Amaryllis

Amaryllis is a popular and spectacular flowering bulb, often grown as a houseplant, especially for its large, showy blooms during the winter months. While the name “amaryllis” is commonly used in the horticultural trade, most of the plants sold under this name are actually from the genus Hippeastrum, a close relative native to South America. The “true” Amaryllis genus contains only two species from South Africa. For the purpose of indoor plant care, “amaryllis” almost always refers to Hippeastrum.

Key Characteristics

• Flowers: The most striking feature is the large, trumpet-shaped flowers, which can be up to 10 inches in diameter. They come in a wide array of colors, including red, white, pink, orange, and various bicolors or striped patterns.
• Growth Habit: A single, thick, leafless flower stalk emerges from a large, bulbous base. It can grow to a height of 1 to 2 feet before blooming. After the flowers fade, long, strap-like, green leaves grow from the bulb.
• Blooming: Amaryllis bulbs are often “forced” to bloom out of season, typically in late autumn or winter. They will generally bloom about 6 to 8 weeks after planting.

Growing and Care

Amaryllis is a relatively easy plant to grow and can be re-bloomed year after year with proper care.

• Planting:
  • Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the bulb, with good drainage holes.
  • Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a cactus or succulent mix, or a general-purpose potting mix with added perlite or grit.
  • Plant the bulb with its shoulders above the soil line, so about one-third of the bulb is exposed. This is crucial for preventing bulb rot.
  • Press the soil down firmly around the bulb to secure it.
• Light: Place the potted bulb in a warm, bright location with indirect light. Direct sunlight can be too harsh for a developing plant. Once the flowers appear, you can move the plant to a cooler spot to help the blooms last longer.
• Watering:
  • After planting, water sparingly until you see the flower stalk begin to emerge. This helps to prevent bulb rot.
  • Once the stalk appears, gradually increase watering, keeping the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
  • Water the soil directly, avoiding the top of the bulb.
• After Flowering:
  • After the flowers fade, cut the flower stalk back to about an inch above the bulb.
  • Do not cut the leaves! The leaves are essential for photosynthesis, which allows the bulb to store energy for the next year’s bloom.
  • Continue to water and fertilize the plant regularly throughout the spring and summer. You can move the plant outdoors to a sunny spot once the danger of frost has passed.
  • In late summer or early autumn, stop watering and feeding the plant. The leaves will begin to yellow and wither. This is the start of the plant’s dormant period. Cut off any yellowed leaves.
  • Store the potted bulb in a cool, dark, dry place for 6 to 12 weeks. Do not water during this time.
  • After this dormant period, you can repot the bulb in fresh soil and begin the cycle again.

Toxicity

All parts of the amaryllis plant, especially the bulb, are toxic if ingested by humans or pets. They contain toxic alkaloids that can cause severe symptoms. Keep the plant and its bulbs out of reach of children and animals.