Flower Library
Amaryllis
Hippeastrum · Amaryllidaceae
Amaryllis is winter's statement flower. With its trumpet-shaped, often plate-sized bloom on a thick hollow stem, it makes immediate impact. As a cut flower in the vase a classic, as a bulb in a pot a typical Advent gift.
- Season
- November – December – January – February
- Vase life
- 7–14 days
- Latin name
- Hippeastrum
- Colors
- Red, White, Pink, Apricot, Bordeaux, Striped
Amaryllis opens 3–4 blooms per stem in sequence — which spreads vase life pleasantly: first one opens, then a second, sometimes a third and fourth. The bouquet looks different across two weeks.
The thick hollow stem is a weak spot: it snaps under bloom weight. Florist trick: insert a thin wooden stick into the stem (through the bottom cut) to stabilise.
As a potted plant: one bulb per pot, soil moist but not wet, bright but not direct sun. 6–8 weeks from planting to bloom — plant in October to bloom by Christmas.
Palette: red is the classic ('Red Lion' variety), white the wedding pick, striped ('Apple Blossom') a modern look. Late season also very dark bordeaux and rare yellow varieties.
Is Amaryllis toxic to children and pets?
- Children
- Toxic
- Cats
- Toxic
- Dogs
- Toxic
Toxic to cats, dogs and horses. The whole plant contains lycorine, with the highest concentration in the bulb. If ingested it can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling and tremors. Keep away from pets.
Typical symptoms: Vomiting, drooling, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, tremors and lethargy.
In an emergency:call the German poison control centre in Bonn on +49 228 19240 (24/7) — for pets, contact an emergency vet directly. This information does not replace medical or veterinary advice.
Overview: toxic & non-toxic plants for cats, dogs and children
Care
- 01Cut hollow stem end on an angle, place in water immediately.
- 02Hollow stem: insert a thin wooden stick if heads grow too heavy.
- 03Change water every 2–3 days, rinse vase inside with dish soap.
- 04Location cool, no direct sun, away from heaters.
- 05Potted: bright, moderate watering, rest the bulb over summer after flowering for next year.
Frequently asked
- How does potted amaryllis last longest?
- Bright without direct sun, moderate watering (evenly moist soil), 16–18°C. A bulb blooms 3–6 weeks.
- Can I reuse amaryllis bulbs?
- Yes. After flowering cut the stem, let leaves grow on, place in garden or bright room in summer. Rest dry in autumn, replant in October. Blooms for years.
- Is amaryllis toxic?
- Mildly toxic to humans, strongly toxic to cats, dogs and horses. Keep out of pet reach or avoid entirely.
- How long does cut amaryllis last in the vase?
- 7–14 days. Because each stem opens 3–4 blooms in sequence, the display spreads across two weeks. A cool spot and fresh water every 2–3 days extend vase life.
- When is amaryllis in season?
- From November to February — amaryllis is the classic winter and Advent flower. Peak season is around Christmas, both as a cut flower in the vase and as a bulb in a pot.