Daffodils and Shamrocks

March Delights: Daffodils and Shamrocks

By Karen E. Armijo

With the roar of March, we welcome the coming of spring. Two of my favorite flowers of the month are daffodils and shamrocks. Both make excellent gifts, are easy to care for, and offer a bright sign that spring has sprung.DaffodilsThe traditional March flowers are daffodils, which symbolize unequaled love, renewal, and fresh starts. Their botanical name is Narcissus, a nod to the inherent numbing and poisonous properties of the flower. There are thousands of daffodil hybrids and cultivars; the Royal Horticultural Society categorizes 13 divisions, including large cups, smaller trumpets, jonquils, and wild varieties. The pleasant shapes and bright colors of daffodils are inviting to humans, while their poisonous properties make them ideal for critter-exclusion borders.Daffodil bulbs are relatively low-maintenance but require moister conditions during flowering. They are cold tolerant and hardy, making them a good choice for novice gardeners. They are best planted (and most available) in fall, and they will not bloom without a cold, dormant period. It is recommended to plant the bulbs in moderately fertile, well-drained soil as they are susceptible to rot if soil conditions are too moist. The bulbs intake nutrients after the bloom expires to feed the next year’s bloom. To ensure the nutrients are directed towards the bulb for the following year, it is recommended you deadhead the spent blossom but let the leaves die back naturally, after which they can be removed with no harm to the bulb.ShamrocksShamrocks (Oxalisspecies) can be found as groundcovers or as houseplants. Because of their association with Saint Patrick, shamrock plants are popular gifts in March, when that saint is celebrated. They symbolize rebirth and are perfect for welcoming the spring. The two best-known varieties for houseplants are Oxalis regnelliand Oxalis triangularis, the latter known as false shamrock or purple shamrock. Oxalis regnelliis a classic green tri-leaf version with small, delicate white flowers, while Oxalis triangularishas dark purple leaves and pinkish lavender flowers. These plants enjoy bright, indirect sun and well-drained soil with regular watering, though the soil should dry out a bit between waterings; soggy soil will cause the plant to lie low, whereas soil that is too dry will result in wilted stems. The plants are hardy and can be divided anytime of the year simply by separating the tuberous roots into clumps and repotting.Resources:American Daffodil Society, Daffodil FAQsHouseplant 411, Shamrock PlantMichigan State University Extension, The care and feeding of purple-leaf shamrocksOld Farmer’s Almanac, Growing DaffodilsPhoto caption: