4 named cultivars

bulb corm tuber

Paperwhite

The Story

Plant Bio

A bulbous perennial that produces sturdy stems, each bearing a cluster (umbel) of 4-15 highly fragrant, small-cupped flowers. It is a variable species with bicolored or solid-colored flowers.

Distinguished by its multiple flowers per stem (polyanthus) and a powerful, sweet fragrance. Many cultivars are suitable for forcing indoors during winter.

Uses & Benefits:

Adds early spring fragrance and bright yellow blooms to gardens.

Naturalizes easily, requiring minimal maintenance.

Supports pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Bulb Corm Tuber

Height

15"

Width

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Mediterranean region

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested

Planting

How to Grow

Plant bulbs in fall, 6 inches deep in well-draining soil.
Tuck bulbs 2 inches apart, with pointed end upward.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil.
Mulch with organic material to retain moisture.
Allow foliage to yellow naturally for bulb health.
Divide bulbs every 3-4 years in late summer.

Pro Tip

Plant bulbs in a sunny spot with well-draining soil for best blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during active growth 🌱
Apply balanced fertilizer in early spring
Allow foliage to die back naturally after flowering

Don't

Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
Don’t cut foliage until it has yellowed
Never plant in waterlogged soil

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Divide
Fertilize
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Fragrant border with silvery foliageNaturalized woodland gardenSunny rock garden accent

Companion Plants

Tulips Hyacinths Crocuses Daffodils Pansies

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Paperwhite questions

What zones can Paperwhite grow in?

Paperwhite is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Paperwhite deer resistant?

Yes — Paperwhite is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Paperwhite bloom?

Paperwhite typically blooms in winter to early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Paperwhite need full sun?

Paperwhite does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Paperwhite drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Paperwhite handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.