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Description
Narcissus Papyraceus, commonly known as the paperwhite narcissus, is a bulbous perennial plant that is native to the Mediterranean region. It belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family and is popularly cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its fragrant white flowers that bloom in clusters during winter. The plant can grow up to 40cm tall and produces narrow green leaves that are about 30cm long.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus | Narcissus |
Appearance
The paperwhite narcissus produces fragrant flowers that are white and star-shaped. The flowers are borne on slender green stalks that can grow up to 40cm tall. Each stalk can produce several flowers that are about 2.5cm in diameter. The plant has narrow, green leaves that are about 30cm long and grow from the base of the plant. The flowers have a sweet, floral scent that is highly prized in the perfume industry.
Care Guide
Water: Paperwhite narcissus bulbs should be planted in well-draining soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but reduce watering after the flowers have bloomed.
Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer to the soil before planting the bulbs. After the flowers have bloomed, apply a slow-release fertilizer to the soil to promote healthy growth.
Soil: Paperwhite narcissus bulbs grow best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
Sunlight: Paperwhite narcissus plants should be grown in full sunlight to partial shade. The plant can tolerate some shade but will produce fewer flowers.
Hardiness Zones: Paperwhite narcissus bulbs can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Common pests that can affect paperwhite narcissus plants include aphids, thrips, and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Diseases that can affect paperwhite narcissus plants include botrytis blight, which causes grey mold on the flowers and leaves, and fusarium wilt, which causes the leaves to turn yellow and the plant to wilt. These diseases can be controlled with fungicides.
Habitat
The paperwhite narcissus is native to the Mediterranean region and is typically found growing in rocky, well-draining soil. The plant prefers full sunlight to partial shade and can tolerate some drought.
Question and Answer
Q: When should I plant paperwhite narcissus bulbs?
A: Paperwhite narcissus bulbs should be planted in the fall, preferably in September or October.
Q: How often should I water my paperwhite narcissus plant?
A: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but reduce watering after the flowers have bloomed.
Q: Can paperwhite narcissus plants be grown indoors?
A: Yes, paperwhite narcissus plants can be grown indoors in pots. They require bright, indirect sunlight and should be watered regularly.
Q: How long do paperwhite narcissus flowers last?
A: Paperwhite narcissus flowers typically last for 2 to 3 weeks.
Related Plants
- Narcissus poeticus
- Narcissus tazetta
- Narcissus jonquilla
- Narcissus cyclamineus
- Narcissus pseudonarcissus
References
- http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287834&isprofile=1&basic=narcissus%20papyraceus
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/narcissus-papyraceus-paperwhite-narcissus
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/paperwhites/paperwhite-narcissus-care.htm
