Narcissus 'Ziva': The Ultimate Paperwhite for Forcing

Narcissus papyraceus 'Ziva': Paperwhite Perfection

If you want foolproof winter blooms indoors, 'Ziva' is the paperwhite cultivar to choose. Selected for its **extra-early, uniform flowering** (just 2–3 weeks from planting), pure white blossoms, and strong musky fragrance, 'Ziva' has become the standard for holiday forcing. Its tall, sturdy stems (16–18 in.) hold clusters of 10–15 flowers that brighten the darkest days.

Key Characteristics

• Flower: 10–15 per stem, 1.5 in. diameter; **pure white**; cup very shallow; **strong musky-sweet fragrance**.
• Stem: 16–18 in. tall, sturdy, blue-green.
• Foliage: Flat, blue-green, 12–16 in.
• Bloom time (forced): **2–3 weeks after planting**.
• Natural bloom: Late winter/early spring (zones 8–10).
• Hardiness: Tender; zones 8–10 outdoors. Grown as annual/forced elsewhere.
• Division: 8 (Tazetta – Paperwhite).

Forcing Instructions (Indoor Winter Bloom)

1. Timing: Plant anytime October–January for winter blooms.
2. Container: Shallow bowl (3–4 in. deep) with drainage; or pebbles/water (no soil).
3. Medium: Potting mix, or pebbles/marbles/glass beads.
4. Planting: Place bulbs shoulder-to-shoulder, pointed end up; cover ½–⅔ with medium (tips visible).
5. Water: Water thoroughly (soil) or maintain water level at bulb base (pebbles).
6. Rooting: **Cool (50–60°F), dark** for 1–2 weeks until roots emerge and shoots 1–2 in.
7. Growing: Move to **bright, cool (60–65°F)** location. Rotate for straight stems.
8. Bloom: Flowers appear in 2–3 weeks total. Cool temps prolong bloom.
9. Aftercare: Discard (forced bulbs rarely rebloom) or plant outdoors in zones 8–10.

Outdoor Culture (Zones 8–10)

• Plant autumn, 4–6 in. deep, 3–4 in. apart.
• Full sun to part shade; well-drained soil.
• Naturalizes in warm climates.

Care Notes

• No cold period required (unlike most daffodils).
• Tall stems may need support (stakes, twine).
• Fragrance is strong—site accordingly (some find it overwhelming).
• All parts toxic; keep from pets/children.

Pests and Diseases

• Bulb fly, nematodes, scale mite, slugs.
• Basal rot, fungal rots (avoid overwatering).
• Viruses (yellow stripe).
• Deer/rodent resistant.

Quick Reference

Trait	Details
Height	1–3 ft (forced)
Growth Habit	Clumps
Growth Pace	Moderate
Light	Full Sun to Part Shade
Moisture	Medium
Maintenance	Low
Bloom Time	Winter (forced), Spring (outdoor)
Flower Color	White
Fragrance	Strong, Musky
Forcing Time	2–3 weeks
Deer Resistant	Yes