The March birth flower is the daffodil, with the jonquil as the second flower for the month. Both stand for new beginnings, hope and the return of spring, with the jonquil adding a note of affection and desire.
Both belong to the genus Narcissus, and both bloom just as winter loosens its grip. If you know a March birthday, here is what the flowers mean, how color changes the message, and what to give or plant.
Quick Answer: March Birth Flower Facts
- Main flower: daffodil (Narcissus).
- Second flower: jonquil (Narcissus jonquilla).
- Daffodil meaning: new beginnings, rebirth, hope, joy.
- Jonquil meaning: affection, desire, and “love me.”
- Birthstone: aquamarine.
Daffodil Meaning: The March Birth Flower
Daffodils are among the first bulbs to flower, so they have long stood for rebirth and fresh starts. They are the national flower of Wales, tied to St David’s Day on March 1, and many cancer charities use the daffodil as a symbol of hope. Giving a bunch says “a new chapter begins” without being overly sentimental.
Jonquil Meaning: The Second March Flower
Jonquils are a small, strongly fragrant daffodil group, with several clustered yellow flowers per stem and narrow rounded leaves. In flower language they speak of affection and desire, and they are sometimes interpreted as “I hope for a return of affection.” They also suggest sympathy and warmth.
What Each Color Means
| Color | Meaning | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow daffodil | Joy, new beginnings, friendship | Birthdays, congratulations |
| White daffodil | Purity, respect, remembrance | Sympathy, formal occasions |
| Orange daffodil | Enthusiasm, warmth | Celebrations |
| Yellow and white bicolor | Balance, cheerful hope | Mixed bouquets |
| Jonquil (yellow) | Affection, desire | Romantic or close friends |
| Single daffodil | Traditionally bad luck (folklore) | Give a bunch instead |
March Birthday Gift Ideas
- A bunch of daffodils in bud: tied with ribbon, they open over a few days.
- Potted daffodils or jonquils: can be planted outdoors after flowering.
- Bulbs in a gift box: a fall gift for next year’s March birthday garden.
- Aquamarine jewelry: the March birthstone, paired with a bunch of yellow flowers.
- Mixed spring bouquet: daffodils with tulips and hyacinths.
How to Grow Daffodils and Jonquils
- Plant bulbs in early to mid fall, pointy end up, in a sunny or lightly shaded spot with well-drained soil.
- Dig holes about two to three times the bulb’s height deep: typically 6 inches (15 cm) for large daffodils, shallower for small ones.
- Space bulbs 3 to 6 inches (8 to 15 cm) apart and water once after planting.
- After flowering, leave the foliage until it turns yellow, at least six weeks, so the bulb stores energy.
- Feed with a low-nitrogen fertilizer after bloom, and divide crowded clumps every few years.
Most daffodils are hardy in roughly USDA zones 3 to 9, depending on type; check your zone on the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map. Our guide on when to plant daffodil bulbs has the full timing guide.
Common Problems and Pet Safety
| Problem | Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Leaves but no flowers (“blind” bulbs) | Too little sun, cut leaves too early, crowding | Leave leaves to die back; divide clumps; feed after bloom |
| Bulbs rot | Waterlogged soil | Improve drainage |
| Short flowering | Warm spell | Plant a mix of early, mid and late varieties |
| Vase flowers wilt other blooms | Sap released from cut stems | Stand daffodils alone in water for a few hours before mixing |
All parts of daffodils are toxic to dogs, cats and people if eaten, with the bulbs the most dangerous. See the ASPCA toxic plants list for details.
Explore Other Birth Month Flowers
See the full birth month flowers guide, or read the neighboring months: February birth month flowers and January birth flower. To plant more spring bulbs, see when to plant tulip bulbs and hyacinth care.
Conclusion
The daffodil and jonquil are cheerful reminders that winter ends. They make a fitting gift for a March birthday, a simple bulb to plant in fall, and one of the easiest spring flowers to grow in almost any garden.
FAQ
What is the March birth flower?
The daffodil is the main March birth flower, with the jonquil as the second.
What does the daffodil symbolize?
New beginnings, rebirth, hope and joy.
Are daffodils and jonquils the same?
Jonquils are a type of daffodil (Narcissus jonquilla) with clustered, fragrant flowers and slim, rush-like leaves.
Are daffodils poisonous to pets?
Yes. They can cause vomiting, drooling and other symptoms; contact a vet if a pet has chewed them.
What is the March birthstone?
Aquamarine, with bloodstone as the traditional alternative.
