May brings longer days, warmer weather, and gardens bursting into life—and what better plant to celebrate this vibrant shift than the daffodil? With its trumpet-shaped blooms and radiant yellow tones, the daffodil (botanical name: Narcissus) is a timeless symbol of spring, renewal, and optimism.

At Planteka, every month we spotlight a new plant to help you learn, grow, and connect more deeply with the world of plants. 🌿 In April, we explored the striking purple leaves of Oxalis triangularis. This time, we turn to a classic spring bloomer whose beauty is matched by deep cultural roots and easy care.

History and origin of the daffodil

Native to Southern Europe and North Africa, daffodils have been cherished for thousands of years. The ancient Greeks associated the flower with the myth of Narcissus—a youth who fell in love with his own reflection—giving the plant its botanical name.

In many cultures, daffodils symbolize rebirth and new beginnings. In the UK and Ireland, they’re associated with springtime festivals and even charity campaigns. In Wales, daffodils are worn on St. David’s Day as a national symbol, and in China, they’re tied to good fortune and prosperity.

Today, daffodils are beloved across the globe for their cheerful blooms and their ability to come back year after year with little fuss.

Characteristics of daffodils

Bright blooms – Most daffodils are yellow or white, with a trumpet-like central cup and six petals. Some varieties even have pink or orange tones.
Bulb-based – Daffodils grow from bulbs planted in autumn, lying dormant until spring.
Sun-lovers – They thrive in full to partial sunlight.
Cold hardy – Ideal for temperate climates and easy to naturalize in gardens.
Pollinator-friendly – Their early blooms offer one of the first food sources for bees after winter.
Toxic to pets – All parts of the plant, especially the bulb, are toxic to cats and dogs if ingested.

How to care for daffodils

Daffodils are known for being low-maintenance, especially when planted outdoors. But they can also be enjoyed indoors with the right care. Here’s how to keep them thriving:

1. Light

✔️ Outdoors: Full sun to partial shade.
✔️ Indoors: Place near a bright window for maximum blooming potential.

2. Watering

✔️ Outdoors: Water when first planted and during dry spells in spring.
✔️ Indoors: Keep soil slightly moist, but never soggy. Good drainage is key.

Tip: After blooming, let the foliage die back naturally. This allows the bulb to store energy for next year’s blooms.

3. Soil

✔️ Well-draining soil is essential. Add compost to enrich the soil and encourage healthy growth.

4. Temperature

✔️ Daffodils need a cold period to bloom—plant the bulbs in autumn for spring flowers.
✔️ If forcing them indoors, chill bulbs in a cool space (5–10°C / 40–50°F) for 12–15 weeks before potting.

5. Fertilizer

✔️ Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer in early spring as shoots emerge. Over-fertilizing can lead to weak, floppy stems.

Can I grow daffodils in pots?

Absolutely! Daffodils are perfect for balconies or terraces too. Here’s how:

1. Choose a container with good drainage.
2. Plant bulbs close together but not touching.
3. Keep pots outdoors over winter, or simulate winter indoors with refrigeration.
4. Bring them into the light in early spring for blooming.

Styling ideas: how to enjoy daffodils at home

Window boxes or balcony pots – Combine with other spring bulbs like tulips or hyacinths.
Indoor arrangements – Cut daffodils make lovely vase flowers—just don’t mix them with other species, as they release sap that can damage other stems.
Rustic garden beds – Plant in natural drifts or clusters for a cottage-style garden feel.
Seasonal centrepieces – Add a burst of yellow to your home with potted daffodils as a springtime table feature.

Fun facts about daffodils

🔸 In Victorian flower language, daffodils meant “new beginnings” or “unrequited love.”
🔸 Daffodils contain galantamine, a compound used in treating Alzheimer’s disease.
🔸 One daffodil in a bouquet used to symbolize bad luck—but a bunch means joy and prosperity!

Ready to bring spring indoors? 🌱

Whether you grow them in the garden, in pots, or enjoy a few blooms in a vase, daffodils are a joyful reminder that new growth is always around the corner.

🌼 Want to go beyond just keeping plants alive?

Join our Gardening Course for Beginners, available in Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia, and online. You’ll learn everything you need—from how plants grow (like the magic of photosynthesis!) to how to choose the right soil, spot pests early, and design a green space you love. Perfect for anyone ready to bloom this season 🌿

📩 Looking for a thoughtful gift? The course can also be purchased as a gift card—ideal for that friend who just bought their first plant (or their 50th).

💬 What do daffodils mean to you? Have you grown them before? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your springtime stories!