Ferns & Focus
Amaryllis
Flowering

Amaryllis

Hippeastrum spp.

Known for its spectacular, trumpet-shaped blooms, the Hippeastrum is a popular winter-flowering bulb that brings bright color to indoor spaces. Often mislabeled as 'Amaryllis', these South American natives produce large, bold flowers atop tall, sturdy stalks, making them an eye-catching centerpiece during the holidays and beyond. Give it a sunny spot, low humidity, and a planter that lets excess water drain freely.

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Light

Full Sun

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Water

Moderate

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Difficulty

Moderate

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Humidity

Low

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Pet Warning

Contains lycorine and other alkaloids. Highly toxic to cats and dogs, potentially causing vomiting, diarrhea, and tremors if bulbs or leaves are consumed.

Care Notes

Planting

Plant bulbs in a pot only slightly larger than the bulb itself, leaving the top third of the bulb exposed. Use a well-draining potting mix. Water sparingly until the first green sprout appears.

Blooming

Once growth begins, move to a bright, warm spot. Increase watering as the stalk grows, keeping the soil moist but not soggy. Turn the pot regularly to prevent the stalk from leaning toward the light.

After Blooming

When flowers fade, cut the stalks 2 inches above the bulb but do not cut the leaves. The leaves are essential for gathering energy for the next bloom cycle. Continue watering and fertilizing as normal.

Dormancy

In late summer, stop watering and let the leaves die back naturally. Store the bulb in its pot in a cool, dark place (50-55°F) for 8-10 weeks. To restart growth, move to a warm, sunny spot and resume watering.

Light

Give your amaryllis full sun conditions. Move it back from harsh sun if the leaves begin to scorch.

Water

Check the soil before watering, then water thoroughly and let the excess drain. Do not leave the planter standing in water.

Soil and Planter

Use Rich, well-draining potting soil with perlite or coarse sand. Choose a planter with drainage holes so excess water can escape.

Humidity and Temperature

Average indoor humidity is usually enough, and overly damp conditions are unnecessary. Keep it away from strong heating or cooling drafts.

Common Issues

Yellowing often starts when the potting mix stays wet for too long. Check the soil and drainage holes before adding more water.

In-Depth Care & Growth

Feeding & Soil

Fertilizer

Balanced liquid fertilizer or high-phosphorus bloom booster

Soil

Rich, well-draining potting soil with perlite or coarse sand

Physical Attributes

Mature Size

12-24 inches tall

Growth Rate

Fast

Propagation

Division of bulb offsets (bulblets) or starting from seed

Common Varieties

Red Lion

Red Lion

Large, velvety, solid crimson flowers and long, strap-shaped, deep green leaves that are smooth and unpatterned.

Apple Blossom

Apple Blossom

Long, strap-shaped, solid dark green leaves and large white flowers uniquely patterned with soft rose-pink blushes and a lime-green throat.

Minerva

Minerva

Large, star-shaped red flowers featuring a bold white starburst pattern and a lime-green throat, complemented by long, strap-like green leaves.

Christmas Gift

Christmas Gift

Large, ruffled, snowy white blossoms with subtle lime-green throats, complemented by long, arching, strap-shaped leaves of a uniform, glossy dark green.

Picasso

Picasso

Snow-white blooms with a delicate crimson-red picotee edge and lime-green throat, paired with long, solid green, strap-shaped leaves.