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Narcissus /nɑː(r)ˈsɪsəs/

Common name: Daffodil · Jonquil

Narcissus is a genus of bulbous spring-flowering perennials in the amaryllis family (Amaryllidaceae), native to meadows and woodlands of Europe and North Africa. The flowers are characterized by a central trumpet- or cup-shaped corona surrounded by six tepals. Daffodils naturalize readily and return reliably year after year.

Fun facts

  • Daffodil sap is toxic to other cut flowers — keep them out of mixed bouquets until conditioned.
  • The alkaloids that make daffodils poisonous also make them deer- and rodent-resistant.
  • The genus is named after Narcissus of Greek mythology, who fell in love with his own reflection.
  • The daffodil is the national flower of Wales, worn on St. David's Day.

Care summary

Sun Full sun to partial shade
Water Moderate in spring; keep dry during summer dormancy
Soil Well-drained, moderately fertile soil
Hardiness Zones 3–9
Mature height 15–60 cm (6–24 in) depending on variety
Pet safe Toxic to cats and dogs, especially the bulbs

Common problems

    • Plant bulbs in free-draining soil
    • Avoid wet low-lying planting spots
    • Discard soft or moldy bulbs
    • Let foliage die back naturally
    • Feed with low-nitrogen bulb fertilizer
    • Divide and replant crowded clumps
    • Dig up and destroy infested bulbs
    • Cover beds with mesh after flowering
    • Remove and bin infected plants
    • Avoid replanting bulbs in same spot