The amaryllis (Hippeastrum) is a stunning flowering plant known for its big, bold blooms that can brighten up any space. With its tall, elegant stems and eye-catching flowers, it’s no wonder this plant has become a favorite for many gardeners and flower lovers. Whether you’re growing it indoors or outside, the amaryllis is a showstopper that’s surprisingly easy to care for.
Here’s everything you need to know to get started with this incredible plant.
Popular Amaryllis Varieties
- Red Lion (classic red blooms)
- Apple Blossom (soft pink and white flowers)
- Minerva (striking red and white petals)
Care
- Water: Amaryllis bulbs don’t like sitting in soggy soil. Water them sparingly at first, then once you see leaves and flowers beginning to grow, water more often. Keep the soil lightly moist but avoid drowning it. If you have more bulbs in one container, give them about 50% more water.
- Light: These plants love bright, indirect light (6-8h per day). A sunny windowsill is perfect for indoor amaryllis, but be sure to keep it out of direct, harsh sunlight, which can burn the leaves.
- Soil: Well-drained soil is a must! A mix of potting soil and sand works well. If you’re planting outdoors, make sure the soil drains quickly and doesn’t stay waterlogged.
- Temperature and Humidity: Amaryllis thrives in warm temperatures, typically between 65-75°F (18-24°C). Keep them indoors if it’s cold outside, as they don’t handle frost well. They also enjoy moderate humidity, so avoid overly dry or damp spots.
If you want to know how to repot Amaryllis the right way, check out our guide below!
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Planting & Growing
Planting & Growing Amaryllis is usually grown from bulbs. When planting, make sure the top third of the bulb sticks out of the soil. Water it lightly until you see growth, and then water more frequently as it starts to bloom. These plants can take anywhere from 6-10 weeks to flower after planting, so be patient—it’s worth the wait!
Pruning
Once the flowers start to fade, cut them off near the base, but leave the leaves intact. The leaves help the bulb gather energy for next year’s blooms. When the leaves turn yellow and start to die back, you can trim them away to keep the plant looking neat.
Common Pests
Frequently Asked Questions
What to do with amaryllis after flowering?
After the flowers fade, cut the stem back to just above the bulb once it droops. Keep watering and feeding it for 5-6 months to help the leaves grow.
Does amaryllis need full sun?
Amaryllis grows best with full sunlight but needs some shade during the hottest part of the day to avoid leaf damage. This also helps the flowers last longer.
How do you care for an amaryllis plant indoors?
Give it bright, indirect light with some morning sun and keep the soil slightly moist. A tall flower stalk will appear first, followed by flat leaves.
What is the lifespan of an amaryllis?
Amaryllis bulbs can bloom every year for up to 40 years if cared for properly. After flowering, trim the stems but leave the leaves to help it bloom again next year.