December Birth Flower: Narcissus
Narcissus symbolize hope, prosperity, and good fortune. They are associated with the New Year and are often forced indoors for winter blooms. They also symbolize vanity and self-love in some traditions.
Narcissus (including Paperwhite and Poets Narcissus) is December's birth flower, known for their delicate white flowers and sweet fragrance. These winter-blooming flowers symbolize hope and prosperity.
Quick Facts
Meaning & Symbolism
Narcissus symbolize hope, prosperity, and good fortune. They are associated with the New Year and are often forced indoors for winter blooms. They also symbolize vanity and self-love in some traditions.
Growing & Care Tips
Narcissus are extremely hardy and can be grown in zones 3-9. They prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Plant bulbs in fall for spring blooms. Paperwhites can be forced indoors for winter flowers.
History & Origins
Narcissus was chosen for December because it can be forced to bloom indoors during the winter months, bringing cheer to the darkest time of the year. The ancient Greeks associated narcissus with the myth of Narcissus, a beautiful youth who fell in love with his own reflection. In medieval times, narcissus was associated with hope and prosperity, and was often given as a New Year gift.
Cultural Significance
Narcissus has a rich cultural history. In Wales, narcissus is the national flower and is associated with St. David's Day. In Chinese culture, narcissus is associated with the Lunar New Year and is believed to bring good luck and prosperity for the coming year. In the language of flowers, narcissus symbolizes hope, prosperity, and good fortune. In modern times, narcissus is associated with December birthdays and is often forced indoors for winter blooms, bringing a touch of spring to the darkest days of winter.
Did You Know?
Narcissus are the national flower of Wales. In Chinese culture, narcissus are associated with the New Year and are believed to bring good luck and prosperity for the coming year.
The poinsettia turns December into a celebration of light and cheer.