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Bulb

Daffodil

Narcissus spp.

DaffodilNarcissusJonquil (some species)Lent Lily

Daffodils are cheerful spring-blooming bulbs known for their trumpet-shaped flowers. They symbolize rebirth, new beginnings, and unrequited love.

Plant Family

Amaryllidaceae

Blooming

Early to late spring (February-May), depending on variety and climate

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A bright yellow daffodil flower with a prominent trumpet
A bright yellow daffodil flower with a prominent trumpet

Symbolism & Meanings

Key Meanings

Rebirth
New beginnings
Hope
Respect
Unrequited love
Creativity
Inspiration
Renewal

Perfect For

Spring celebrations (Easter)Birthdays (March birth flower)Anniversaries (10th wedding anniversary)Get well soonSympathyNew ventures

Color Meanings

Yellow:Happiness, joy, and positive energy
White:Purity and new beginnings

Cultural Significance

The national flower of Wales. In Greek mythology, Narcissus was a handsome youth who fell in love with his own reflection and was transformed into the flower. A single daffodil can signify misfortune, while a bunch brings good fortune.

Botanical Information

Physical Characteristics

Flower Size: 1-6 inches diameter (2.5-15 cm) depending on division/cultivar
Plant Size: 6-24 inches tall (15-60 cm)
Flower Shape: Distinctive trumpet or cup-shaped corona surrounded by a perianth of six petal-like tepals

Natural Habitat

Native to: Europe, North Africa, Western Asia
Habitat: Woodlands, meadows, grasslands, rocky slopes, gardens
Climate: Temperate, Cool temperate (require winter chill for blooming)

Growing Guide

Sunlight

Full sun to partial shade (full sun preferred for best blooms)

Water

Moderate during growth and bloom; prefer drier conditions during summer dormancy

Soil

Well-drained, Fertile, Humus-rich, Slightly acidic to neutral

Expert Growing Tips

1

Plant bulbs in fall, 2-3 times their depth

2

Allow foliage to die back naturally after blooming (do not cut green leaves)

3

Divide overcrowded clumps every few years after foliage dies down

4

Generally deer and rodent resistant due to toxicity

5

Choose varieties with different bloom times for a longer display

Uses & Benefits

Ornamental Uses

  • Spring beds and borders
  • Naturalizing in lawns and woodlands
  • Cut flower arrangements
  • Containers and pots
  • Forcing indoors for early blooms

Traditional Uses

  • Contains toxic alkaloids (lycorine); all parts are poisonous if ingested
  • Galantamine, derived from some Narcissus species, is used to treat Alzheimer's disease
  • Historically used in folk medicine with extreme caution

Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.

Available Colors

Yellow
White
Orange
Pink
Cream
Bicolor (cup and petals different colors)

Quick Facts

Type:bulb
Family:Amaryllidaceae
Native to:Europe
Blooms:Early to late spring (February-May), depending on variety and climate

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