Amaryllis Bulb

Amaryllis is the most show-stopping winter bloomer for the home. These huge bulbs are technically cultivars of plants in the genus Hippeastrum. True Amaryllis are native to Southern Africa and are typically grown outdoors, while the South American Hippeastrum make great indoor bloomers.

We have two different cultivars available for purchase:

• Amaryllis 'Cocktail' - huge red blooms with white, star-shaped centers
• Amaryllis 'Amalfi' - stunning pink blooms with petals that fold backwards

For more information, read our journal entry about blooming these bulbs indoors.

These bulbs are only available early winter.

How to Coax Blooms in Pot

• Plant bulb in a 6" pot with drainage so the roots are pointed downwards and the top third of the bulb is exposed above the soil line. Use a well-draining soil to prevent rot.
• Water thoroughly so water drains from the bottom on the pot. Water whenever top half of soil is dry to the touch.
• Keep pot in a warm spot in bright, indirect light, but direct airflow from a heating vent might cause the petals to crisp.
• For the long-term health of the plant, use a gentle fertilizer every few weeks after you see new growth appear.

Coax Bulbs in Water

• Just like our Paperwhite Bulbs, Amaryllis bulbs can be forced to bloom indoors with little more than water. These bulbs are too large to fit in our normal Bulb Vase, but any bowl or vase large enough to hold the bulb can work.
• Use pebbles to elevate the bulb at least 2" from the base of the vessel, and fill water up to the base of the bulb. Roots will quickly grow into the water between the pebbles.
• We like to use a tall vase and situate the bulb in the lower half of the vessel, so the tall sides of the glass can support the heavy flower stalks. Otherwise, you'll have to find a way to keep the flowers from falling over.

After-Bloom Care

• When the flowers fade, cut off the flower stem but keep the leaves.
• Continue to grow plant in bright light and water the same way--when the top 2" of soil is dry to the touch or when half of the water reserve is used. Direct sun is okay when the plant is not blooming. Regular fertilizer is recommended.
• Stop watering and fertilizing in August or September. Let the plant dry out completely, then move the plant into a cool, dark spot. The leaves will yellow and die back, and the plant should remain dormant and leafless for 6-8 weeks. After that time, repeat the Bloom Coaxing process above.

What to Expect

You'll get one (1) Amaryllis bulb in the cultivar of your choice. Each bulb is about 4" and is packed in tissue to protect the new growth.