Perennial
Paperwhite Narcissus
Narcissus papyraceus
Varieties We Carry
StandardNarcissus papyraceus
Sizes & Pricing
Per BulbFrom$2.00
Fresh this week. Last restocked Mar 11.
LightFull Sun, Part Sun
WaterModerate
Mature size12-18 inches × 6-8 inches
About Paperwhite Narcissus
Paperwhite Narcissus (Narcissus papyraceus) is a bulbous perennial native to the Mediterranean region, producing clusters of pure white, intensely fragrant flowers on slender green stems above strap-like foliage. One of the few narcissus that does not require a cold dormancy period, it is well suited to mild-winter regions and is popular for forcing into bloom indoors. The heady, sweet fragrance has made it a fixture in cut flower arrangements and winter holiday displays. Starting at $2.00.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Winter
- Flower Color
- White
- Growth Rate
- Moderate
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Soil
- Sandy, Loam, Well-drained
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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Seasonal care
Bloom season. New foliage emerges. Good planting window.
Active growing season.
Foliage may begin to change or drop. Ideal planting window.
Bloom season. Dormant — drops foliage.
Care essentials
Light
Plant paperwhite narcissus in full sun to part sun; in NE Florida they bloom during the short, mild winter so intense heat is not a concern during the active growing period. Choose a well-drained, open site that receives at least 6 hours of winter sun for best flowering.
Water
Water well after planting in fall and keep soil uniformly moist through the blooming period. After flowers fade, continue watering as foliage finishes; allow to dry gradually as leaves yellow and die back naturally—do not cut foliage prematurely.
Soil & Fertilizer
Paperwhites thrive in well-drained sandy or loamy Florida soil amended with compost. Plant bulbs in fall (October–November) at 2–3 times their depth. Apply a low-nitrogen bulb fertilizer at planting and again when foliage emerges. Re-bloom in subsequent years may be inconsistent in zone 9b—treat as an annual or replant fresh bulbs each fall.
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Common questions
Is Paperwhite Narcissus a good plant for St. Augustine?
Paperwhite Narcissus is a perennial for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 12-18 inches × 6-8 inches.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.