The Story
Plant Bio
This plant is known for its large, showy flowers and is often forced to bloom indoors during winter.
Amaryllis hybrids are popular as holiday gifts and are commonly grown in pots.
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
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
South America
Toxicity
Toxic to humans and pets if ingested
Planting
How to Grow
- Plant bulbs in well-draining soil in late summer or early fall.
- Tuck bulbs 2-3 inches deep with pointed end up.
- Water sparingly until shoots appear, then keep soil moist.
- Place in bright, indirect sunlight for optimal growth.
- Allow foliage to die back naturally after blooming, then reduce watering.
- Store bulbs in a cool, dry place during dormancy for replanting.
Pro Tip
Use a balanced fertilizer during active growth for vibrant blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water when the top inch of soil feels dry 💧
- Provide bright, indirect sunlight ☀️
- Use well-draining soil to prevent rot
- Apply fertilizer during the growing season
- Allow foliage to naturally die back after flowering
Don't
- Overwater bulbs, risking rot ❌
- Expose to direct harsh sunlight in hot climates
- Skip dormancy period, which is vital for health
- Plant too deep or too shallow
- Use heavy clay soil without amendments
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
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.

