Narcissus or more commonly known as the Daffodil has always symbolized rebirth and new beginnings. Daffodils are associated with the coming of spring, as it’s usually one of the first perennials to bloom after the winter frosts. Growing in hues of white and orange, they will brighten up your garden with beautiful yellow hues.
This flower, named after Narcissus, son of the river guard from Greek Mythology. Narcissus, well known to be as beautiful as he was arrogant. The Greek God Nemesis noticed this arrogance and lured him to a pool where he fell in love with his reflection.
While staring at his reflection in the pool, Nymphs transformed him into the Narcissus Flower as revenge for how he had treated them. Other theories are that he drown trying to capture his reflection, and the Narcissus Flower took his name. A daffodil’s nodding head in a light breeze almost appears like Narcissus bending over to gaze at his reflection.
Daffodils, first introduced into gardens circa 300 BCE, were described by the Greek Botanist Theophrastus in Enquiry into Plants. Eventually, they were brought into Britain by the Romans, who believed the Daffodil sap had healing power. Daffodils ended up becoming the expected gift for ten-year wedding anniversaries. Finally, ending up as the flower of choice for the American Cancer Societies Hope for a Cure. Not to mention the birth flower for March.
I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud
I wandered lonely as a cloud.
That floats on high o’er vales and hills,
When all at once I saw a crowd,
A host of golden daffodils;
Besides the lake, beneath the trees,
Fluttering and dancing in the breeze.
William Wordsworth
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