Amaryllis are bulbs of the genus Hippeastrum that are native to tropical and subtropical areas of the Americas. Some species grow in rock crevices in savannas that have distinct dry and wet seasons; others grow in high plateau regions that have cool weather for most of the year.
Seeds will germinate in water, once true leaf forms it can be shifted to soil
Common name:Â Hippeastrum
Color:Â The usual color is white with crimson veins, but pink or purple also occur naturally.
Bloom time:Â Late December until the end of June.
Height:Â 24 in/60 cm.
Difficulty level:Â Easy
Planting & Care
Amaryllis like their soil rich, but exceptionally well-drained, so ideally create a mix from one part well-rotted manure, one part horticultural grit or sand, and two parts leaf mould. Two-thirds good compost mixed with one-third grit also does fine.
Sunlight:Â Full sun
Soil:Â Well-drained soil.
Water:Â Keep soil moist throughout the growing season.
Temprature: 28-45°C
Fertilizer:Â Apply any organic fertilizer.
Harvesting:Â After the amaryllis has stopped flowering, it can be made to flower again. Cut the old flowers from the stem after flowering, and when the stem starts to sag, cut it back to the top of the bulb. Continue to water and fertilize as normal all summer, or for at least 5-6 months, allowing the leaves to fully develop and grow. When the leaves begin to yellow, which normally occurs in the early fall, cut the leaves back to about 2 inches from the top of the bulb and remove the bulb from the soil. Clean the bulb and place it in a cool (40-50 deg. F), dark place such as the crisper of your refrigerator for a minimum of 6 weeks. Caution: Do not store amaryllis bulbs in a refrigerator that contains apples, this will sterilize the bulbs. Store the bulbs for a minimum of 6 weeks.
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