Narcissus ‘Ferris Wheel’ (Large Cupped Daffodil)

Daffodil ‘Ferris Wheel’ is an eye-catching large-cupped variety in the daffodil family prized for its strikingly bold blooms and captivating fragrance. Its oversized, ruffled cups and unique color combination make it a standout addition to any spring garden. Whether used for garden displays or cut flower arrangements, this daffodil variety adds elegance and vibrancy to the landscape.

Narcissus ‘Ferris Wheel’ – Large Cupped Daffodil: An In-depth Look

Daffodil ‘Ferris Wheel’ is celebrated for its large, striking blooms, which feature a bright orange, ruffled cup that is heavily ribbed and frilled at the edges. The cup stands out against a backdrop of partially overlapping, golden-yellow petals, often with a slight greenish tinge near the base, adding depth to the overall color palette. The flowers measure up to 4.5 inches (11 cm) in diameter, making them among the largest in the large-cupped daffodil category. In addition to its stunning visual appeal, ‘Ferris Wheel’ is lightly fragrant, with a pleasant, sweet scent that enhances its charm in garden beds and bouquets. This daffodil is well-known for its sturdy stems, which hold the substantial blooms aloft, even in challenging weather conditions.

Native:  Daffodil ‘Ferris Wheel’ is a hybrid cultivar derived from the broader Narcissus genus, native to parts of Southern Europe and North Africa. Daffodils belong to the amaryllis family, Amaryllidaceae, which also includes snowdrops and amaryllis.

Plant Type and Habit:  This is a perennial bulb with an upright, sturdy stem that supports its large blooms. As a perennial, it returns year after year, gradually multiplying to form a more substantial display over time.

Size: Typically grows 18-20 inches (45-50 cm) tall and about 3-6 inches (7-15 cm) wide, forming neat clumps that gradually expand as the bulbs naturalize.

Flowers: The flowers are large and outward-facing, opening with ivory petals and a pale lemon trumpet edged in apricot pink. As they mature, the petals turn pure white, while the trumpet transitions to buff-cream with a soft apricot-pink edge.

Bloom Time: This daffodil blooms in mid-spring. Its flowers last for several weeks, providing a long-lasting display of color in the garden.

Foliage: The foliage is typical of daffodils, with long, narrow, strap-like leaves that are green and glossy.

Hardiness: This daffodil is a hardy perennial suitable for USDA zones 3-9. It thrives in cooler climates, where it can undergo a period of cold dormancy, which is essential for healthy blooming.

Uses:  It is perfect for borders, edging, and containers, adding height and elegance. Its large, fragrant blooms are ideal for cut flowers, and it naturalizes well, slowly forming larger clumps, enhancing gardens with minimal effort.

Toxicity: Daffodils are toxic to pets (including cats and dogs) and humans if ingested. Handling them may cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals due to calcium oxalate crystals in the plant’s sap.

Deer and Rabbits: Deer, rabbits, and other common garden pests tend to avoid daffodils due to their toxic properties.

Growing and Caring for Daffodil Flowers

Planting: Plant daffodil bulbs in the fall, 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) deep, and space them 3-6 inches (7-15 cm) apart in well-draining soil. Ensure the pointed end faces up and water thoroughly after planting. Learn how to grow daffodils like a pro and enjoy vibrant blooms year after year!

Light: Daffodils thrive in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. At least 6 hours of sunlight daily ensures healthy blooms.

Soil: Plant in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0). Avoid waterlogged areas to prevent bulb rot.

Watering: Water thoroughly after planting and maintain consistent moisture during the growing season. Reduce watering after blooming to allow the bulbs to dry out during dormancy.

Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) when new growth appears in early spring. Avoid heavy feeding as it can lead to weak plants.

Pruning and Maintenance: Remove spent flower heads after blooming to prevent seed production, which diverts energy from the bulbs (unless you want your bulbs to naturalize). Allow the foliage to die back naturally after blooming. Do not cut it too early, as this nourishes the bulbs for the following year.

Propagation:  Propagate by removing offsets as the leaves fade in the summer.

Pests and Diseases: Daffodils are generally pest and disease resistant, but watch out for bulb rot in poorly drained soils.Slugs and snails may feed on shoots and leaves. They may be susceptible to the narcissus bulb fly, which lays its eggs on the bulbs. The larvae eat the inside of the bulbs, weakening or killing the plant.