Paperwhites and narcissus are indeed the same in condition of their classification as member of the Narcissus genus . However , it is authoritative to notice that there are various types of narcissus , and paperwhites are just one specific variety within this larger grouping .
Paperwhites ( Narcissus papyraceus ) are a special case of narcissus that are lie with for their delicate white flowers and strong fragrance . They are characterized by their clusters of small , star - shaped blooms and slender , pasture - like leaf . In terms of appearance , paperwhites are quite similar to other narcissus multifariousness , such as the classical daffodils that are usually seen in gardens .
While both paperwhites and other narcissus varieties belong to the same genus , there are some deviation in terms of their preferred growing conditions and hardiness . Paperwhites are native to regions with mild , frost - free climates in the Mediterranean , and they thrive in area with mild winters and hot summers . In the United States , paperwhites are wintertime hardy only in growing zones 8 - 11 , which are typically found in the southerly part of the country .
For gardeners in cold areas , where wintertime temperatures on a regular basis drop below freezing , paperwhites are typically grown as indoor plant life during the winter month . By plant the bulbs in containers and provide them with the appropriate care , they can be enjoyed as beautiful indoor bloom of youth during the winter time of year .
One of the reasons why paperwhites are popular indoor plants is their ability to bloom relatively chop-chop . Unlike many other medulla industrial plant that require a long time period of frigid quiescence before flowering , paperwhites can stock and produce flowers within a few workweek of planting . This seduce them a popular pick for drive indoors during the winter , as they can fetch a burst of colour and fragrance to home during a time when outside horticulture options may be limited .
When it comes to growing paperwhites indoors , there are a few key consideration to keep in judgment . These medulla are typically planted in containers filled with well - draining potting dirt , and they should be placed in a location with smart , indirect visible radiation . It ’s important to keep the grime consistently moist , but not overly wet , as excessive wet can direct to bulb rot .
Another singular aspect of paperwhites is their strong aroma , which can be quite polarizing . Some hoi polloi absolutely love the angelic , floral scent of paperwhites , while others may find it overpowering . It ’s deserving take this view before deciding to mature paperwhites indoors , particularly if you or your category members have sensitiveness to strong smells .
While paperwhites and narcissus are indeed the same in term of their classification within the Narcissus genus , paperwhites refer specifically to a particular diverseness of narcissus . They are tender lightbulb that are aboriginal to icing - spare regions of the Mediterranean and are typically grow indoors in cold areas . Whether you choose to enjoy the beauty and fragrancy of paperwhites indoors or plant them in your garden , they are trusted to add a touch of elegance and magic spell to any space .
Caroline Bates
