Narcissus
Narcissus tazetta
Family: Amaryllidaceae · Also called Paperwhite, Tazetta, Chinese Sacred Lily, Hermione tazetta var. cupularis, Narcissus tazetta subsp. eutazetta, Narcissus multiflorus
Heady & Exotic · Winter–Spring bloomer
The narcissus is winter's fragrant gift, clusters of small, intensely scented flowers that bloom when little else dares. Unlike its cousin the daffodil, the narcissus (particularly Narcissus tazetta) produces multiple blooms per stem, each releasing a heady perfume that can fill an entire room.
self-reflection, hope, renewal
In the Victorian language of flowers, narcissus means “Self-reflection and hope”. The Greek myth of Narcissus, a beautiful youth who fell in love with his own reflection and was transformed into this flower, gave us the word 'narcissism.' In Chinese culture, the narcissus blooming at New Year is one of the strongest omens of good fortune for the coming year.
Did You Know?
Narcissus absolute is one of the rarest and most expensive ingredients in perfumery, costing over $10,000 per kilogram. The scent is so complex that it contains over 400 identifiable chemical compounds.
Rocky hillsides, olive groves, and meadows around the Mediterranean basin
Narcissus is native to Mediterranean. It naturally grows in rocky hillsides, olive groves, and meadows around the mediterranean basin.
Scent Profile
“A heady, sweet-floral fragrance with green and spicy facets, intoxicating and complex, one of the most powerful natural scents.”
Quick Reference
- Scientific NameNarcissus tazetta
- FamilyAmaryllidaceae
- Native ToMediterranean
- Bloom SeasonWinter–Spring
- LifespanPerennial
- Birth MonthDecember
Cultural Significance
The Greek myth of Narcissus, a beautiful youth who fell in love with his own reflection and was transformed into this flower, gave us the word 'narcissism.' In Chinese culture, the narcissus blooming at New Year is one of the strongest omens of good fortune for the coming year.