Holiday Amaryllis: Choosing, Planting, and Enjoying Spectacular Winter Blooms

Why Amaryllis?

Huge, showy flowers (6–8" across) on sturdy stalks. No green thumb needed—energy is stored in the bulb.

Planting

• Choose largest bulb for best display.
• Pot slightly wider than bulb with drainage.
• Leave top 1/3 of bulb exposed.
• Water once; then wait for growth.
• Bright window; rotate pot for straight stalks.

Top Varieties

South African (4–6 week bloom): 'Twinkle Twinkle' (red/white star), 'Lemon Lime', 'Candy Floss' (deep pink), 'Al Fresco' (white).
Dutch (6–8 week bloom): 'Clown'/'Candy Cane' (red/white striped), 'Minerva' (white center/red edges), 'Red Lion' (cherry red), 'Rozetta' (pink), 'Dancing Queen' (double white/red streaks), 'Grand Cru' (deep burgundy, 24" stems).

Sources

Local nurseries or mail-order: John Scheepers, White Flower Farm, Park Seed, Blooming Bulb.

Aftercare

Can be planted outdoors in zones 8–11 or kept in pots for rebloom next year.