Nergis (Narcissus)

Narcissus (Narcissus tazetta L.) is a bulbous, perennial, and fragrant ornamental plant belonging to the Amaryllidaceae (narcissus) family. This genus blooms between midwinter and early spring and comprises approximately 40–100 wild species worldwide. In Türkiye, a total of nine taxa grow, two of which are native (wild) and the others naturalized or cultivated.

Medicinal, Historical, and Cultural Significance

The name “Narcissus” derives from the Greek words narkao or narke, meaning narcotic or numbness. The myth of Narcissus falling in love with his own reflection in ancient Greek and Roman mythology has become closely associated with the narcissus flower. This narrative has resonated widely throughout art and literature throughout history.

Narcissus bulbs are highly toxic due to their high alkaloid content. However, galantamine, one of the alkaloids present, is regarded as a key raw material in the production of drugs used to treat Alzheimer’s disease. Galantamine acts as an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, helping to alleviate symptoms of the disease.

Botanical Characteristics and Morphology

Narcissus flowers are typically white or yellow. The flower structure consists of a narrow tubular base, three petals, and three petal-like sepals (collectively referred to as the perianth or tepals). At the center of the perianth is a cup-shaped additional structure (corona or trumpet), varying in length and color depending on the species. The flower stalk length varies by species and growing conditions; measurements on Narcissus tazetta have determined an average length of approximately 30 cm. Typically, one stalk bears 2–7 flowers, though in some varieties this number may reach up to 21.

Leaves are generally strap-shaped and vary in width among species. In Narcissus serotinus, the leaves are very fine and filamentous. Bulbs serve as the plant’s primary storage and reproductive organs; bulb size is a decisive factor in cut-flower yield. The vase life of narcissus is generally short, ranging from 6 to 14 days if optimal conditions are not provided.

Narcissus (Narcissus) (Pixnio)

Species and Distribution in Türkiye

In Türkiye, narcissus species are primarily distributed naturally along the Taurus Mountains range. Additionally, some species have formed naturalized populations over time in and around Istanbul, İzmir, and Van.

Native (Wild) Species

The native species found naturally in Türkiye’s flora are as follows:

Narcissus tazetta (Karaburun / Ünye Narcissus)

This is the most widespread and culturally well-known narcissus species in Türkiye. It has been cultivated since early times due to its sharp fragrance.

• Subsp. tazetta: Typically bears 2–7 flowers per stem, rarely up to 21. Tepals are white, corona yellow or orange.
• Subsp. aureus: Distinguished by lemon-yellow tepals and corona; grows naturally in the Şırnak–Cizre region.

Narcissus serotinus

It differs from other narcissus species by blooming in autumn. Its leaves are very fine and filamentous. It is usually solitary-flowered, though individuals with 3–4 flowers are occasionally observed. It is classified as “Vulnerable (VU)” according to conservation criteria.

Naturalized Species

Species introduced from outside Anatolia but which have since adapted to the local climate and spread naturally include:

• Narcissus poeticus (Zerrinkadeh): Characterized by white tepals and a small yellow corona with red margins; common around Van and Istanbul.
• Narcissus pseudonarcissus (Trumpet Narcissus): Features a long trumpet-shaped corona; usually solitary-flowered.
• Narcissus jonquilla (Fulya): A densely fragrant species with dark yellow flowers, bearing 2–5 flowers per stem.
• Narcissus papyraceus (Paper White): Entirely white-flowered, blooms in early spring and requires no chilling.
• Narcissus assoanus: A small, yellow-flowered species.

Cultivation and Bulb Characteristics

In narcissus cultivation, bulb size is critical for yield and flower quality. For cut-flower production, it has been determined that bulb circumference must be at least 12–14 cm; bulbs below 10 cm in circumference generally fail to flower. Bulbs are classified by circumference: 8–10 cm, 10–12 cm, and 12–14 cm.

Planting at the end of September provides the best flower quality. Bulbs planted in September begin flowering approximately 114 days later and are ready for harvest by mid-January.

Harvest and Post-Harvest Practices

Flower Harvest (Cut Flower Production)

Harvesting narcissus flowers is one of the most critical stages for vase life and commercial quality. Harvesting is typically performed at the “pencil” or “goose neck” stage, when the bud shows color but has not yet opened. Harvesting is recommended around 08:00 in the morning. Flowers are cut or hand-harvested with stems approximately 30 cm long. Upon arrival at laboratories or packing facilities, a fresh cut of approximately 5 cm is made at the base of the stem to facilitate water uptake.

In Türkiye, the harvest season begins in November and continues until early April, with peak harvesting occurring in January.

Post-Harvest Care and Storage

Harvested flowers undergo various treatments to extend vase life. Water uptake is achieved by placing stems in pure water or solutions containing AVG with 2% sugar added, at a temperature of 22±1 °C. Pre-cooling is applied for 6 hours at 6±0.5 °C to reduce field temperature. Vacuum cooling and Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) techniques help preserve quality by reducing water loss and respiration.

Cut narcissus flowers can be stored for up to 30 days at a temperature of 2±0.5 °C and 95% relative humidity.

Bulb Harvest (Uprooting)

Bulb harvesting is carried out during June, July, and August, when the plant enters dormancy. August is the most common month for harvesting. To prevent bulb crowding in the field and maintain yield, it is recommended to uproot bulbs every two to three years. Harvested bulbs are cleaned of soil and dried in shaded, well-ventilated areas away from direct sunlight.