Chinese sacred lily - Narcissus tazetta (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

Chinese sacred lily

Also known as: Cream narcissus, Paperwhite

Chinese sacred lily (Narcissus tazetta) is an ornamental perennial plant. The chinese sacred lily notably grows from a bulb and is native to the Mediterranean region and grown throughout the world. It is a commercial source of essential oil in France.

Scientific classification

Species

Chinese sacred lily (Narcissus tazetta)

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Toxic to Human & Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Harvest Time

30 cm to 80 cm

Plant Height

8 cm

Spread

Green, Blue

Leaf Color

2.5 cm to 8 cm

Flower Size

White, Yellow

Flower Color

Summer dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Images of Chinese sacred lily

Distribution of Chinese sacred lily

Distribution Map

Chinese sacred lily is native to the Mediterranean and subtropical Asia, growing in fields, meadows, and other damp places. It has been introduced in the US, Australia, and other subtropical and temperate Asian countries.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Fields, meadows, garigue, damp places

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Chinese sacred lily is a popular choice for sunny areas of flower gardens, as they quickly bloom with lightly scented, multi-headed flowers earlier in the season than many other plants. It is often planted along with Blue star, which will take its turn to bloom after chinese sacred lily fades.

Symbolism

Regard, Unrequited Love, Respect

Name Story

Chinese sacred lily: In China, the bulbs of these flowers had a century of association with New Year celebrations. As this plant represents the symbolic meaning of sacred, it is then called the Chinese sacred lily.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Chinese sacred lily, including the following common varieties :

Chinese sacred lily 'Erlicheer'Chinese sacred lily 'Grand Soleil d'Or'Chinese sacred lily 'Canaliculatus'Chinese sacred lily 'Minnow'Chinese sacred lily 'Geranium'Chinese sacred lily 'Cragford'

Toxicity

All parts of chinese sacred lily are poisonous to humans, with bulbs being the most toxic, causing symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and cardiac arrhythmias upon ingestion. Cats and dogs are also at risk; ingestion leads to gastrointestinal upset and potential cardiac issues. Prompt veterinary care is crucial for pets if poisoning is suspected.

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Quickly Identify Chinese sacred lily

Fragrant flowers with white spreading perianth segments and a yellow corona.

Linear, flat leaves forming a lush backdrop for snowy blooms.

Perianth segments tubular at the base, broad ovate, and incurving.

Yellow cup-shaped corona less than an inch (2.5 cm) long and wide.

Basal, strap-like leaves with a keeled appearance and bluish-green glaucous hue.

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Care Guide for Chinese sacred lily

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Potting Mix, Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Chinese sacred lily prefers moderately moist soil, needing weekly watering to prevent waterlogging. As an herbaceous perennial, it thrives outdoors, benefiting from natural rainfall that aligns with its growth cycles, reflecting its Mediterranean coastal and wetland origins.

Fertilize: To optimize growth, fertilize chinese sacred lily with balanced nutrition during active growth, switching to high phosphorus before blooming. Apply every 4-6 weeks, adjusting for winter dormancy and spring growth. Use well-diluted solutions to prevent root burn, ensuring application around the base without foliage contact.

Pruning: Chinese sacred lily is valued for its fragrant blooms and slender leaves. Prune in early spring after flowering, cutting back spent stalks and removing dead foliage to improve air circulation and minimize disease risk. Effective pruning promotes healthier growth and more prolific blooms in subsequent seasons.

Propagation: Propagating chinese sacred lily is best done through division. Separate healthy bulbs with part of the basal plate, plant in well-draining soil with tips above the surface, and water regularly. This method promotes strong root systems, vigorous growth, and abundant blooms.

Repotting: Repot chinese sacred lily every 2-3 years in early spring for best results. Use a pot slightly larger to encourage growth and avoid excess moisture. After repotting, provide bright, indirect light and keep the soil slightly moist. Handle roots gently to preserve this cherished perennial.

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