Hippeastrum
( hip - ee - AST - rum )
At-A-Glance Information
Also called Amaryllis, these perennial beauties grow from bulbs and need light shade in the warmest climates of their zone range. They will need regular waterings during their growth and bloom periods, and are available in single and double-bloom varieties. Flowers come in a range of colors, including reds, pinks, salmon, orange, cream-yellow, and white. Flowers can be striped, spotted, splashed and otherwise marked with contrasting colors. They bloom in springtime when grown outdoors in zones 13, 15-17, 21-24, H1 and H2. In zones 8, 9, 14, 18 and 20 it will need some shelter when grown outdoors. Otherwise, grow these plants indoors. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.
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Caring for Hippeastrum
Plant in fall in clumps in organically enriched well-draining soil. The bulb necks should be at the soil surface. Water thoroughly after planting and then keep soil barely moist until the leaves emerge. Increase watering during growth and bloom periods. Do not let the soil become soggy. Divide infrequently. If you are planting your Amaryllis in a container, fill your pot with well-draining rich, sandy potting mix amended with bonemeal or superphosphate. Plant 2 inches apart, and leave 2 inches between bulbs and the container walls. The upper half of the bulb should be above the soil surface. Pat soil down until it is firmed, and then keep soil barely moist until growth begins. Increase water at this time and ensure that the plant is getting fertilized. When flowers fade, cut off the stems. Continue watering and feeding until late in summertime, and then cut back watering. Allow leaves to dry and yellow, and then stop watering completely, allowing the plant to enter dormancy.
Propagation
Problems and Pests
Slugs and Snails
Gallery
Videos
A video all about growing camellias successfully
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Propagating camellias
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Resources
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Pages 360 -361, Hippeastrum
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