Amaryllis (Hippeastrum hortorum)
Care, watering, light and tips for Amaryllis on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Amaryllidaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Amaryllis
Hippeastrum hortorum, commonly known as amaryllis, is a bulbous plant celebrated for its large, showy, trumpet-shaped flowers that emerge from a sturdy stem. Its blooms, ranging in color from pure white to deep red, including pinks and bicolors, make it a spectacular focal point indoors, especially during winter. It is ideal for decorating living rooms or as a centerpiece, adding a touch of elegance and vibrant color.
Native range
South America, specifically in tropical and subtropical regions of Brazil, Peru, and Argentina.
Care tips
Place your amaryllis in a location with plenty of bright, indirect light; direct sunlight can scorch its leaves and flowers. Water moderately when the top layer of the potting mix feels dry to the touch, avoiding waterlogging which can rot the bulb. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a standard mix with some sand or perlite. A common mistake is overwatering before the flower stalk emerges, which can inhibit blooming.
How to save a dying Amaryllis
- Warning signs
- Yellow, soft leaves, soft or moldy bulb, no flowering after dormancy.
- First aid
- Remove plant from soil, inspect bulb. Cut soft or rotten parts with sterilized tool. Apply fungicide.
- What kills it
- Overwatering, especially during dormancy. Also, lack of a cool, dry resting period.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if the bulb still has firm, healthy parts. Recovery can be slow but possible.