March marks the official arrival of Spring - the beginning of sunshine and warmer days ahead. The arrival of March calls for a celebration of brightness, warmth and happy new beginnings. It therefore seems somewhat unsurprising that March’s birth flowers are the daffodil and the jonquil - two colourful, vibrant blooms. A bouquet containing either of these flowers will be sure to add a bit of light and happiness to your day! These flowers are not only the perfect way to treat yourself this March, but also make an excellent gift for someone special, particularly someone who has a March birthday.

Keep reading to learn more about the history of March birth flowers and what makes them so special.

Daffodil

The daffodil is a cheery, bright bloom and has become emblematic of the arrival of Spring. Although daffodils are most commonly found to grow in shades of yellow, they can also be found in white and orange. Not only do they look divine in flower arrangements, but they also shine brightly in people’s gardens in spring-time.

History of the daffodil

The daffodil belongs to the genus ‘Narcissus’. There is no definite meaning of the word ‘narcissus’, but it has its roots in the Greek word for ‘intoxicated’. The daffodil was a popular flower in London, particularly in the 17th century - even Shakespeare was a lover of daffodils, dedicating a verse to the flower in ‘The Winter’s Tale’. Shakespeare wrote: ‘When daffodils begin to peer [...] Why then, comes the sweet o’ the year’. In other words, the bloom of daffodils reflects new, sweet beginnings and we could not agree more! Other poets have also paid homage to the daffodil - notably the famous English Romantic poet William Wordsworth who wrote about daffodils in his poem ‘I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud’.

Meaning of the daffodil

Daffodils symbolise fresh starts and rebirth, as well as being representative of Spring’s arrival. Not only this, but they also hold meanings of forgiveness, renewal and also self reflection. The strong link between daffodils and the theme of self-reflection stems from the Greek myth of Narcissus who fell in love with his own reflection and drowned. It has even been believed that the way that the daffodil’s head drops down slightly mirrors the way in which Narcissus bent his head to stare at himself in the water.

Despite the self-indulgent Narcissus, daffodils are emblems of positivity and new beginnings. If the mere symbolism of the flower isn’t enough to convince you of their cheerfulness, their bright petals sure are.

What do daffodils say about March babies?

Since daffodils are a symbol of forgiveness, new beginnings and second chances, it comes as no surprise that March babies are understanding, compassionate and forgiving. Just like the daffodil, those born in March radiate positivity and brighten up the lives of their loved ones. We all need a March baby in our lives!

Jonquil

March’s second birth flower is the jonquil, which also belongs to the Narcissus genus. The name ‘jonquil’ has its roots in the Spanish word ‘jonquillo’, which is a rush plant. The jonquil actually resembles rush plants due to its round shape. Each bloom contains bright yellow blossoms and bears a very close resemblance to daffodils, causing them to often be mistaken for each other. Unlike the daffodil, however, the jonquil has darker foliage. Each slender stem, which is actually quite short, contains around two-six flowers. However, what the jonquil lacks in size, it certainly makes up for in scent, boasting the sweetest of fragrance. In fact, it is said that the jonquil is the sweetest of all flowers of the Narcissus genus, making it a popular choice of flower for this time of the year among gardeners and florist customers alike.

History of the jonquil

Since the jonquil gets its name from the Spanish word ‘jonquillo’, it will perhaps come as no surprise that the jonquil is native to Portugal and Spain. It has been said that Roman soldiers were the ones who introduced the jonquil to England during the Crusades. These flowers are also admired by literary icons, most notably Tennessee Williams in his play ‘The Glass Menagerie’. In the play they are used to represent romance and nostalgia.

Meaning of the jonquil

According to the Greeks, the jonquil represented sympathy and sadness. Because of this, they were included in bouquets as gifts for those who had suffered a loss. Similar to the daffodil, jonquils have also been thought to reflect luck and new beginnings. In China they are representative of hope and luck in the New Year. The jonquil is more commonly thought to reflect friendship and happiness. The jonquil may also be used to send a romantic message to a loved one - the gift of a jonquil is a sign of affection and can be used to communicate requited love and desire.

What do jonquils say about March babies?

Since jonquils reflect new beginnings, they reflect the positive and hopeful nature of March babies. They also suggest that those born in March are caring and compassionate.

SHOP BIRTHDAY FLOWERS

Check out our collection of daffodils and jonquils and treat yourself or a March baby this month!

Since March babies are beacons of light and joy, adding bursts of positivity to the lives of those around them, it only seems fair to return the favour and brighten up their day with a wonderful bouquet of March birth flowers. Since these flowers are widely known to reflect new beginnings and hope they are a perfect symbol of good luck so why not present them as a gift to someone in need of luck!