bulb corm tuber

Giant Amaryllis

Hippeastrum x hybrida 'Giant Amadeus'

The Story

Plant Bio

Hippeastrum 'Giant Amadeus' is a tender bulbous perennial, typically grown as a houseplant for winter bloom. It produces thick, hollow flower scapes topped with huge, showy flowers before the strap-like leaves fully emerge.

This cultivar is a double-flowered type, featuring large, ruffled white petals that are heavily feathered and edged in raspberry red. Each stem can produce multiple impressive blooms.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesThe Giant Amadeus offers spectacular, large red blooms that brighten any garden or indoor space, creating a stunning visual impact.
Practical UsesIts easy propagation and low-maintenance nature make it a favorite for both novice and experienced gardeners.
Ecological BenefitsProvides nectar for pollinators like hummingbirds and bees, supporting local biodiversity.
SpeciesHippeastrum x hybridaAmaryllis

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

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial in suitable climates

Native To

South America

Toxicity

Toxic to pets and humans if ingested

Bloom period

Early spring – Mid-spring

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In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck bulbs 2-3 inches deep in well-draining soil in a sunny spot.
  2. Water sparingly until shoots emerge, then keep soil moist but not soggy.
  3. Mist leaves regularly to increase humidity during active growth.
  4. Fertilize monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer during spring and summer.
  5. Transplant after foliage dies back, usually in fall or early winter.
  6. Allow bulbs to rest in dry, cool conditions for 8-10 weeks after blooming.

Pro Tip

Use a pot with good drainage and avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water when the top inch of soil feels dry 🌱
  • Provide bright, indirect sunlight for optimal growth
  • Fertilize monthly during active growth season
  • Remove spent flowers to encourage new blooms
  • Allow leaves to yellow naturally before resting period

Don't

  • Overwater during dormancy ❌
  • Expose to direct, harsh sunlight in summer
  • Skip resting period after flowering
  • Use heavy, poorly draining soil ❌
  • Neglect pest monitoring

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Plant
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid flower borderElegant container displayBright accent in perennial beds

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Caladiums Begonias Impatiens

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Giant Amaryllis questions

What zones can Giant Amaryllis grow in?

Giant 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 Giant Amaryllis deer resistant?

Yes — Giant Amaryllis is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Giant Amaryllis bloom?

Giant Amaryllis typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Giant Amaryllis need full sun?

Giant Amaryllis does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Keep exploring

Grow Giant 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.