Narcissus species: Narcissus, daffodil

Family

Amaryllidaceae

Common Names

Daffodil, narcissus, jonquil, paperwhite.

Plant Description

The genus Narcissus consists of approximately 60 species that originate from Europe, North Africa, and western Asia. A vast number of cultivars have been developed and are grouped horticulturally into 12 divisions based upon the size and shape of the trumpet and the petals. Plants develop from bulbs that vary considerably in size and shape, but are generally ovoid with brown papery membranes. The leaves are basal direct or spreading, with narrow blades. Flowers are either single or in clusters of up to 20 flowers and flowers are generally large and showy, fragrant or not fragrant, and ranging in color from white to yellow or orange (Fig. 278, Fig. 279, Fig. 280 and Fig. 281).

Figure 278. Narcissus spp. (Paperwhite).

Figure 279. Narcissus - Daffodil.

Figure 280. Narcissus "Kilworth’"

Figure 281. Narcissus bulbs.

Toxic Principle and Mechanism of Action

At least 15 phenanthridine alkaloids including lycorine, have been identified in the leaves, stems, and bulbs of Narcissus [1]. The concentrations of the alkaloids are highest in the outer layers of the bulbs. The total alkaloid concentration in the leaves and parts of the bulbs is reported as 0.5%. Phenanthridine alkaloids have been isolated from other genera of the Amaryllis family, including species of Amaryllis, Clivia, Cooperia, Eucharis, Galanthus, Hippeastrum, Haemanthus, Hymenocallis, Leucojum, Nerine, Sprekelia, and Zephranthes.

The bulbs also contain calcium oxalate raphides that are largely responsible for the contact irritant dermatitis, that is common in people who handle the bulbs frequently. The calcium oxalate crystals penetrate the skin, allowing allergenic substances such as the alkaloids masonin and homolycorin to enter and stimulate an allergic response [2,3].

The alkaloids have emetic, hypotensive, and respiratory depressant effects, and cause excessive salivation, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and hypotension. Calcium oxalate raphides may also contribute to the digestive symptoms especially if the bulbs or plants are chewed. There are other compounds in Narcissua species that have been shown to have antiviral, antimitotic, and antitumor properties.

Risk Assessment

Being one of the most common garden and potted houseplants, Narcissus species are readily accessible to household pets. Usually purchased as a leafless bulb, and if not planted immediately, the bulb can be something puppies like to chew on. Cats may eat the dried stems and leaves and become intoxicated [4]. Most reported cases of daffodil (Narcissus spp.) poisoning occur in people who eat the bulbs [3,5].

Clinical Signs

Vomiting, excessive salivation, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and difficulty in breathing, are associated with the phenanthridine alkaloids present in the lily family. If large quantities of the leaves, stems, and bulb are consumed, depression, ataxia, seizures, bradycardia, and hypotension may develop. Poisoning is rarely fatal, and can generally be treated symptomatically.