We’re on a mission to add spring colour to our garden by planting daffodils, and we love their bright, cheerful colours and delicate, trumpet-shaped blooms. They’re also easy to grow, hardy and can even survive our Welsh winters. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting out, join us as we delve into the wonderful world of daffodils and discover why these charming flowers have captured our hearts.
Last autumn, we added to our growing list of daffodils by adding these varieties from Dutch Grown under our copper beech: Art Design, British Gamble, Can Can Girl, Double Star, Lingerie, Virginia Sunrise and Happy Smiles. They have all emerged this spring and have given us accents of colour that we can see from the house.
Get 10% off at Dutch Grown by using the discount code MYHOMEFARM10
Fun facts about daffodils
– Daffodils belong to the Amaryllidaceae family, which also includes other popular garden plants like amaryllis and snowdrops.
– There are over 50 species of daffodils, and countless cultivars, which means there are many different colours, shapes, and sizes to choose from.
– Daffodils are native to Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East, but have been widely cultivated and naturalised in other parts of the world.
– In the Victorian era, daffodils were used to symbolise chivalry and unrequited love.
– Daffodils are poisonous to humans and animals if ingested, so it is important to handle them with care and keep them out of reach of pets and children.
– Daffodils are one of the first flowers to bloom in the springtime.
– Daffodils are incredibly hardy and can survive in a variety of soil types and weather conditions.
– Daffodils are great naturalises, meaning they multiply quickly and can form large clusters over time.
– Daffodils are known for their distinctive fragrance, which can range from subtle to quite strong depending on the variety.
– Daffodils are popular flowers for cut arrangements, as they can last up to a week in a vase.
Colourful history of daffodils
Daffodils, also known as Narcissus, are a group of spring-flowering bulbs that are cherished for their bright yellow and white blooms. These flowers have a long and fascinating history, dating back thousands of years.
The origin of daffodils can be traced back to ancient Greece and Rome. The Greek myth of Narcissus tells the story of a young man who falls in love with his own reflection in a pool of water and is transformed into a flower by the gods. This flower came to be known as Narcissus.
During the Middle Ages, daffodils were used for medicinal purposes. They were believed to have healing properties and were used to treat various ailments, including coughs and wounds.
In the 16th century, daffodils became popular in gardens throughout Europe. They were cultivated for their beauty and were used to decorate homes and gardens. During this time, new varieties of daffodils were developed, including the double-flowered varieties that we frequently see today.
In the 19th century, daffodils became even more popular. They were used in floral arrangements and were also given as gifts. In fact, it was during this time that the daffodil became the national flower of Wales, where it is celebrated on St. David’s Day.