Amaryllis
November 5, 2023
Hailing from Central and South America, amaryllis (Hippeastrum spp.) are some of the most popular plants to grow during the holiday season. There are several different ways to buy amaryllis:
Waxed Amaryllis
These bulbs have been covered in a decorative wax, which also protects them from desiccating. So easy, just place them in a brightly lit location – no water or soil required! Multiple wax colours are available, including with a glittery finish. They are also available with either red or white flowers. Makes an excellent gift!
After flowering, the bulbs can be removed from the wax and potted up if desired, to be grown on for next year.
Amaryllis Kits
These kits come with everything you need to start growing an amaryllis: bulb, plastic pot, and potting mix. Plants will flower after about 6-8 weeks at room temperature. Available in several colours.
Packaged Named Varieties
If you want specific named varieties, you can buy them as packaged bulbs. For these, you will need to purchase a pot and potting mix separately (use a pot 1 inch wider than the bulb diameter with drainage holes, and Pro-Mix Tropical Plant Mix). The following varieties are available:
Barbados
Charisma
Cupid
Elvas
Exotic Star
Nymph
Papilio
Red Lion
Rilona
Samba
Santiago
Strong King