Commonly known as amaryllis, hippeastrum bulbs are hugely popular gifts for Christmas. There really is no question as to why increasing numbers are choosing the amaryllis as a Christmas gift, as their magnificent and showy blooms flower year after year, making fantastic houseplants.
Growing amaryllis is really simple and it is very rewarding when you see their blooms returning each year. Amaryllis bulbs are incredibly tender, so they are best grown indoors for frost free cultivation.
Growing Amaryllis indoors
Plant Amaryllis between October and January, they will generally flower within six to ten weeks of planting.
• Grow amaryllis in a pot only slightly bigger than the bulb itself. Use multi-purpose compost and plant the bulb so that about a third remains above the compost surface.
• Water the compost lightly from the top and place in a warm, bright and draught-free position at a temperature of about 20°C (68°F).
• Water sparingly as the amaryllis bulb starts to grow, keeping the compost moist but not allowing water to collect in the saucer.
• Turning the pot regularly will prevent the flower stem bending towards the light.
• As soon as the flowers start to open, move amaryllis plants to a cooler position to prolong the flowering period.
Care for Amaryllis
Once amaryllis flowers have faded, its best to cut the whole stem off as close to the base as possible. Make sure you feed and water amaryllis bulbs with a balanced fertiliser every few weeks to enable them to build up strength for next year. They need plenty of light too as this helps the leaves generate energy that is stored in the bulb. You can plant amaryllis outside for the summer once all risk of frost has passed, placing them in a semi-shaded position away from intense sunlight.
Our favourite is the Amaryllis splash Christmas gift. Our new ‘Splash’ reaches a maximum of 50cm (20in) – which is a demure height in the world of amaryllis, but tall enough to impress, and strong enough to stand straight with no need for support. Why not treat your loved ones this Christmas with this wonderful house-plant, a gift that will well and truly keep on giving.
Do you have any photos? Then we would love to see them. You can share your treasured plants with us and our gardening community on Facebook and Twitter.
Last Updated on June 20, 2024 by Thompson & Morgan Horticultural Team
Terri works in the e-commerce marketing department assisting the busy web team. Terri manages our blog and social media pages here at Thompson & Morgan and is dedicated to providing useful advice to our gardeners. Terri is new to gardening and keen to develop her horticultural knowledge.