Choose an Amaryllis for Brilliant Exotic Flowers

Amaryllis is a beautiful flowering plant and it is a single species called Amaryllis belladonna; however, it is so closely related to the Hippeastrum genus which has more than 70 species that both these plants wallow in each other’s beauty. They are both from the Amaryllidaceae family and they both enjoy the same growing conditions. The name amaryllis is more widely used and therefore hippeastrums, growing happily in countless homes and gardens are often referred to as amaryllis. The amaryllis has become very popular as Christmas holiday season gifts.

Origin of the Amaryllis

The amaryllis, Amaryllis belladonna, is indigenous to South Africa and it is also known as Belladonna Lily or Naked Lady.

The hippeastrum originated from a much wider base stretching from Argentina to Mexico and into the Caribbean and nowadays it is found growing extensively in tropical countries as far flung as S.E. Asia.

Getting to Know an Amaryllis

The amaryllis and hippeastrum are two of the easiest bulbs to grow and with a little care and attention they can be successfully grown for more than one season. Also with staged plantings it is possible to have amaryllis and hippeastrum blooming as houseplants or outdoors in tropical gardens from November to May. These are bulbous plants: the bulbs are about 10-12 cm diameter so they are easy to handle. Each bulb may have 2-7 broad green leaves and they can grow from 30cm to 60cm. tall; they are about 3cm wide. As for spectacular blooms they are unsurpassed with some plants having as many as fifteen blooms in one season. Red, white and pink are the main colors available but there are also many mixed shades. The bulbs are tender and will not tolerate frost.

How to Grow an Amaryllis

• These bulbs can be planted indoors, and outdoors in tropical temperate areas, from October to April. Staged planting will give an extended blooming period which can last from December (Holiday Season) right through to mid summer.

• Selecting the best bulb is important. If possible check the bulb carefully for any signs of decay, mold or squishiness. These are tender bulbs but they should feel and smell healthy. Examining the bulb is not always possible as these bulbs are often sold prepacked with compost and a decorative flower-pot.

• Before planting soak the bulb in room temperature water for a few hours. This allows the roots to ingest some moisture becoming pliable and less likely to break while planting.

• Plant the bulb in mixed compost, half moss-peat and half grit. Leave about 1/3 of the bulb above the compost.

• Water thoroughly and place the pot in a 70 degrees Fahrenheit position.

• The stem will appear first followed by the leaves. A little water during this period is best and then increase the water supply and feed once a week.

When the plant is in full growth move it into a bright, well ventilated area and protect from draughts. The stem will grow rapidly and should begin to flower in less than 10 weeks, depending on conditions.

Ensure Repeat Amaryllis Blooms

Both of these plants are perennial and with a little care it is possible to have many seasons of spectacular blooms.

• Once flowering has finished remove the dead blooms and allow the stalk to die back. When it has softened cut it back to just above the compost.

• Continue to water the leaves and let them grow until they start to turn yellow then cut them away. Allow the bulb to dry out and store for 2 months.

Then replant the bulb in new compost just as if it were a brand new bulb and once again repeat the steps above to enjoy these tropical beauties for another season.

The amaryllis, with its spectacular blooms and wide variety of colors is an ideal choice for gardeners. Like the Bird of Paradise Plant and the Heliconia it can also provide vivid displays in cut flower arrangements.