.
- Water sparingly until established.
Best Time: After flowering (late spring) or during dormancy (late summer).
Environment
Warm (65–70°F/18–21°C), humid, and shaded conditions for seeds; bulbs prefer cool storage.
Medium
Well-draining bulb mix (e.g., peat, perlite, sand).
Hormone
Not required for bulb division; optional for seeds.
Timeline
Bulbs may flower in 1–2 years; seeds take 3–5 years to bloom.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, bulb separator, small pots.
Quick Tips
Replant bulbs immediately after division; label new plants for tracking; provide consistent moisture for seeds.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip flower stalks at the base; cut leaves only after they turn yellow and dry.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage bulb storage; trim yellowing leaves after dormancy.
Tools
Sharp scissors, bypass pruners.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune after flowering; avoid cutting green leaves prematurely.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late summer or early fall (dormancy period).
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove old soil; inspect roots for rot; plant bulbs at twice their depth in fresh, well-draining mix.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when bulbs become crowded; necessary to maintain vigor.
Checklist
Use fresh soil; ensure good drainage; plant bulbs at correct depth.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure proper drainage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting foliage; ensure excess water drains away to prevent rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during dormancy (late spring to summer); increase frequency in fall as growth resumes; maintain consistent moisture during active growth (late fall to early spring).
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress); stunted growth (heat stress); premature bulb splitting.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can halt growth and damage flower buds; prolonged cold may cause root rot.
Solution: Provide winter protection (mulch); move potted plants indoors; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, reduced flowering, and premature dormancy.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase air circulation; water deeply but infrequently.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use correct dilution; fertilize during active growth; avoid dormant period.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer; apply monthly during active growth (fall to early spring); avoid fertilizing during dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the toxic alkaloids in Narcissus serotinus. Ingestion can result in severe gastrointestinal, neurological, and cardiovascular toxicity, potentially leading to fatal outcomes.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Narcissus serotinus can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset, neurological disturbances, and potentially fatal cardiac or respiratory effects due to the presence of toxic alkaloids.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicNarcissus serotinus contains toxic alkaloids, primarily narcissine and lycorine, which can cause gastrointestinal distress, neurological effects, and cardiovascular issues upon ingestion. The bulbs are particularly toxic due to higher concentrations of these compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Narcissus serotinus toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: When does Narcissus serotinus bloom?
A: It blooms in late autumn or early winter.
Q: How easy is it to care for Narcissus serotinus?
A: It is relatively easy to care for, requiring low maintenance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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