Narcissus papyraceus

Narcissus papyraceus
Paperwhite (Narcissus papyraceus)
Paperwhite, Narcissus papyraceus
Scientific classification e
Kingdom: Plantae
clade: Angiosperms
clade: Monocots
Order: Asparagales
Family: Amaryllidaceae
Subfamily: Amaryllidoideae
Genus: Narcissus
Species: N. papyraceus
Binomial name
Narcissus papyraceus
Ker-Gawl.

Narcissus papyraceus (from papyrus and aceus ; meaning paper like [1]), commonly known as Paperwhite, is a perennial bulbous plant native to the Mediterranean region. The white flowers are borne in bunches and are strongly fragrant. It is frequently grown as a house plant, often forced to flower at Christmas.

Paperwhites are part of the Narcissus genus which is typically associated with daffodils.

Contents

Description

The stems are mid-green and grow upright. Mature height is usually 30–45 cm, though varies by variety. Several white flowers are borne at the top of each stem and are strongly scented.

Cultivation

Many cultivars are available and are easy to force into bloom indoors. Unlike other Narcissus species, Paperwhites do not require chilling to promote bloom. The bulbs begin to grow as soon as they are planted, with flowers appearing in 3–4 weeks.

Narcissus papyraceus thrives in moist, peat moss based potting mix. Plants can also be grown in containers of water. Cool temperatures between 7-18°C and indirect light will help to prolong the bloom time.

Gallery

  • Narcissus papyraceus 'Paperwhite'

  • Paperwhite bulbs being induced to bloom indoors.

References

  1. ^ Dictionary of Botanical Epithets pamphylicus - papyrifer. Retrieved January 5, 2007.

External links


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