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Description
Narcissus Barnum, also known as Barnum daffodil, is a perennial bulb plant that belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family. This plant is native to the Mediterranean region and is widely cultivated for its ornamental value. Narcissus Barnum is characterized by its trumpet-shaped blooms that are surrounded by six pointed petals. The blooms are usually yellow with a white or creamy center and appear in late winter or early spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus | Narcissus |
Appearance
Narcissus Barnum has strap-like leaves that are green in color and grow up to 30 cm long. The blooms are trumpet-shaped and measure about 10 cm in diameter. They have six pointed petals that are usually yellow with a white or creamy center. The plant grows up to 40 cm in height and produces one or more blooms per stem. Narcissus Barnum is a clump-forming plant that multiplies quickly and can form large colonies over time.
Care Guide
Narcissus Barnum is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you care for your Barnum daffodil:
- Water: Narcissus Barnum prefers well-drained soil that is evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant regularly during the growing season and reduce watering during the dormant period.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring before the plant starts to bloom. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to soft growth and poor blooms.
- Soil: Narcissus Barnum prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting.
- Sunlight: Narcissus Barnum prefers full sun to partial shade. Plant the bulbs in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: Narcissus Barnum is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Narcissus Barnum is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues to watch out for:
- Narcissus bulb fly: This pest can damage the bulbs and cause them to rot. Use insecticidal soap or a systemic insecticide to control the fly.
- Botrytis blight: This fungal disease can cause the stems and leaves to rot. Remove infected plant parts and apply a fungicide to prevent further spread.
- Yellow stripe virus: This viral disease can cause yellow streaks on the leaves and stunted growth. There is no cure for the virus, so infected plants should be removed and destroyed.
Habitat
Narcissus Barnum is native to the Mediterranean region and can be found growing in meadows, woodlands, and rocky slopes. The plant prefers well-drained soil and is adapted to hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. Narcissus Barnum is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant and can be found in gardens, parks, and public spaces around the world.
Question and Answer
- Q: When is the best time to plant Narcissus Barnum bulbs?
- A: The best time to plant Narcissus Barnum bulbs is in the fall, about 4 to 6 weeks before the first frost. This allows the bulbs to establish roots before the winter dormancy period.
- Q: Can Narcissus Barnum bulbs be forced to bloom indoors?
- A: Yes, Narcissus Barnum bulbs can be forced to bloom indoors. Plant the bulbs in a pot with well-drained soil and place them in a cool, dark location for about 12 weeks. Then, move the pot to a bright, sunny location and water regularly to encourage growth and blooming.
- Q: How long do Narcissus Barnum blooms last?
- A: Narcissus Barnum blooms typically last for about 2 to 3 weeks, depending on the weather conditions.
- Q: Can Narcissus Barnum bulbs be left in the ground over the winter?
- A: Yes, Narcissus Barnum bulbs can be left in the ground over the winter. However, it is important to ensure that the soil is well-drained and not waterlogged during the dormant period to prevent the bulbs from rotting.
Related Plants
- Narcissus ‘Tête-à-Tête’
- Narcissus ‘Jack Snipe’
- Narcissus ‘February Gold’
- Narcissus ‘Ice Follies’
- Narcissus ‘Mount Hood’
References
- “Narcissus Barnum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a715. Accessed 27 Aug. 2021.
- “Narcissus.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/search-results?form-mode=false&query=Narcissus. Accessed 27 Aug. 2021.
- “Growing Narcissus.” National Gardening Association, garden.org/plants/group/narcissus/983. Accessed 27 Aug. 2021.
