The Trumpet Daffodil

The trumpet daffodil is a member of the genus Narcissus. It is named for its long "trumpet" extending from the center of the flower. The trumpet is formally called the corona. The trumpet daffodil was originally grown in Europe and Africa. However, it easily adapts to new conditions, and can survive in any climate, hot or cold, sun or shade. Its ability to adapt so quickly is partly what makes it such a widespread and popular flower. The trumpet daffodil is also a long lasting perennial, and blooms for a long time. Its unique design is very helpful to its pollination process. The trumpet encloses the six stamen and pistil, and provides a place for its pollinator to rest. The daffodil is pollinated by insects, primarily honey bees. The bees enter the trumpet in search of food, but they aren't rewarded by the flower with any. Instead, while looking for the food, they are covered with pollen from the stamen on their backs and antennae. When the bees leave the flower, they move on to another one. When they look in a new flower for food, they are not only collecting more pollen, but they are also dispersing the pollen from the first flower onto the stigma of the new flower. The adaptation of the trumpet to fit the bees needs is an example of a co-evolutionary relationship. The bee has developed pollen baskets and other features to collect pollen, and the daffodil has made it easy for them to collect pollen by letting them rest inside the trumpet.

Livia M.

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