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Description
Narcissus April Tears, also known as Narcissus Jonquilla, is a species of flowering plant in the Amaryllidaceae family. It is a small, fragrant, early-blooming perennial that produces clusters of bright yellow flowers with a trumpet-shaped corona and narrow petals. This plant is native to the Mediterranean region and is commonly grown for its ornamental value. Its botanical name is derived from the Greek myth of Narcissus, who fell in love with his own reflection and turned into a flower.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus | Narcissus |
Appearance
Narcissus April Tears grows up to 30 cm tall and has long, narrow leaves that are dark green in color. Its flowers are bright yellow with a trumpet-shaped corona and six narrow petals. They bloom in early spring and have a sweet, delicate fragrance that attracts bees and other pollinators. This plant is well-suited for borders, rock gardens, or naturalizing in lawns, and is a popular choice for cut flowers.
Care Guide
Narcissus April Tears is a low-maintenance plant that requires little care, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure its optimal growth and health:
- Water: Narcissus April Tears prefers well-drained soil and should be watered regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring before the plant blooms to encourage healthy growth and flowering.
- Soil: Narcissus April Tears grows best in well-drained, slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade and should be planted in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: Narcissus April Tears is hardy in USDA zones 4-9 and can tolerate temperatures as low as -30°C.
Common Pests & Diseases
Narcissus April Tears is generally resistant to most pests and diseases, but there are a few issues to watch for:
- Narcissus Bulb Fly: This pest can damage bulbs and cause plant death. Use insecticides or nematodes to control infestations.
- Fusarium Basal Rot: This fungal disease can cause yellowing and wilting of leaves, as well as bulb decay. Remove and destroy infected plants, and avoid planting in infected soil.
- Narcissus Yellow Stripe Virus: This virus can cause yellow streaks on leaves and stunted growth. Infected plants should be removed and destroyed to prevent spread.
Habitat
Narcissus April Tears is native to the Mediterranean region, where it grows in rocky or grassy areas, on hillsides, and in woodlands. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate dry conditions, making it a popular choice for xeriscaping.
Question and Answer
Q: When should I plant Narcissus April Tears?
A: Plant bulbs in the fall, 6-8 weeks before the first frost, to allow roots to establish before winter.
Q: How often should I fertilize Narcissus April Tears?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring before the plant blooms, and again after flowering if desired.
Q: Can Narcissus April Tears be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Narcissus April Tears can be grown in containers, but make sure the container has good drainage and use a well-draining potting mix.
Q: Can Narcissus April Tears be forced to bloom indoors?
A: Yes, Narcissus April Tears bulbs can be forced to bloom indoors in winter by chilling them in a refrigerator for 12-14 weeks before planting.
Related Plants
- Narcissus Tête-à-Tête
- Narcissus Thalia
- Narcissus Cheerfulness
- Narcissus Geranium
References
- “Narcissus jonquilla – Plant Finder.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279842.
- “Narcissus April Tears.” Gardenia, www.gardenia.net/plant/narcissus-april-tears.
- “Narcissus (plant).” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 8 Jan. 2022, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Narcissus_(plant).
