The narcissus flower is a widely recognized harbinger of spring, gracing gardens with its distinct charm. Its appearance signals renewal after winter’s dormancy. The flower’s unique structure and varied expressions contribute to its broad appeal.
Key Features of the Narcissus Flower
The defining characteristic of the narcissus flower lies in its two primary structures: the perianth and the corona. The perianth comprises the outer segments, often called petals, which spread outwards, creating a backdrop for the flower’s central feature.
Enclosed within the perianth is the corona, commonly known as the trumpet, cup, or crown. This prominent structure gives the narcissus its recognizable “face,” emerging from the center of the perianth with varied length, width, and form.
Supporting these floral elements are the stem and leaves. The stem, or scape, rises directly from the bulb, holding one or more flowers aloft. Its sturdy nature ensures the flower’s upright display. The leaves are long, slender, and strap-like, emerging from the base of the plant, providing a green frame for the blossoms.
Color and Form Variations
Narcissus flowers exhibit a wide spectrum of colors, though yellow and white are most common. Varieties also display shades of orange, pink, and subtle greens. Some flowers feature bicolors, where the perianth and corona present contrasting shades, or “reversed” bicolors where the corona is lighter.
The form of the perianth varies, influencing the flower’s overall shape. Segments can be broad and rounded, or more pointed and star-like. Some varieties display perianths with ruffled or wavy margins, adding texture.
The corona shows the most variations in form, contributing to the flower’s distinctiveness. It can range from a long, tubular trumpet to a short, shallow cup. Some coronas are nearly flat, while others feature deeply frilled or crinkled edges. These diverse shapes are central to the narcissus’s varied “faces.”
Common Narcissus Types
Narcissus flowers are classified into divisions based on the relative length and form of their corona compared to the perianth. Trumpet narcissus, for example, features a corona as long as, or longer than, the perianth segments, presenting a classic appearance.
Large-cupped narcissus possess a corona more than one-third, but less than the full length, of the perianth segments, creating a balanced look. Small-cupped narcissus have a corona less than one-third the length of the perianth, emphasizing the perianth segments.
Double narcissus varieties display multiple layers of perianth segments or a highly developed, ruffled corona that obscures the central structure, creating an elaborate bloom. Triandrus narcissus typically bear multiple, often pendulous, flowers per stem with reflexed perianth segments and small cups.
Cyclamineus narcissus are characterized by strongly reflexed perianth segments, which sweep back sharply from the corona, giving a distinctive, wind-swept appearance. Tazetta narcissus often produce clusters of fragrant flowers on a single stem, each with a small cup. Poeticus narcissus, known for their strong fragrance, feature pure white perianths and a small, flattened yellow or green cup with a red rim.
The Mythical Connection
The name “narcissus” derives from the ancient Greek myth of Narcissus, a handsome youth known for his beauty. According to legend, Narcissus spurned others’ affections and was cursed to fall in love with his own reflection in water. Unable to embrace his image, he wasted away, and a flower grew in his place. This flower is often depicted with a downward-gazing habit, seemingly bowing towards its reflection. This origin connects its appearance to a tale of self-admiration.