daffodils

Daffodils are flowering plants in the genus Narcissus, in the Amaryllidaceae family. Native to Europe, North Africa, and western Asia, they have been cultivated for centuries as ornamental plants and have naturalized in many temperate regions.

The best-known form features a central cup or corona surrounded by six petal-like tepals. Colors range from bright yellow to white, often with contrasting centers; many cultivars show bi-color patterns or double flowers. Leaves are long and strap-shaped, and bulbs grow underground, multiplying to form clumps over time.

Daffodils are spring-flowering perennials. They require a season of cold weather to bloom well and prefer well-drained soil in sun to light shade. Plant bulbs in fall at a depth of about two to three times their height, with spacing of roughly 7–15 cm. After flowering, allow the foliage to die back naturally so the plant replenishes its nutrients; avoid cutting leaves back too soon. They can naturalize and spread in favorable climates and may be divided every few years to maintain vigor.

Many cultivars exist, and horticultural organizations classify Narcissus into several groups, including trumpet, large-cupped, small-cupped, double, jonquilla, tazetta, cyclamineus, and poeticus types. They are widely grown in borders, rock gardens, and lawns, and can be forced for indoor bloom.

They contain toxic alkaloids, such as lycorine, and are poisonous if ingested by people or animals; handling bulbs may irritate the skin, so gloves are prudent.

The flower is widely used in cultural celebrations and is the national flower of Wales in the United Kingdom.