Daffodil

Daffodils are members of the genus Narcissus, spring-flowering bulbs in the amaryllis family. "Daffodil," "narcissus," and "jonquil" all refer to plants in this genus, with jonquil strictly meaning certain scented, rush-leaved types.

Botany. The flower has an unmistakable structure: a ring of petals (the perianth) surrounding a central cup or trumpet (the corona), typically in yellow, white, or a combination. They grow from bulbs that store energy over winter and burst into growth in early spring. All parts of the plant contain lycorine and other alkaloids, which makes them toxic if eaten and is why the bulbs are generally left alone by grazing animals.

Care basics. Plant the bulbs in autumn, several times their own depth, in well-drained soil and full or partial sun. After flowering, let the foliage die back naturally rather than cutting it early — the leaves recharge the bulb for next year. Daffodils naturalise well and return reliably, multiplying over time.

Meaning and tradition. As one of the first flowers of spring, the daffodil traditionally symbolises renewal, rebirth, hope, and new beginnings, and a single bloom is sometimes read as a wish for joy. In Wales it is a national emblem associated with St David's Day. These meanings are cultural traditions attached to the flower's early, reliable return each year.

Good to know. Daffodil sap contains crystals that can irritate skin and, importantly, can shorten the vase life of other flowers, so it is best to condition cut daffodils on their own for several hours before mixing them into an arrangement. The bulbs are also occasionally mistaken for onions, which is dangerous given their toxicity, so store them clearly labelled and away from food.

As March's birth flower, the daffodil is both an easy, long-lived garden bulb and a widely recognised emblem of fresh starts.