The Narcissus is December's Birth Flower
Everyone knows that they have a specific birthstone that is placed in jewelry and trinkets to signify the month they were born in. However, many people don't know that just like the stones, each month has a flower or two as well, which symbolizes birth. Here is the history and meaning behind your birth flower, the narcissus.
While most Narcissus's, like the Daffodil bloom in the spring, there are several that bloom in the fall and winter. The Narcissus is mostly native to the Mediterranean region but there are a few found in Asia and China. Because of modifications there are new species being created in nurseries almost every year.
The name Narcissus is from the narcissistic youth of Greek mythology called Narkissos. Technically "Narcissi" is the plural form, The American Daffodil Society prefers the use of "narcissus" for both singular and plural.
Narcissus are often called jonquils in North America, but in reality that name belongs only to the rush-leaved Narcissus jonquilla and cultivars derived from it.
The Narcissus has a trumpet shaped corona that is surrounded by a ring of petals. They are also poisonous and can be fatal if eaten so no parts of the flower should be ingested.
Fun and interesting fact: When comparing the Daffodil, Jonquil, and the "Narcissus", it is important to remember that both the Daffodil and Jonquil are a part of the Narcissus genus. However while the names "Daffodil" and "Narcissus" can be used interchangeably, a Jonquil is a completely different plant down to the shape of the petals and leaves.