Postal stamps: flowers - self-adhesive - Germany / Federal Republic of Germany 2006 - 90 Euro Cent

For many people, the narcissus is the epitome of spring. The bulbous plant belongs to the family Amaryllis plants. The name "narcissus" probably originated in the Greek word "narcao" (in English "I stun") - matching the intense scent of the flowers. Experts distinguish about 30 to 50 different species. Spreading areas are Europe and North Africa. In Germany there are wild occurrences in the Eifel, in the Hunsrück and in the southern Black Forest. The numerous colors and forms of daffodils inspired many varieties. Miniature paintings prove that already around 1504 Narcissus breeding north of the Afghan city of Kabul could be admired in the stately gardens. Especially in England, the plants have long enjoyed great popularity. The Royal Horticultural Society there lists about 24,000 varieties - a key reason that most Narzissensorten carry English names.