narcissi

Narcissi is the plural common name for plants in the genus Narcissus, a group of bulbous perennial flowering plants in the Amaryllidaceae family. Most species produce one to several sturdy stems bearing a single upward-facing flower composed of a trumpet-shaped central corona (the cup) and surrounding perianth segments (tepals). Colors range from creamy white to bright yellow, orange, and combinations thereof. The best-known forms are the categories commonly called daffodils, jonquils, and paperwhites.

Narcissus comprises about 50 to 60 species, native to Europe, North Africa, and western Asia, with many cultivars grown worldwide as ornamentals. In horticulture, the term daffodil is often applied to bright yellow cultivars, particularly Narcissus pseudonarcissus, while jonquil refers to fewer-flowered, fragrant forms with narrow leaves (often Narcissus jonquilla). Paperwhite denotes Narcissus papyraceus, valued for its scented, white flowers and forced indoor blooming.

Cultivation: Narcissi are typically grown from bulbs planted in autumn in well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. They require a cold period to bloom and dislike wet soils after leaf fall; after blooming, allowing foliage to photosynthesize helps bulb vitality. They multiply by offsets and can be forced indoors.

Toxicity: All parts contain alkaloids such as lycorine and are poisonous if ingested; handling bare bulbs can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.

Uses and symbolism: Widely cultivated in gardens and borders; symbols of spring in many cultures; the daffodil is the national flower of Wales and appears in various emblems.