Daffodils (Narcissus)

Daffodils (Narcissus)

Call it narcissus or daffodil, this easy to grow, popular flowering plant is a sight to see. Narcissus bursting in different colours from white to pink can lend an effortless charm to any arrangement. Let’s find out more about narcissus below.

About Narcissus

Narcissus is a perennial spring-flowering plant characterised by its six petal-like tepals with a trumpet or cup-shaped corona. The blooms are often yellow and white, but some are pink and orange, depending on the varieties. Moreover, the flowers can show off either contrasting coloured or uniform corona and tepals.

Scientific Name

Narcissus is the name of the genus of the flowering plant, commonly known as daffodils. Its flowers, however, have the scientific name Narcissus pseudonarcissus. The genus belongs to the Amaryllidaceae or amaryllis family. “Narcissus” is derived from the Greek word “narke,” which means numbness. The flowers are named as such due to the intoxicating scent of some of its species. Besides daffodils, the flower is also called jonquil. But it is often just called narcissus, describing some or all the members of the genus.

History and Origin

Narcissus is native to the Mediterranean region, particularly China and Central Asia. Early colonists moved the most common species of narcissus growing in North America from Europe. The narcissus bulb or the daffodil can actually outlive humans provided that this is grown under excellent conditions and cultivated correctly. Daffodils can bloom from 6 weeks to 6 months, depending on the area’s climate where it was planted. Daffodils are commonly seen in many parts of the US.

Symbolism and Meaning

Many different cultures worldwide celebrate narcissus as a symbol of prosperity, joy, hope, and renewal. Since narcissus is a spring flower, it also represents rebirth and new beginnings. Narcissus is a life-affirming and positive symbol that produces blooms every year.

How to Take Care of Narcissus Plant

Just like other plants, narcissus requires regular and proper care. You need to ensure that the soil is consistently moist and not soggy. You also need to water this plant regularly. When the bulbs are actively growing in spring, it would be best to give them about an inch of water per week.