December birth flower · Narcissus papyraceus / N. tazetta
Narcissus (Paperwhite) meaning & symbolism
The narcissus (paperwhite) stands for hope, wealth, good wishes and self-reflection. Here's what each color means, where the flower comes from, and how to use it.
Narcissus (Paperwhite) color meanings
- White: purity and hope
- Yellow-cupped: good fortune
History & folklore
The flower is named after Narcissus of Greek myth, who fell in love with his own reflection. Paperwhites are forced indoors for winter holidays, and in Chinese tradition the narcissus blooms for the Lunar New Year as a symbol of wealth and good fortune.
In birth flower charts it's paired with the holly.
Fun facts
- Paperwhites need no chilling period, so they can bloom indoors weeks after planting.
- A splash of alcohol in the water keeps forced paperwhites from flopping.
As a tattoo
Clusters of small, star-shaped paperwhites on a tall stem look refined in fine-line black ink. See more December birth flower tattoo ideas.
December birth flower December birthstone
Narcissus (Paperwhite) gifts
Narcissus (Paperwhite) necklaces on Amazon →Narcissus (Paperwhite) botanical prints on Amazon →We may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Disclosure.
Questions, answered
What does a narcissus (paperwhite) symbolize?
The narcissus (paperwhite) symbolizes hope, wealth, good wishes and self-reflection.
What month is the narcissus (paperwhite) birth flower?
Narcissus (Paperwhite) is a birth flower for December.
What do narcissus (paperwhite) colors mean?
White: purity and hope; Yellow-cupped: good fortune.
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