Paperwhites, The Perfect Winter Blossom
Ancient Chinese gardens used representations of nature rather than re-creations of nature. A single well placed large stone might represent their version of the majestic Grand Teton. Paperwhites in full bloom inside your home represent untouched fields of snow with the sun shining upon it.
Well, that might be a bit of a reach, but Paperwhites, technically known as Narcissus papyraeus 'Ziva' are creamy white, have delicate yellow centers and bloom as the virgin snow is creating our gorgeous winter landscape. Fragrant blossoms atop vertical stems are a fresh, contemporary alternative to traditional Christmas arrangements. They are my favorites to ring in the New Year, once all the red and green has faded away.
Narcissus is the botanical name for daffodils, a favorite early spring bulb type plant with 13,000 varieties. The Paperwhite variety is perfect for winter because they can be "forced", meaning you can grow them indoors, either with potting soil or small stones in water, with blooms appearing in just 3-6 weeks. Growing them in soil takes a little longer and I have found them to be a bit sturdier. But I also love the look of planting them in a clear vase or an interesting container with stones or glass pebbles. And staking them with willow branches and twine is a great touch. Either way, you basically lay down a base of soil or stones, place bulbs on top, lay down more of your soil or stones up to the top of the bulb leaving the tip exposed, add water - done.
If you want to try these winter wonders in your mountain home, or outside in your warm zone 9 or 10 garden, click on the first photo below for a Plant Profile with details on growing. For Teton County residents, Twigs has bulbs in stock now, and will have plants later for the procrastinators!
Above photos courtesy of John Scheepers, Inc.
