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Paperwhite Narcissus Plant Care
Narcissus tazetta L.
This plant is known for its clusters of small, fragrant, white flowers with yellow centers. Originating from the Mediterranean region, Narcissus tazetta is highly sought after by plant collectors for its beautiful blooms and sweet scent that fills the garden in early spring.
Every 7–14 days
Full sun to partial shade
50–70°F
40–60%
What Is the Paperwhite Narcissus?
Paperwhite Narcissus (Narcissus tazetta) belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family within the Narcissus genus. Paperwhite Narcissus is native to Mediterranean region. Paperwhite Narcissus is also known as Paperwhite, Chinese Sacred Lily, Joss Flower.
Paperwhite Narcissus displays an upright, clumping perennial growth habit, reaching up to 1 inches tall with a spread of approximately 0 inches. Paperwhite Narcissus produces showy, fragrant flowers in shades of yellow, white, and orange.
Leaf size: approximately 0 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Paperwhite Narcissus?
Narcissus tazetta requires watering every 7–14 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7–14 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Paperwhite Narcissus Need?
Paperwhite Narcissus thrives in full sun to partial shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 0–0 lux. Avoid placing Paperwhite Narcissus in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Full sun to partial shade
0–0 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Paperwhite Narcissus Prefer?
Narcissus tazetta grows best at temperatures between 50°F and 70°F. Paperwhite Narcissus prefers humidity levels of 40–60%.
Temperature
50–70°F
Humidity
40–60%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Paperwhite Narcissus?
Well-draining, fertile soil with good organic content. Good drainage is essential for Paperwhite Narcissus to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Paperwhite Narcissus?
Repot every 2-3 years after flowering. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Paperwhite Narcissus?
Paperwhite Narcissus can be propagated through division of offsets, bulb scales, seeds. Similar propagation techniques also apply to daffodil plant care, which shares the same genus.
Fertilizing
Every 2 months
During the growing season
Is the Paperwhite Narcissus Toxic to Pets and Children?
Toxic to Pets & Children
Toxic to humans and pets if ingested
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Paperwhite Narcissus?
Paperwhite Narcissus is susceptible to aphids, narcissus bulb fly, slugs. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Paperwhite Narcissus Need?
Paperwhite Narcissus grows outdoors in USDA Zone 7a – 11b. Native to Mediterranean region, Paperwhite Narcissus is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Paperwhite Narcissus as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 7a – 11b
Keep exploring plants
Paperwhite Narcissus is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Narcissus genus — compare its care with other Narcissus species on PlantoScan.
Paperwhite Narcissus tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.
More Narcissus Species
Other Narcissus species in PlantoScan's care catalogue share similar watering, light, and soil preferences:
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