The Story
Plant Bio
Hippeastrum x hortorum is a hybrid species known for its large, showy flowers that make it a popular choice for indoor and outdoor gardening.
This hybrid varies significantly in flower color and form, often featuring breathtaking large blooms that can attract attention in any setting.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Bulb Corm Tuber
Height
24 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
8, 9, 10
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average household humidity
Lifespan
Perennial with proper care
Native To
South America
Toxicity
Toxic if ingested; keep away from pets and children
Bloom period
Early spring – Late spring
In flower about 3 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck bulbs 2-3 inches deep in well-draining soil in a sunny spot.
- Mist the soil lightly to keep it moist but not waterlogged.
- Water sparingly until new shoots appear, then increase watering as growth progresses.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced houseplant fertilizer during the active growing season.
- Transplant if roots outgrow the pot, typically after 2-3 years.
- Allow leaves to die back naturally before storing bulbs for dormancy.
Pro Tip
Use a pot with good drainage and avoid overwatering to prevent rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Provide bright, indirect sunlight 🌞
- Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy 💧
- Feed monthly with a balanced fertilizer during growth
- Remove dead leaves to encourage healthy growth
- Repot every 2-3 years to refresh soil
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can cause bulb rot ❌
- Do not expose to direct, harsh sunlight that can scorch leaves
- Don’t forget to let the leaves die back before storing bulbs for dormancy
- Avoid neglecting pest issues early on
- Don’t transplant during dormancy
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Lift Store | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Propagate |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Amaryllis questions
What zones can Amaryllis grow in?
Amaryllis is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Amaryllis deer resistant?
Yes — Amaryllis is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Amaryllis bloom?
Amaryllis typically blooms in early spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Amaryllis need full sun?
Amaryllis does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Hippeastrum to compare
Aquaro Amaryllis
Hippeastrum x hybrida 'Aquaro'
Elvas Amaryllis
Hippeastrum x hybrida 'Elvas'
Johnson's Amaryllis
Hippeastrum x johnsonii
Flamboyant Amaryllis
Hippeastrum x flamboyant
Amaryllis Balance
Hippeastrum x hybrida 'Balance'
Amaryllis Red Glory
Hippeastrum x hybrida 'Red Glory'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Amaryllis with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.