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.
Light
Full Sun
Water
Moderate
Difficulty
Moderate
Humidity
Low
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
Large, velvety, solid crimson flowers and long, strap-shaped, deep green leaves that are smooth and unpatterned.
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
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
Large, ruffled, snowy white blossoms with subtle lime-green throats, complemented by long, arching, strap-shaped leaves of a uniform, glossy dark green.
Picasso
Snow-white blooms with a delicate crimson-red picotee edge and lime-green throat, paired with long, solid green, strap-shaped leaves.