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(Narcissus papyraceus)
Paperwhite Narcissus (Narcissus papyraceus)
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Lies Van Rompaey
CC BY 4.0
Image By:
Lies Van Rompaey
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Lies Van Rompaey | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Rights Holder: Lies Van Rompaey | Publisher: iNaturalist | Date Created: 2017-01-01T15:13:35-08:00 |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Narcissus papyraceus, commonly known as Paperwhite Narcissus, is a deciduous perennial herb native to the Mediterranean, specifically to a range of habitats including open woodlands, coastal areas, and rocky outcrops. It is often found in loamy and clay soils, near water, on slopes, and in dunes. The plant typically reaches a mature height of 1–1.5 ft (30–45 cm) and is known for its clusters of white, strongly fragrant flowers that bloom in winter, often around Christmas. The flowers are particularly showy due to their bright white color and powerful scent.
Paperwhite Narcissus is valued for its ease of forcing into bloom indoors, making it a popular houseplant during the winter months. It is also used in decorative holiday displays and as a fragrant addition to cut flower arrangements. Unlike other Narcissus species, Paperwhites do not require a chilling period to initiate blooming, which simplifies indoor cultivation. The bulbs can be grown in moist, peat moss-based potting mix or even in containers of water. To extend the flowering period, cool temperatures between 50–65 °F (10–18 °C) and indirect light are recommended. Outdoors, they perform best in full sun to part shade with medium water requirements and well-drained soil. However, gardeners should be cautious as Paperwhites can become invasive in some regions outside their native range.CC BY-SA 4.0
Paperwhite Narcissus is valued for its ease of forcing into bloom indoors, making it a popular houseplant during the winter months. It is also used in decorative holiday displays and as a fragrant addition to cut flower arrangements. Unlike other Narcissus species, Paperwhites do not require a chilling period to initiate blooming, which simplifies indoor cultivation. The bulbs can be grown in moist, peat moss-based potting mix or even in containers of water. To extend the flowering period, cool temperatures between 50–65 °F (10–18 °C) and indirect light are recommended. Outdoors, they perform best in full sun to part shade with medium water requirements and well-drained soil. However, gardeners should be cautious as Paperwhites can become invasive in some regions outside their native range.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Herb
- Height: 1-2 feet
- Width: 0.15-0.3 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: White
- Flowering Season: Winter
- Leaf Retention: Deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Medium
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Erosion Control, Fragrant, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rabbit Resistant, Showy Flowers
Natural Habitat
native to the Mediterranean, specifically to a range of habitats including open woodlands, coastal areas, and rocky outcrops
Other Names
Common Names: Paper-White Daffodil, Paper-White Narcissus, Vit Tazett
Scientific Names: , Narcissus papyraceus, Narcissus tazetta var. papyraceus, Narcissus tazetta subsp. papyraceus, Hermione papyracea, Chione papyracea, Chione papyracea publ, Hermione papyratia, Narcissus linnaeanus subsp. papyraceus, Narcissus papyratius,
GBIF Accepted Name: Narcissus papyraceus Ker Gawl.