D is for Daffodil
I love the appearance of daffodils in the spring. They show up just after the crocus and are a sign that spring is really here. These signs of spring are quite common and are naturalized in many areas as well as being parts of formal and home gardens. They are native to the Mediterranean area and were originally grown by Roman and Greeks. At some point they were no longer cultivated and became wild until the early 1600's when the English decided to grow them. The early settlers brought them to the Americas. And the rest is history, as they say.The name daffodil is often used interchangeably with jonquils and narcissus. Some will say that there are differences based on the specific kind of flower and those terms shouldn't be lumped together. Others say, that they are basically all the same thing. As for me, I don't quite understand the differences that are brought up, so I call them all daffodils. My differences are based on color and shape--such as a big yellow one or a small white one with an orange center.
Daffodils are grown in many cultures and each one has a symbolism based on them. There are variances on this, but most of the symbolism has the theme of rebirth. For me they symbolize hope--hope that there is really one flower that the squirrels and deer won't eat. This may be because the daffodil is a poisonous plant.
Daffodils are in full bloom in my neighborhood right now. However, my yard is a little behind my neighbors. While some are blooming, I have at least two varieties that haven't show a bud yet.
Are you enjoying daffodils this spring?
Spring welcoming Daffodils in my yard.
More Info.
http://www.thepoisongarden.co.uk/atoz/narcissus.htm
http://www.flowermeaning.com/daffodil-flower-meaning/
