Bicolor Daffodil
narcissus bicolor
Also known as: ["Bicolor Jonquil","Two-colored Daffodil"]
Overview
A perennial bulbous plant known for its distinctive bicolor flowers, typically yellow and white, belonging to the Amaryllidaceae family.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","seasonal color change"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus: | Narcissus |
| Botanical Name: | Narcissus bicolor |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny spot, or container with adequate drainage
- 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: Loamy, well-draining soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; annually in late spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light (removal of flower stalks only).
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust to dappled light in hotter climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; ensure adequate ventilation in indoor settings.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate pots for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid placing near heat sources.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in dormant period
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogging; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil 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 or 10–18°C) during dormancy; moderate (60–70°F or 15–21°C) during active growth.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from extreme fluctuations.
Fertilizing
monthly during active growth (spring and fall), none in dormant period
Fertilize just before growth begins; water after applying fertilizer; use slow-release options for convenience.
Propagation
Methods
Division of bulbs; separate offsets after foliage dies back in late spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Dig up mature bulbs.
- Separate offsets.
- Replant at the same depth.
- Water lightly.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer, after flowering and when foliage begins to yellow.
Environment
Partial shade, moderate humidity, and well-drained soil.
Medium
Well-draining bulb mix or sandy loam with added perlite.
Hormone
Not required for bulb division.
Timeline
Offsets may take 1–3 years to mature and flower after separation.
Tools Needed
Garden fork, sharp knife, gloves.
Quick Tips
Replant offsets immediately to prevent drying; ensure each offset has roots; space new bulbs appropriately.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut flower stalks at the base; do not cut foliage until it turns yellow and withers.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower stalks to redirect energy to bulb development; allow foliage to die back naturally.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Wait until flowers fade; cut cleanly; avoid damaging leaves; clean tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late summer to early fall, after dormancy ends and before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Use a pot 2–3 inches wider than the bulb cluster; ensure drainage holes.
Method
Remove bulbs carefully; trim dead roots; replant in fresh, well-draining soil at the same depth.
Suggestions
Repot only when bulbs become crowded or every 3–4 years to refresh soil.
Checklist
Check for crowded roots; use fresh soil; ensure proper depth; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; allow excess water to drain away completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during dormancy (late spring to early fall); increase frequency in active growth (fall to spring) to keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand or perlite for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or premature bulb sprouting in winter; wilting or leaf scorch in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can induce dormancy but prolonged frost may damage bulbs or cause rot if soil is too wet.
Solution: Mulch heavily around bulbs in winter; move potted plants to a sheltered location; ensure soil is not waterlogged.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause foliage to scorch, reduce flowering, or force bulbs into early dormancy.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun hours; increase watering frequency; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; follow dilution instructions; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with bulb.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced bulb fertilizer (10-10-10) in fall and early spring; dilute to half-strength; avoid fertilizing during dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the toxic alkaloids in Narcissus bicolor, which can cause severe gastrointestinal, neurological, and cardiac effects. The bulbs pose the greatest risk due to their high alkaloid content.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Narcissus bicolor can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset, neurological disturbances, and cardiac issues due to the presence of toxic alkaloids. The bulbs are the most dangerous part of the plant.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicNarcissus bicolor 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 bicolor toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How should I care for Narcissus bicolor?
A: Plant bulbs in well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade; water moderately during growth and allow bulbs to dry out in summer.
Q: Does Narcissus bicolor attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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