Paperwhite Narcissus papyraceus 'Ziva' (8)
ABOUT
The 'Ziva' is a variety of the commonly known Paperwhite, which is cherished for its ornamental value. Characterized by its bright white blooms, the Paperwhite's flowers are made up of multiple star-shaped petals that encircle a small cup or trumpet at the center. The petals are known to radiate outwards, creating a harmonious and elegant look that is a delightful addition to any floral display or garden bed. The blooms exude a strong, sweet fragrance that can fill an entire room when grown indoors and adds a pleasant aroma to garden spaces. The intense scent of the Paperwhite can be polarizing—some people find it enchanting, while others may find it overpowering. The foliage of this plant is slender and strap-like, displaying a deep green color that provides a striking contrast to the pure whiteness of the flowers. These dark green leaves emerge from the base of the plant, often appearing slightly arching or somewhat upright, which elegantly showcases the flowers above them. When in bloom, multiple flowers are typically borne on each stem, creating clusters that are especially appealing both in the home and in outdoor settings. Despite the delicate appearance of its flowers and stems, the Paperwhite 'Ziva' is known for its easy-growing nature and is often cultivated for its ability to bloom rapidly even in indoor conditions with minimal care. Overall, the Paperwhite 'Ziva' is recognized and admired for its delightful blooms, rich fragrance, and the contrast between its white flowers and dark green foliage.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae
Synonyms
Paperwhite, Bunch-flowered Narcissus, Paperwhite Narcissus
Common names
Narcissus papyraceus 'Ziva'.
ToxicityTo humans
Paperwhite, a common name for Narcissus papyraceus 'Ziva', is considered toxic to humans if ingested. The plant contains lycorine and other noxious substances which can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhea. In severe cases, the ingestion of large amounts of the plant can lead to more serious effects such as trembling, convulsions, and cardiac arrhythmias. It is important to avoid eating any part of the plant.
To pets
Paperwhite, also known by its botanical name Narcissus papyraceus 'Ziva', is toxic to pets including dogs and cats. The plant contains compounds including lycorine, which can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, abdominal pain, and sometimes even more severe reactions like tremors, convulsions, and heart issues if consumed in significant quantities. Pet owners should prevent their animals from ingesting any part of the plant to avoid these potentially harmful effects.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
3 inches (7.5 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Easy to Grow: Narcissus papyraceus 'Ziva' is a hardy plant that can be grown with minimal effort, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Ornamental Value: With its white blossoms, Paperwhite adds aesthetic appeal to gardens, patios, and indoor spaces.
- Fragrance: The blooms emit a distinctive sweet fragrance that can enhance the sensory experience of any environment.
- Forces Easily: Paperwhite can be "forced" to bloom indoors during winter, providing a splash of color during the darker months.
- Low Maintenance: The plant generally requires very little care once established, requiring only basic watering and minimal fertilizing.
- Fast Growing: Paperwhite bulbs can sprout and bloom within a few weeks, offering quick satisfaction from planting to flowering.
- Pest Resistant: Narcissus papyraceus 'Ziva' is naturally resistant to many pests, reducing the need for chemical control methods.
- Symbolism and Gift Giving: Often associated with rebirth and new beginnings, Paperwhite makes a thoughtful gift for various occasions.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Papermaking: The fibrous leaves of 'Ziva' can be used in the papermaking process to create a unique, textured handmade paper.
- Fabric dyeing: The flowers of 'Ziva' can be used to naturally dye fabrics, yielding soft yellow hues.
- Art Supplies: Pressed flowers from the 'Ziva' can be used to adorn greeting cards or to create botanical art pieces.
- Fragrance Extraction: The sweet scent of 'Ziva' flowers can be infused into oils or waters to make natural perfumes or room sprays.
- Photography: The striking white blooms are often used by photographers as subjects for botanical photography due to their aesthetic appeal.
- Educational Tool: The growth cycle of 'Ziva' can be used for educational purposes, demonstrating bulb growth and flowering to students.
- Culinary Decoration: Although not edible, the flowers can serve as ornamental decorations for plating in high-end culinary presentations.
- Scented Sachets: Dried 'Ziva' flowers can be used to create scented sachets that freshen up drawers and closets.
- Wedding Decor: With their elegant appearance, 'Ziva' flowers are used in wedding bouquets, centerpieces, and venue decorations.
- Crafting: The long, sturdy stems of 'Ziva' can be incorporated into wreaths, garlands, or other craft projects for a natural touch.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Paperwhite is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Paperwhite is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Rebirth and New Beginnings: The Narcissus papyraceus 'Ziva', commonly known as Paperwhite, typically blooms in late winter to early spring, symbolizing the end of winter and the emergence of new life.
- Hope and Healing: Paperwhites are often associated with hope due to their resilience and ability to bloom even in colder months, offering a reminder of brightness and recovery during challenging times.
- Purity and Innocence: The Paperwhite’s delicate white flowers are frequently connected with themes of purity and innocence, echoing its clean, unblemished appearance.
- Self-Admiration and Vanity: Named after the Greek myth of Narcissus, who was enamored with his own reflection, Paperwhites can represent self-love and, in the negative aspect, vanity or self-obsession.
WaterPaperwhites, including Narcissus papyraceus 'Ziva', should be watered thoroughly whenever the top inch of soil begins to dry out. Ideally, provide them with half a gallon of water every one to two weeks, adjusting for environmental conditions. During active growth, keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. After the blooming period, gradually reduce watering to allow the plant to enter dormancy. Always use lukewarm water to avoid shocking the plant's roots.
LightPaperwhites, such as Narcissus papyraceus 'Ziva', thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. A south-facing window that provides plenty of light without direct sun is ideal. Avoid placing them in locations with harsh, direct sunlight, which can scorch their leaves.
TemperaturePaperwhites like Narcissus papyraceus 'Ziva' prefer cooler temperatures, ideally between 50 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth. They can tolerate temperatures as low as the upper 30s but should not be exposed to freezing conditions. Keeping them in a cool room will also help prolong the bloom time.
PruningPruning paperwhites, such as Narcissus papyraceus 'Ziva', involves removing spent flowers after blooming to prevent seed formation. Prune back the foliage only after it turns yellow and begins to die back naturally, typically a few weeks after flowering. This helps divert the plant's energy into bulb development for the next season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilPaperwhites, which Narcissus papyraceus 'Ziva' is commonly known as, thrive in well-draining potting soil with added perlite or sand for improved drainage. They prefer a soil pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. A general-purpose potting mix works fine, making sure that it's loose and has good drainage to prevent bulb rot.
RepottingPaperwhites typically do not require frequent repotting. They should be repotted after blooming if they outgrow their current container or every three to four years to provide fresh soil. After flowering, it is typical to discard the bulbs or plant them outdoors.
Humidity & MistingPaperwhites prefer average home humidity levels. They do not have specific high humidity requirements; however, maintaining a moderate humidity level around 40-50% is conducive to their health and flowering.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Paperwhites in bright, indirect light indoors and keep soil moderately moist.
Outdoor
Plant outdoor Paperwhites in sunny spot, with well-draining soil in fall.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cyclePaperwhite 'Ziva' begins its life cycle when a bulb, the underground storage organ, is planted in soil or stones with water. The bulb then sends out roots and a shoot that develops into a flower stalk. This shoot grows and forms clusters of fragrant, white blooms typically during the winter months, as Paperwhites are famous for blooming indoors out of their natural season. After flowering, the plant enters a period of dormancy where the leaves yellow and wither away as the bulb stores energy for the next growing cycle. During the dormant phase, the bulb should be kept dry and cool to simulate natural conditions. In the following growing season, the bulb can be repotted or replanted, and the cycle repeats with new growth emerging from the stored nutrients in the bulb.
PropogationPropogation time
Late Summer to Early Fall
The Narcissus papyraceus 'Ziva', commonly known as Paperwhite, is best propagated through division of bulbs, which is a straightforward and widely adopted method. The best time for propagation is after the plant has finished flowering and the foliage has died back, usually in late spring or early summer. To propagate, gently lift the clump of bulbs out of the ground using a trowel or garden fork, taking care not to damage the bulbs. The clump can then be gently pulled apart to separate the individual bulbs, which have naturally multiplied. Replant the bulbs immediately at a depth of about 5 to 6 inches (12.7 to 15.24 centimeters), spacing them about 4 to 5 inches (10.16 to 12.7 centimeters) apart, and water them in well. This method ensures genetic consistency and is typically less stressful for the plants, leading to a higher success rate in the establishment of new Paperwhites.
