Few flowers brighten the colder months like Ziva Paperwhites. With clusters of pure white, star-shaped blooms and a fragrance that fills the room, these narcissus are favorites for holiday centerpieces, winter windowsills, and early spring gardens in warm climates. Easy to grow indoors without soil, they are one of the simplest and most rewarding bulbs for both new and experienced gardeners.

Planting Indoors

Ziva Paperwhites are unique among spring bulbs because they do not require a chilling period. This makes them perfect for forcing indoors during the holiday season. Place the bulbs in a shallow dish or bowl filled with pebbles, nestling them just deep enough to hold them upright. Add water until it reaches just below the base of the bulbs but does not cover them. Within days roots will form and green shoots will soon appear, followed by fragrant blooms in four to six weeks.

You can also plant Ziva Paperwhites in containers with potting mix. Use a well-drained soil, place bulbs close together for a full display, and water lightly. Whether grown in pebbles or soil, keep them in a bright, cool room until buds form, then move them into more direct light as they start to flower.

Planting Outdoors in Warm Climates

In regions with mild winters (zones 8–10), Ziva Paperwhites can be planted directly into garden beds or containers outdoors. Plant bulbs three to four inches deep in well-drained soil and space them a few inches apart. They will bloom naturally in late winter or early spring, bringing a fresh burst of white flowers to the garden when little else is in bloom.

Creating Holiday Displays

One of the most popular ways to enjoy Ziva Paperwhites is in seasonal displays. Start by selecting a container that matches your décor—glass vases, ceramic bowls, or rustic baskets all work beautifully. Fill the bottom with a layer of pebbles, glass beads, or even moss for a decorative base. Arrange the bulbs close together on top, then add enough water so it just reaches the bottom of the bulbs. As they grow, you can tuck in evergreen sprigs, holly berries, or pinecones around the base for a festive touch.

For a staggered display, plant bulbs every two weeks starting in late fall. This way, new blooms will open just as earlier plantings fade, giving you continuous flowers throughout the holidays and beyond.

Caring for Paperwhites in Bloom

Once Paperwhites begin to flower, they thrive best in bright light and cooler indoor temperatures. If the stems begin to stretch, move the container to a cooler location or rotate it daily to encourage upright growth. Adding support with decorative twigs or small stakes tied with ribbon can also help keep taller stems standing straight.

After blooming, Ziva Paperwhites are usually treated as annuals indoors. While the bulbs can sometimes be replanted outdoors in warm climates, most indoor-forced bulbs are best replaced the following year for reliable flowering.