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Bulb

Amaryllis

Hippeastrum spp.

AmaryllisBelladonna Lily (though true Amaryllis is different)

Amaryllis is a popular winter-blooming bulb known for its large, trumpet-shaped flowers. It symbolizes pride, beauty, and determination.

Plant Family

Amaryllidaceae

Blooming

Winter to early spring (commonly December–March indoors)

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Red Amaryllis flower in full bloom with trumpet-shaped petals
Red Amaryllis flower in full bloom with trumpet-shaped petals

Symbolism & Meanings

Key Meanings

Pride
Beauty
Determination
Success

Perfect For

Christmas seasonNew Year celebrationsHousewarming gifts

Color Meanings

Red:Love and passion
White:Purity and innocence
Pink:Friendship and affection

Similar flowers: lily (true lily)s and roses also share similar meanings.

Cultural Significance

Amaryllis is strongly tied to the winter holidays in Europe and North America due to its December blooming indoors.

Botanical Information

Physical Characteristics

Flower Size: 6–10 inches (15–25 cm) wide
Plant Size: 1–2 feet tall (30–60 cm)
Flower Shape: Large trumpet-shaped blooms in clusters

Natural Habitat

Native to: South America (Brazil, Peru, Bolivia, Argentina)
Habitat: Cultivated bulbs, native to tropical and subtropical regions of South America
Climate: Tropical, Subtropical, Temperate (as indoor bulbs)

Growing Guide

Sunlight

Bright, indirect light indoors; partial shade outdoors

Water

Moderate; keep soil moist during growth, drier during dormancy

Soil

Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil

Expert Growing Tips

1

Plant bulbs with one-third above soil level

2

Do not overwater—bulbs rot in soggy soil

3

After flowering, cut stalks but keep leaves to nourish bulb

4

Allow bulbs to go dormant before re-blooming cycle

Uses & Benefits

Ornamental Uses

  • Holiday flowering houseplant
  • Indoor containers
  • Cut flowers for winter arrangements
  • Garden displays in warm climates

Frequently Asked Questions about the Amaryllis

what do amaryllis flowers symbolize?

Amaryllis symbolizes pride, beauty, strength, and determination. Red Amaryllis is often linked to love and holiday cheer.

how do you get amaryllis to rebloom?

Allow the bulb to rest after flowering by reducing watering and letting it go dormant, then restart growth with bright light and regular watering.

are amaryllis poisonous to pets?

Yes, Amaryllis bulbs and leaves are toxic to cats and dogs if ingested, causing vomiting and lethargy.

when does amaryllis bloom indoors?

Amaryllis typically blooms in winter, often from December to March, making it a popular holiday flower.

Available Colors

Red
White
Pink
Orange
Bicolor

Quick Facts

Type:bulb
Family:Amaryllidaceae
Native to:South America (Brazil, Peru, Bolivia, Argentina)
Blooms:Winter to early spring (commonly December–March indoors)

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