The month of March has arrived that ushers the beginning of spring in Singapore. March’s birth flower is the daffodil. It represents new beginnings and unparalleled love that makes the perfect expression of deep love. The Latin name for daffodil is Narcissus, which is named after a Greek mythological character.
Daffodils are native to northern Europe and are grown in temperate climates around the world.
Know some interesting facts about daffodils below:
- Daffodil could flower almost anywhere from six weeks to six months depending upon the growing conditions
- There are at least 25 different daffodil species and over 13,000 different hybrids
- It is believed that if a daffodil is forced to bloom for the Chinese New Year, it will bring good luck to all the people in the family
- The daffodil is the national flower of Wales. People in Wales believe that if you spot the first daffodil of the season, your next year will be filled with wealth
- The mythical word Narcissus derived from classical Greek mythology where a beautiful youth named ‘Narcissus’ became fascinated with his own reflection and only showed disdain and contempt to anyone who fell in love with him. As a punishment for his vanity, the gods turned him into this flower
- In England, people mention daffodils as Lent Lilies
- The leaves and bulb of this flower contain a toxic alkaloid called lycorine that keeps rabbits, dear, and squirrels away. But it is toxic to dogs
- Scientists have identified a natural compound in daffodil bulbs called narciclasine that can be beneficial in treating diseases like brain cancer
- In Ancient Rome, daffodils were considered precious for their sap, which was thought to contain healing properties
- Daffodil sap is toxic to other flowers. So florists tend to soak the stems for 24 hours before putting them with other flowers
- Offering a single daffodil means bad luck. That’s why it is suggested to always offer daffodils in a bunch
- In the Victorian era, daffodils were considered the symbol of chivalry that makes them a perfect flower for a gentleman to offer a lady. That is also the reason why they are regarded as the official 10th wedding anniversary flower
- Poultry keepers believe that daffodils prevent hens from laying eggs. Therefore, they avoid planting these flowers on their farms
- Daffodils have been used in history for medicinal purposes. Greeks used them as disinfectants. During Victorian times, they were used for treating sores and warts.
