What Is an Amaryllis?
Amaryllis plants are scientifically known as Hippeastrum species. The Amaryllis genus is native to South Africa, and is more commonly known as Amaryllis, belladonna lily, Jersey lily, naked lady, and even March lily because of it being popular for flowering in March. It is affectionately known as a lily because of its shape and growth habit. It is however, only related distantly to a true Lilium plant.
These stunning blooms are funnel-shaped and arranged in clusters, with each cluster stunting up to 12 floral features. With the proper care, this plant is able to bloom flowers for several years to come.
Amaryllis Care
How To Plant an Amaryllis Bulb
- A heavy pot is preferred
- Plant bulb pointy end up
- Use good potting mix soil
- Pack soil gently around bulb so that a third of the bulb is above the soil
- Do not use garden soil as it does not drain efficiently
- Place pot in an area that received bright, indirect sunlight
- Water sparingly until there is about 5cm growth
- Thereafter water regularly
- Turn pot every few days to encourage straight growth of flower stalks
- Keep pot out of direct sunlight
Watering Tips
The amazing thing about an amaryllis plant is that it is a bulb plant, this means that they flower seasonally. This means that they will bloom, then they will die off and flower again in the next flowering season. They are also prone to over watering. If they are over watered, the bulb will rot and the plant will not survive. If you see that your bulb’s growth has become stagnant, hold back on the water until you see signs of growth, then continue to water sparingly, do not drench the soil.
Amaryllis Flower Tips
Amaryllis plants are also known as ‘Naked Lady’, this is because of its flowering phases which occur when the foliage is dead. It does not do well in winters and does not do well with frost. It is poisonous and as a result it is advised to be kept away from children and pets.
If you would like to use fertilisers for your amaryllis plant, it should contain high levels of phosphorous and potassium, but low levels of nitrogen. Always use half the recommended strength of plant food. This plant enjoys cooler areas when in its flowering phases. You can also grow its bulb in water as floating flowers.
If taken care of properly your amaryllis bulb will bloom in its season for years to come. If you’re lucky, you may even experience your bulb develop an offspring form beside the mother bulb. These little ‘bulb-lings’ will eventually grow large enough to bloom on its own too!
If you received a beautiful amaryllis plant as a gift from NetFlorist, then you’re in luck! All you have to do is water regularly and allow it to get plenty of indirect sunlight. Then sit back and watch your marvellous amaryllis bloom the most spectacular flowers that is sure to light up any living space!
Want more flower tips? We have a post which tells you how to take care of your orchids as well as more arum lily tips. Visit our home page and explore the Rambling Rose for more gift ideas and tips!
