Hippeastrum x hybridum or Amaryllis

Care of the bulbous plant Hippeastrum x hybridum or Amaryllis

The genus Hippeastrum, family Amaryllidaceae, includes 90 species and numerous hybrids of bulbous plants native to Mexico, Central and South America. Some species and hybrids are: Hippeastrum x hybridum, Hippeastrum vittatum, Hippeastrum striatum, Hippeastrum correiense, Hippeastrum evansiae, Hippeastrum papilio, Hippeastrum pardinum.

Common name: Amaryllis. This hybrid is native to South America.

They are perennial bulbous plants that reach 90 cm (35.43") in height. The large bulb is up to 15 cm (5.9") in diameter. The long, curved, ribbed linear leaves are glossy green. The spectacular, large flowers appear on a long flower stalk, are trumpeted in shape, and can be red, white, or multi-colored, depending on the variety. They bloom only once in spring or early summer.

They are used in flower beds and borders, in pots for patios, terraces and balconies and as a houseplant and greenhouse.

Hippeastrum x hybridum needs full sun or semi-shade exposure. They do not resist frost.

The soil can be a mixture of garden soil, peat, coarse sand, and organic matter. Plant the bulbs in late winter.

Water moderately, waiting until the substrate is almost dry. Do not water when the leaves turn yellow. Bulbs can be left buried for the winter (do not water).

Fertilize with mineral fertilizer every 2 weeks in spring and summer.

They do not need pruning.

They are sensitive plants to excessive watering that can rot the bulb.

They are propagated from seeds sown in spring and by division of bulblets during the dormant period.