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Narcissus 'Chinese Sacred Lily' (Paperwhite narcissus, Daffodil)

Narcissus 'Chinese Sacred Lily' Photo/Illustration: Susan Kahn



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Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Botanical Name: Narcissus 'Chinese Sacred Lily' nar-SIS-us Common Name: Paperwhite narcissus, Daffodil Synonyms: N. tazetta var. orientalis 'Chinese Sacred Lily' , N. chinensis Genus: Narcissus
This tender paperwhite is well-suited to forcing, blooming 3 to 5 weeks after planting.  Each 14- to 16-inch stem brings forth 5 to 10 white flowers with golden-yellow centers exuding a delicate fragrance. It may require staking.
 Care: Grow in average, well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade (see individual species for specific requirements). In autumn, plant bulbs from 1.5 times to 5 times the bulbs' height (3 inches or more in cold climates). Under glass, grow in 1 part grit and 2 parts soil mix. Deadhead seed heads (except those of species, for dispersal) and allow leaves to photosynthesize for 6 weeks before cutting back, including plantings in turf. Lift and divide clumps if they become overcrowded or perform poorly. Bulbs may be forced in autumn in a cold frame; plant with tops visible, keep moist, and when rooted, move to a cool greenhouse (less than 64°F).
 Propagation: Separate bulbs and replant in early summer or early fall.
 Problems: Narcissus bulb fly, narcissus nematode, bulb scale mite, slugs, narcissus basal rot, other fungal infections, narcissus yellow stripe virus, and other viruses.
Height 1 ft. to 3 ft.
Growth Habit Clumps
Growth Pace Moderate Grower
Light Full Sun to Part Shade
Maintenance Low
Tolerance Deer Tolerant;Frost Tolerant
Characteristics Fragrant Flowers; Showy Flowers
Bloom Time Spring; Winter
Flower Color White Flower; Yellow Flower
Uses Beds and Borders, Container, Cut Flower, Indoor Plant, Specimen Plant/ Focal Point, Suitable as Annual
Style Cottage Garden, Formal Garden
Seasonal Interest Winter Interest, Spring Interest
Type Bulbs

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