Watching an amaryllis bulb unfurl its first flower is one of December darkness's finest small experiences. With care the bulb reblooms year after year.
Origin and natural habitat
True amaryllis comes from South Africa, but what we grow as amaryllis is Hippeastrum from subtropical South America. The big bulbs were collected intensively in the 19th century and bred into today's giants.
Care
Light
Keep the bulb bright and evenly warm (20–22 °C) while buds open. Turn the pot daily so the stem grows straight.
Watering
Water sparingly until the stem appears, then gradually more during flowering. Never pour water into the bulb's neck — water the soil.
Soil and feeding
Plant in potting soil with one third of the bulb above the surface. After flowering: feed and keep growing, let the leaves recharge the bulb, then dry it off in autumn for an 8–10 week rest.
Common problems
Red patches on the stem are red blotch — cut away affected parts. No reblooming usually means the leaves were cut too early the previous summer. Long, skinny leaves indicate low light.
Good to know
A single bulb can carry blooms 25 cm across that last two weeks indoors. Toxic to cats and dogs.
