Much has been written about the beauty of daffodils over the centuries – but why are they sometimes called Narcissi? The name daffodil is commonly used to refer to the yellow or white flowers with six petals and a trumpet-like centre, but these flowers are technically known as narcissus as that is the botanical name for the whole genus. So why narcissus? Let’s dive into the fascinating history and mythology behind these beautiful blooms.
What is the origin of the name narcissus for the daffodil flower?
The name “narcissus” for the daffodil flower has an interesting origin. It can be traced back to ancient Greek mythology. According to the myth, Narcissus was a handsome young man who was known for his exceptional good looks. He was so beautiful that many people fell in love with him, including the nymph Echo who was cruelly rejected; in her despair, she faded away leaving only her voice echoing in the mountains.
However, Narcissus was arrogant and self-absorbed. He rejected all the people who loved him because he believed that he was superior to them. The goddess Nemesis, angered by Narcissus’s arrogance and cruelty, led him to a pool of water where he saw his own reflection for the first time. Captivated by his own beauty, Narcissus fell deeply in love with his reflection, unable to tear himself away. He wasted away, his love for his own image consuming him, until he died by the pool.
The myth continues: from his body, a beautiful flower sprung forth, its golden petals mirroring the colour of his hair, and its delicate trumpet-shaped centre resembling the shape of his moth. This flower came to be known as the daffodil, or narcissus, and is forever linked to the consequences of excessive pride and self-obsession.
In addition to its mythological meaning, the daffodil has also been used symbolically in various cultures throughout history. In some cultures, it represents new beginnings and rebirth, as it is one of the first flowers to bloom in spring. In others, it symbolizes hope and renewal.
‘‘I never saw daffodils so beautiful; they grew among the mossy stones about them, some rested their heads upon these stones as on a pillow for weariness and the rest tossed and reeled and danced and seemed as if they verily laughed with the wind that blew upon them over the lake; they looked so gay ever dancing, ever changing” – Dorothy Wordsworth
Lenten Lilies – Narcissus pseudonarcissus
Native to the UK the Lenten Lilies are smaller and daintier than horticultural varieties and look glorious in large drifts. The inspiration for William Wordsworth’s ‘I wandered lonely as a cloud’ they can be found naturalised in the Lake District, Farndale in North Yorkshire, and in parts of Gloucestershire.
Slowly but surely, they are becoming established amongst the trees on the left of the drive about 50 yards before the gate into the Logie House Gardens.
There is, of course, a place in a garden for the fresh vibrancy of the showier hybrids but it would be hard to tire of the gentleness of the wild daffodil.
by Panny Laing, March 2025
