Amaryllis

Class

Monocotyledonae

Division

Magnoliophyta (Angiosperms)

Family

Amaryllidaceae

Order

Asparagales

Genus

Amaryllis

Species

belladonna

Description

A perennial bulbous geophyte with erect herbaceous stems bearing striking umbrella-shaped inflorescences composed of fragrant flowers with funnel-shaped corollas and petals that are often variegated and come in different shades depending on the variety, adding colour and vibrancy from late summer toautumn, before the appearance of the linear leaves, which are also highly decorative. Suitable for full sun, it requires well-drained soil and watering that prevents waterlogging.
Not to be confused with the species Hippeastrum (indoor variety).

Curiosities and special features

The elegance and high ornamental value of its inflorescences are highlighted by the botanical name itself: the genus derives from the Greek word ‘amarysso’, meaning ‘to sparkle’ or ‘to shine’, whilst the specific epithet ‘belladonna’ emphasises the beauty of the flowers, which are in fact also used as cut flowers to add a distinctive touch to interiors.

Origin and distribution

A species native to the subtropical biome of the South-Western Cape Province.

Leaf

The leaves have an elongated, linear shape; they generally appear in early spring and then wither in summer, before flowering.

Leaf colour

It has a uniform green colour.

Plant height

The plant grows to a height of between 0.5 and 0.7 m, making it suitable for planting in flowerbeds or in pots.

Lifespan

A perennial bulbous geophyte.

Where to plant

Recommended for use as a plant in flowerbeds, borders, pots and rockeries, and also in mixed plantings with other ornamental species.

Stem

The stems bearing the inflorescences are herbaceous; the plant has no thorns.

Flower

The flower is medium-sized, with a funnel-shaped corolla and petals that are shaded yet solid in colour. It grows in large umbel-shaped inflorescences. It flowers from late summer to early autumn, with a flowering period of between 14 and 21 days. It has sweet notes and is slightly fragrant, with a delicate aroma. It attracts bees, butterflies and bumblebees.

Growth

Medium-vigorous Growth plant.

Plant habit

The leaves form a bushy habit, whilst the flower stalks are erect, visually enhanced by the striking compound umbel inflorescences.

PH

It requires a substrate or soil pH ranging from slightly acidic to neutral, with optimum values between 6.0 and 7.0.

Soil preparation

Before planting the bulb, lightly dig over the soil, removing any weeds, residues from previous crops and large stones; then work organic matter evenly into the soil and break up any large clods to make the soil lighter and fluffier. To improve drainage of excess water, thereby preventing waterlogging, it is advisable to create a raised bed by slightly mounding the soil; furthermore, if the soil is too heavy and compact, it is best to add sand.

Finally, spread professional-grade growing medium over the surface and prepare the planting furrows at a suitable density.

Read more on the Joyflo blog

Sun exposure

Suitable for exposure in bright shade, full sun.

Ideal climate and temperature

The ideal temperature is between 15 and 25 °C during the growing season.

The survival temperature range is between -6 and 38 °C; in very harsh winters, it is advisable to protect potted plants, whilst for plants in the ground, mulching or the use of non-woven fabric is recommended.

Use

Its elegant blooms make it a particularly popular bulb in the following sectors:
For cut flowers, for cut foliage Ornamental use

Hardiness

Moderately hardy. It adapts to different types of soil provided they are well-drained; it also tolerates temporary drought.

Soil

It can grow in various types of soil; however, for optimal growth and full flowering, the soil should be light, well-drained and rich in organic matter.

For pot cultivation, use a fresh potting mix specifically designed for spring-flowering plants, or alternatively a potting mix for succulents made from peat, perlite and sand.

Difficulty

With the right care, it is easy to grow and requires a moderate amount of maintenance.

Growing tips

Some specific growing guidelines:
In low light, the plants will not flower Avoid overwatering It can be planted in a flowerbed even in full sun. Exposure to direct sunlight

Planting

Plant the bulb at a depth of about 1.5 times its height and cover it with a layer of compost; space each bulb 20–30 cm apart.
If the bulb is large and about to flower, it should be planted shallower, with the neck just visible above the surface. Water after planting.
Bulbs are usually planted out towards the end of summer; however, some are available as early as spring but can only be planted out once the risk of late frosts has passed.
When planting in pots, leave the bulb’s neck slightly exposed and place the pot outdoors in a sunny, sheltered spot, ensuring the compost does not dry out but remains slightly moist, without becoming waterlogged.

Propagation

The plant can be propagated from seed; however, propagation by dividing the off-bulbs is easier and more common.

Repotting

Repot at the start of summer if there is an excessive build-up of bulbs and lateral bulbils, taking care to separate them.

Watering

Water the growing medium or soil regularly during the growth phase and the subsequent flowering period, allowing the surface to dry out only slightly between waterings.

Avoid waterlogging, which can lead to bulb rot.

Read more on the Joyflo blog

Fertilising

In autumn and spring, apply a balanced fertiliser for flowering plants to the soil, diluting it in the watering water without exceeding the recommended dose or frequency (on average every 15–20 days).
If grown in a pot, it is advisable to add a liquid fertiliser with a high potassium content to the potting mix before flowering.

Do not apply fertiliser to dry potting compost or soil.

Read more on the Joyflo blog

Pet safety

Toxic

Edibility for humans

Non-edible

Toxicity for humans

Toxic

Tip

Plant the bulb at a depth of about 1.5 times its height and cover it with a layer of compost; if the bulb is large and about to flower, it should be planted shallower, taking care to ensure that the tip is only lightly covered by soil. Bulbs are usually planted towards the end of summer; however, some are available as early as spring but can only be planted once the risk of late frosts has passed. Often, after spring planting, the plant does not flower immediately in the first year; it is necessary to wait two to three years, after which it will flower every year under the right growing conditions. Do not remove the leaves whilst they are still green, as they are necessary for the bulb to grow. Remove wilted flowers (at the base of the stem). In very harsh winters, it is advisable to shelter the pots, whilst for plants in the ground, mulching or the use of non-woven fabric is recommended.