The Essential Guide To The Daffodil
Botanical Name: Narcissus spp
Common Name: Daffodil
General Knowledge: The Daffodil, known for its bright yellow bloom, is native to the meadows and woods of southern Europe and North Africa. In Australia, daffodils are commonly used to add a splash of colour to gardens and as a symbol of support for cancer foundations during fundraising campaigns. An interesting fact about daffodils is that despite their sunny appearance, all parts of the flower are toxic, which has historically protected them from grazing animals.
Colour Range: Daffodils come in a variety of hues including white, lemon-yellow, and peach. Some also exhibit combinations of white or yellow with orange or a white centre.
Australian Seasonal Availability: Daffodils bloom best in spring in Australia. They start flowering in late winter and continue through spring.
Australian Wedding and Event Season Availability: Given their blooming season, daffodils are ideal for late winter to spring weddings and events in Australia.
Commercially Grown in Australia: Yes, daffodils are cultivated in both home gardens and commercial landscapes in Australia.
Buying Tips: Select daffodils when their buds are tight but display some discernible colour and form.
Design Tips and Advice: Daffodils have a cheerful, bright appearance that can light up any setting. They are often used in bouquets, centrepieces, or as standalone arrangements. Pairing daffodils with other spring blooms like tulips and hyacinths can create a vibrant, colourful display.
Flower Maturity: Purchase daffodils when the petals are still fresh, and the buds are only partially opened to enjoy them for longer.
Expected Vase Life: On average, daffodils last between 4 to 6 days in a vase.
Typical Stem Length: Daffodil stems range from 30 cm to 45 cm in length.
Typical Bunch Size: They are typically sold in bunches of 10 stems.
Ethylene Sensitivity: Daffodils are notably sensitive to ethylene.
Temperature Requirements: Store daffodils at a cool temperature, ideally between 2–4 °C.
How to Avoid Potential Problems: Daffodil stems secrete a sap harmful to other flowers. To counter this, keep them separately immersed in water for around 6 hours before mixing with other flowers. If you opt to recut the stems without using floral foam, you'll need to wait another 6 hours. However, a flower food solution with a robust germicide might neutralize the harmful effects of the sap. Store daffodils upright and ensure uniform lighting due to their geotropic nature — they bend in response to gravity. Some individuals might find the fragrance of Narcissus overpowering, so be mindful when using them in closed spaces or around sensitive individuals.
Cooling and Cool Rooms: If needed, store daffodils in a cool room to slow down their opening process.
Hydration and Vase Solutions: Keep daffodils well-hydrated by placing them in fresh, clean water.
Care of Ethylene Sensitive Products: Store daffodils away from fruits and vegetables that emit ethylene gas.