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Saturday, April 16, 2011

Daffodils: Symbols of spring and rebirth


Daffodils are popping up everywhere around town these days. Some are all yellow, others are white with yellow middles and still others are yellow with orange middles. Some have long, tubular trumpets, others have short, round trumpets. Some plants are tall and slender, others look like miniature versions. To me, all are beautiful.


Many people wonder what the difference is between a daffodil and a narcissus. In a word... nothing. Daffodil is the common name for the plant, while Narcissus is the Latin/botanical name for the genus. Occasionally, I'll hear someone refer to this plant as a jonquil. But jonquil refers to a specific kind of narcissus and not a correct term for the group in general. True jonquils usually have several, very fragrant flower heads, to one stem. 


Symbolizing rebirth and new beginnings, the daffodil is virtually synonymous with spring.


I think the miniature varieties are so cute, especially when they are planted with the vibrant blue Scilla siberica.



5 comments:

  1. We're getting ready for them in the midwest - can't wait!

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  2. Very pretty. I cleaned up 5 of the garden beds yesterday (and I can barely move today. Man! I'm out of shape.) Anyhoo, I'm seeing tons of the bigger Daffodils ready to open. Perhaps today's rain will encourage them to do so. :))

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  3. I love Narcissus and particularly the jonquil types. Mine are still flowering, I have managed to get a range of varieties which extend the flowering season but this is more by luck than design!!!

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  4. I love daffodils. My favorite ones have orange centers. Or the double petaled ones. All are definitely pretty.

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  5. Aren't daffodils just happy flowers? They always seem to be smiling, sunshine or rain!

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