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Description
Narcissus Poeticus Subsp. Poeticus, also known as the poet’s narcissus or Pheasant’s Eye, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family. It is native to the Mediterranean region and has a rich history in Greek mythology. The plant produces a single white flower that has a distinctive red rim around the center. The flowers are fragrant and bloom in late spring, typically from May to June.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus | Narcissus |
Appearance
The Narcissus Poeticus Subsp. Poeticus plant grows up to 30 cm tall and has long, narrow leaves that are about 25 cm long and 1 cm wide. The flowers are white with a yellow center and a distinctive red rim around the center. The petals are delicate and have a ruffled appearance. The plant produces one flower per stem and the bloom time is typically in late spring.
Care Guide
Narcissus Poeticus Subsp. Poeticus is a relatively low maintenance plant. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, but avoid overwatering as this can cause the bulbs to rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the fall or early spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The Narcissus Poeticus Subsp. Poeticus plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Narcissus Poeticus Subsp. Poeticus plant is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to bulb rot if overwatered or planted in soil that does not drain well. The plant may also be affected by narcissus bulb fly, which can damage the bulbs. To protect your plant from this pest, avoid planting the bulbs in the same location year after year and consider using a bulb dip before planting.
Habitat
The Narcissus Poeticus Subsp. Poeticus plant is native to the Mediterranean region, including southern France, Italy, Greece, and Turkey. It grows in a variety of habitats, including meadows, woodlands, and rocky hillsides. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Narcissus Poeticus Subsp. Poeticus plant toxic?
A: Yes, all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested, particularly the bulbs. Keep the plant away from children and pets.
Q: Can I grow Narcissus Poeticus Subsp. Poeticus indoors?
A: Yes, you can grow this plant indoors in a container. Place the container in a sunny window and water it regularly.
Q: How do I propagate Narcissus Poeticus Subsp. Poeticus?
A: The plant can be propagated by dividing the bulbs in the fall after the foliage has died back. Plant the bulbs immediately after dividing them.
Q: How long do the flowers of Narcissus Poeticus Subsp. Poeticus last?
A: The flowers typically last for 2-3 weeks.
Related Plants
- Narcissus Tazetta
- Narcissus Jonquilla
- Narcissus Pseudonarcissus
References
- “Narcissus poeticus subsp. poeticus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281803. Accessed 8 Sept. 2021.
- “Narcissus poeticus subsp. poeticus.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/3736/narcissus-poeticus-subsp-poeticus/details. Accessed 8 Sept. 2021.
- “Pheasant’s eye.” The Flower Expert, www.theflowerexpert.com/content/mostpopularflowers/morepopularflowers/pheasants-eye. Accessed 8 Sept. 2021.
