Narcissus: The Birth Flower for December

Every month we are asking if you know about your birth flower. And this month we're talking about the Narcissus!

The idea that birth flowers, such as the narcissus, have meanings was introduced in the early 18th century by members of the literary community. So each month was assigned a flower. And it was thought that the characteristics of those would be inherited by those born in that month.

The birth flower for December

A5 framed birth flower hand drawn print of the December birth flower - the narcissus.

The narcissus is a group of flowers that includes the daffodil. However, narcissus in a floristry sense, refers to the more delicate and dainty cousin to the bold and bright common daff we all recognise.

Noticeable for its paler, finer petals, the narcissus is smaller and can grow either as a single stem, or with multiple heads. They have a beautiful fragrance and look fabulous in a large bunch.

Did you know..?

The UK is one of the most prolific growers of narcissi? One of the best places to buy our homegrown blooms is from the Isle of Scilly. And Scilly Flowers grow their crop of scented narcissi throughout the winter to ship them nationwide. They are seriously good value, and excellent quality. And they make a super special alternative to other florist bouquets. Not to mention you can buy them in such large bunches (they sell 100 stems for only £32!), so they make a huge impact in a vase.

Narcissus Meaning and Symbolism

Giving the gift of narcissus to someone means that you think they're sweet! This flower carries positive meanings in every country. It is a symbol of hope, joy, and new beginnings.

But when it comes to what they represent as a birth flower, their symbolism is:

A miniature wooden frame of the December birth flower, the narcissus.

Hope
Happiness
Optimism

Which makes it a very happy and positive little flower!

Narcissus in Literature and Folklore

Narcissus is a character from Greek Mythology. The legend goes that he was a man of great beauty. So much so, that he fell in love with his own reflection. In fact, he loved himself so much that he stared at himself in a silvery pool so long that he died. And from where he died, sprouted a flower. A narcissus!

Literature

Narcissus has been used as a character name in many modern literary works. Most notably, perhaps, in Harry Potter where Draco Malfoy's mother is named Narcissa. Also Herman Hesse's Narcisuss and Golmund, published in 1930, explores a different twist on the character. And even the ship in Ridley Scott's film, Alien, bares the name!

It's also thought that the Greek Myth directly influenced Oscar Wilde's The Picture of Dorian Gray.

Music

As with a lot of Greek mythology, Narcissus has inspired a lot of musical compositions throughout generations. From melodies by composer Ethelbert Nevin, to Allanis Morrisette. The theme can be found in almost every genre of music!

Glass bottle keepsake gift of the December birth flower, the narcissus.

Growing Narcissus

Narcissi are the ultimate spring flower. And ridiculously easy to grow. They give back year after year if planted properly and spread to create beautiful pops of colour from March - May.

By planting bulbs in autumn you should be rewarded with flowers by spring. And so long as you keep them well fed throughout the seasons, they should come back year after year.

Check out the RHS guide to planting narcissi here:

Daffodils / RHS Gardening