How to Grow Amaryllis
Hippeastrum hybridum
Amaryllis produces dramatic trumpet-shaped flowers on tall stems in winter or spring. After flowering, grow the strap-like leaves all summer to recharge the bulb. In early autumn, stop watering and store the dormant bulb cool and dark for 8–10 weeks, then restart to trigger new blooms. A reliable repeat-flowerer with minimal effort once you understand the dormancy cycle. Toxic to cats and dogs.
Yearly Lifecycle
Care Essentials
Feed every two weeks with a balanced liquid fertiliser once leaves appear after flowering. Continue through summer to build the bulb for next year. Stop feeding when you begin the dormancy period in early autumn.
Watch For
- Red blotch (Stagonospora) causing red streaks on leaves and flower stalks
- Mealybug hiding between bulb scales
- Bulb rot from overwatering during dormancy
- Narcissus bulb fly larvae
Pet Safety
Care Requirements
Light
Bright indirect light indoors
Bright indirect light during growth and flowering. Direct sun can scorch leaves. During dormancy, store in a dark place.
Watering
Regular when growing, none when dormant
Water when the top 2 cm of soil is dry during active growth. Reduce gradually in late summer. Stop completely during the 8-10 week dormancy period.
Fertilizing
Fortnightly after flowering through summer
Feed every two weeks with balanced liquid fertiliser once leaves appear after flowering. Continue through summer to build the bulb. Stop when inducing dormancy.
