An Introduction to Narcissus Varieties and Their Characteristics and Water Culture Care Methods

Narcissus is a perennial herbaceous bulbous flower of the genus Narcissus in the Amaryllidaceae family, and it is also one of China's traditional famous flowers. Its blooming period is mostly in winter and spring, and it often blooms around the Spring Festival, so it is regarded as a classic among New Year flowers. Its bulb resembles an onion, and its leaves are flat like ribbons. When it blooms, the pure white petals are paired with a golden-yellow corona, giving off a light, elegant fragrance, and it has long been known by the laudatory name "Fairy of the Waves."

Among the common domestic narcissus, those produced in Zhangzhou, Fujian, are the most famous, and there are also local types such as Chongming narcissus. According to petal form, they can be divided into two categories: single-petaled and double-petaled. Single-petaled varieties have pure white tepals and a golden-yellow corona, commonly known as "golden cup and silver platform," while double-petaled varieties are called "jade exquisite," with curled and wrinkled petals and a more intense fragrance. In addition to Chinese narcissus, there is also the larger-flowered daffodil, also called trumpet narcissus, with rich flower colors, often used for garden planting and cut-flower display.

For home cultivation, narcissus is mainly grown in water, and the nutrients mainly come from what is stored in the bulb itself, so fertilization is generally unnecessary. It is only necessary to keep the water clean, change the water regularly, and place it in a position with sufficient light. If light is insufficient and the temperature is too high, the plant is prone to leggy growth, with slender, lodging leaves. Properly low temperatures combined with sufficient sunlight can make the plant compact and sturdy and make the flowering period last longer. Soil culture or sand culture can also be used, and in management, temperature control and exposure to light are likewise the key points.

It should be noted that the whole narcissus plant is toxic, and the sap of the bulb is quite irritating. Ingestion by mistake can cause discomfort. When cultivating and carving it at home, avoid contact between the sap and the mouth and eyes, and if there are young children or pets in the home, it should be placed out of reach. Although carving and shaping can change the direction in which the leaves and flower stems extend, protection should be taken during the operation. Bulbs that have already bloomed consume a great deal of nutrients, and under ordinary home conditions it is difficult for them to bloom again, so they are mostly enjoyed as a one-time flower.