From October to March, valleys and abandoned fields across our islands are commonly carpeted by the sweet smelling French daffodil, narċis. This attractive flower is native of the Mediterranean region and is known by the scientific name of Narcissus tazetta. The scientific name is derived from the Greek word narkissos, which refers to “sleep” or “numbness”, because of the plant’s sedative effect, while the epithet tazetta, means a small cup – due to yellow cup-like structure within the flower.
The French daffodil has long been in cultivation and was even known in the times of ancient Egypt and Greece.
This daffodil is a perennial plant, reaching a height of around 50cm to one metre. It is bulbous, having an oval to pear-shaped bulb encased in a yellowish-brown tunic. The linear grey-green leaves, which are usually erect and slightly grooved, develop along with the flowers. And from its hollow, leafless stem, three or more bicoloured flowers are borne. These are usually white with a deep yellow crown-cup at their throat. There are many different varieties and forms of the French daffodil – these may have white to yellow flowers with contrasting white, yellow or orange centres.
Interestingly, the extract from the bulb of this plant is thought to have antioxidant properties, and is today being used in the production of serums and moisturising creams.
Especially in the past, French daffodils were often gathered and sold in large bunches. However, we should avoid collecting wild flowers, as they are important for our natural environment, especially since they provide food, nectar and cover for pollinators and other species. Moreover, without flowers, the plants cannot produce seed. In addition, the French daffodil is considered to be a species of national interest and its exploitation may be subject to management measures.
More information may be obtained by e-mail: nature.requests@mepa.org.mt.
The United Nations declared 2010 to be the International Year of Biodiversity. Malta, together with many other countries around the globe, is carrying out a number of initiatives to celebrate life on earth and the value of biodiversity for our lives. We are all invited to take action in 2010 to safeguard the variety of life on earth: Biodiversity.