Amaryllis Basics
Ideal for winter gardening indoors, flamboyant amaryllis are available as bare bulbs (November- February) for potting up or as potted plants ...
Jamie Hancock: This bulb will last for years
The amaryllis is a tender bulb that is ready to bloom when purchased. It was discovered in 1828 by Eduard Frederich Poeppig, a young physician form Leipzig, Germany, on a plant hunting expedition in Chile. It is nicknamed “Horse Star” because of its enormous bloom size. The genus name for this plant is Hippeastrum. Hippo in Greek means horse, and astrum means star. The blooms can range in size from 8 to 10 inches across. They characteristically have petal colorations that resemble the shape of a star. In the language of flowers, amaryllis means splendid beauty or pride. If cared for properly, amaryllis bulbs will last for decades.
The large local retail stores along with several of our local nurseries, grocery stores and florist shops carry amaryllis bulbs that are already potted in decorative containers. They make wonderful living gifts for family, friends and co-workers. Bulbs can also be purchased individually and you can plant them in special containers of your choosing. The larger the bulb is, the larger the flower. Some bulbs are as large as grapefruit!
