Amaryllis flowers (Hippeastrum spp.) are stunning, bulbous plants known for their large, trumpet-shaped blooms and vibrant colors. Often associated with the holiday season, especially around Christmas and New Year’s, amaryllis are popular as indoor flowering plants due to their dramatic, showy flowers and relatively easy care. They are native to tropical and subtropical regions, particularly the Caribbean and South America, but are widely grown around the world.
When in season, we carry two stem Amaryllis for sale in 6″ pots.
Key Characteristics of Amaryllis Flowers:
Flowers
Amaryllis produces large, bold flowers that can be up to 8 inches across. The flowers are typically trumpet-shaped, with 6 petals that curve outward, creating a striking display.
The flowers come in a range of colors, including red, white, pink, orange, salmon, burgundy, and even bi-colored varieties. Some hybrids also have a ruffled edge or striped petals.
Multiple flowers can bloom from each stalk, often several blooms in a cluster. The flowering stalk can carry 2 to 4 flower stems.
Bulb
Amaryllis grows from a bulb, which is typically about 6-8 cm in diameter. These bulbs store the nutrients needed to produce the beautiful flowers and are sold either as bare bulbs or potted plants.
The bulbs are easy to store and care for, and with proper treatment, they can bloom again in subsequent years.
Height and Growth Habit
Amaryllis plants typically grow 12-24 inches tall, depending on the variety, with the flower stalk reaching higher than the leaves.
The leaves are long, narrow, and strap-like, emerging after the flowers, and can remain green for many months after blooming.
Bloom Time
Amaryllis bulbs are often forced into bloom during the winter months, especially around the holidays. Typically, a bulb will bloom 6-8 weeks after planting, making it ideal for winter celebrations.
In regions with mild winters or when grown outdoors in the right climate, amaryllis can bloom during early spring or even late winter.
Foliage
After the flowers bloom, long, green leaves will emerge, growing tall and strappy, which help the plant gather energy for future blooming. The leaves remain until the plant goes dormant in the summer, at which point the bulb enters a resting phase.
Care Tips for Amaryllis
Light
Amaryllis prefers bright, indirect light when grown indoors. It will thrive in a well-lit spot, such as a sunny windowsill, but should be protected from direct, harsh sunlight, which can burn the leaves. If growing outdoors in a suitable climate, amaryllis should be placed in a spot with full sun.
Soil
Amaryllis grows best in well-draining, light, fertile soil. A typical potting mix or bulb compost works well for indoor amaryllis. For outdoor planting (in climates where amaryllis is hardy), ensure the soil is well-drained and slightly acidic to neutral.
Watering
During the active growing and blooming phase, amaryllis needs regular watering. Keep the soil moist but not soggy—avoid letting the bulb sit in water, as this can cause rot.
Once blooming has finished and the plant enters its dormancy period (typically in late spring or summer), reduce watering to allow the plant to rest.
Fertilization
Amaryllis benefits from monthly fertilization during its growing season. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer or one specifically formulated for flowering plants.
After blooming, you can continue feeding the plant as it grows leaves, which helps build the bulb’s strength for next year’s bloom.
Temperature
Amaryllis thrives in moderate temperatures, typically between 60-70°F.
During its bloom period, it prefers temperatures on the warmer side of the range but can tolerate cooler conditions once flowering is complete. Amaryllis flowers can be damaged by temperatures below 50°F.
Potting and Planting
When planting an amaryllis bulb in a container, ensure the top third of the bulb remains above the soil surface. The bulb should not be buried too deeply.
If planting outdoors in areas where it is hardy (USDA zones 8-11), plant the bulb about 3-4 inches deep.
When planting multiple bulbs in a container, space them apart by at least 4-6 inches to allow ample room for growth.
Dormancy and Storage
After the amaryllis finishes blooming, the foliage will begin to yellow and die back. During this time, reduce watering and stop fertilizing.
Once the leaves die off, you can either cut back the foliage or allow it to naturally wither.
To encourage the bulb to bloom again, it needs a period of dormancy. Place the bulb in a cool, dark location for 6-8 weeks to simulate winter. After this resting period, begin watering again and return it to a warmer location to trigger new growth.
Growing Amaryllis Outdoors
In USDA zones 8-11, amaryllis can be planted outdoors, where it can be grown as a perennial. Here’s how to care for amaryllis in the garden:
- Plant amaryllis bulbs in the spring after the threat of frost has passed.
- Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil for optimal growth and flowering.
- Once the flowers have faded, the plant will produce strappy green leaves, which will continue to grow through the summer.
- Water regularly, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged.
- In the fall, the plant will naturally go dormant, and the leaves will die back. At this point, you can either leave the bulbs in the ground or dig them up to store indoors for the winter in cooler climates.
Common Varieties of Amaryllis
- ‘Red Lion’ – One of the most popular varieties, with large, red flowers.
- ‘Apple Blossom’ – Pink and white bi-colored flowers, with a soft, pastel look.
- ‘Exotic Star’ – A striking, white flower with red stripes and ruffled edges.
- ‘Minerva’ – Bright red with white edges, one of the more traditional varieties.
- ‘Snow White’ – A pure white variety with bold, elegant flowers.
Troubleshooting
Lack of Blooming. If an amaryllis doesn’t bloom, it could be due to insufficient sunlight, lack of dormancy, or inadequate fertilization. Ensure it gets enough light and rest time, and follow proper care during the growing season.
Yellowing Leaves. This is often a sign of overwatering or poor drainage. Ensure the bulb isn’t sitting in water, and reduce watering when the plant is resting.
Pests. Amaryllis can occasionally attract pests like aphids or mealybugs, especially when grown indoors. Check for signs of pests and treat them promptly with insecticidal soap.
Uses for Amaryllis Flowers:
Holiday Decor
Amaryllis flowers are often used as seasonal decorations due to their bold and festive colors, making them perfect for Christmas and New Year’s displays. They are often given as gifts or used in holiday centerpieces.
Indoor Plants:
Amaryllis makes a beautiful indoor plant. It’s often grown in containers and placed in homes to brighten up winter months with its large blooms.
Cut Flowers:
Amaryllis flowers are excellent as cut flowers and can last for up to 2 weeks in a vase. They’re often used in floral arrangements for their dramatic, long-lasting blooms.
Conclusion:
Amaryllis flowers are stunning, low-maintenance plants that reward gardeners with gorgeous, large blooms in a variety of striking colors. They are perfect for brightening indoor spaces during the winter months or as part of outdoor landscaping in warmer climates. With proper care, amaryllis bulbs can bloom year after year, providing a dazzling display of color and fragrance. Whether you’re growing them indoors in pots or outside in the garden, amaryllis is a beautiful and versatile flower that’s sure to impress.
If you have any questions, feel free to call/text us at (352) 735-8350, send us an email, or come by the nursery. Our hours are Monday-Friday 8-5 p.m.