Can Paperwhites Be Left in the Ground Over Winter?

Warning

• Paperwhite bulbs that freeze in the ground do not live through the winter. This subtropical flower originates from the Mediterranean area and needs mild winter weather to survive. The bulbs are damaged when the temperature falls below 35 degrees Fahrenheit.

Time Frame

• Paperwhites produce blossoms in December and January. Outdoor paperwhite flowers last up to 100 days in mild winter climates.

Considerations

• Paperwhite's natural life cycle begins in the fall with leaf growth. The bulbs produce flowers in the cool winter months. These flowers store up energy in the spring and go dormant in the late spring. This growing cycle coincides with the rainy, cool season in the Mediterranean area.

Significance

• Paperwhites grow throughout the winter in hardiness zones nine through 11 without winter mulch. In zone eight, spread mulch around the paperwhite to protect the subtropical plant from cold temperature.