What is the difference between amaryllis and Hippeastrum?

What is the difference between amaryllis and Hippeastrum?

To put it simply, the true Amaryllis is a bulb from South Africa with only one species in the genus (Amaryllis belladonna). By contrast, Hippeastrums* are from Central and South America with 90 species and over 600 cultivars in the genus – and these are the flowers commercially sold in the UK around Christmas.

How do you care for Hippeastrum?

Hippeastrums thrive in full sun or light shade. Ideally, place near a wall or fence so that they’re protected from strong winds, but getting plenty of sunlight. They are drought-hardy, able to survive on virtually no rainfall for a year or two, although flowering may be affected.

How do you look after an amaryllis Hippeastrum plant?

Amaryllis like a constant temperature of around 20 degrees C. Keep the pot in a warm room, in full light or outside in a sheltered area. Flowering usually will begin six to seven weeks after planting. Once the bulb is flowering remove the pot from direct sun to extend the life of the flower.

How do you care for a Hippeastrum hybrid?

Best planted in groups.

1. Plant Feed. Slow release feed in spring.
2. Watering. Allow soil to dry between thorough waterings.
3. Soil. Fertile, well-drained soil.
4. Basic Care Summary. Very easy to grow in virtually any location. Best in fertile, well-drained soil. Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.

How many times will an amaryllis bulb bloom?

With proper care, an amaryllis bulb will grow and bloom for decades. One grower claims his bulb has bloomed every year for 75 years! How often does an amaryllis bloom? The plant generally blooms once a year.

What is the lifespan of an amaryllis?

How many years will an amaryllis bulb bloom? With proper care, an amaryllis bulb will grow, bloom, and rebloom for decades. The average lifespan of a bulb is about 25 years, though it’s not unheard of for an heirloom amaryllis to be passed down through families for 50 years or more.

What is the best fertilizer for Hippeastrum?

The amaryllis requires a low-nitrogen fertilizer because a fertilizer with a high nitrogen concentration can hinder flower development and increase the growth of the plant’s foliage. It is best to use a 5-10-10 or 6-12-12 fertilizer for amaryllis plants.

Should I cut the leaves off my amaryllis?

If you cut off the leaves, you’re weakening your plant. You can cut off the stem if you want, but make sure you keep the leaves in place. Water the plant while it’s blooming and keep watering the plant when the bloom is done.

How do I get my amaryllis to bloom again?

Forcing Dormancy Let the leaves die back before cutting them off and do not water. After 10-12 weeks, move the bulb back into a bright, sunny place and begin watering and fertilizing once more. If your amaryllis has been well-cared for, you can expect to see flower development in 4-6 weeks.

How many years will an amaryllis bulb bloom?

75 years
How many years will an amaryllis bulb bloom? With proper care, an amaryllis bulb will grow and bloom for decades. One grower claims his bulb has bloomed every year for 75 years!

Can you grow amaryllis without soil?

Bulbs such as daffodils, tulips, amaryllis and lilies grown without soil brighten up any room and last longer than cut flowers. A clear glass vase, filled with pebbles and a little water is all you need, and it adds an attractive visual element to your home.

What month do amaryllis bloom?

Flowering Period: Late December until the end of June. Flowering time is 7-10 weeks. Larger bulbs produce more flowers. Always store un-planted bulbs in a cool place between 40-50 deg.