Amarilis

Hippeastrum vittatum

Its Latin name is Hippeastrum and it is native to central and southern America, especially Argentina and Brazil. The flower is bell-shaped, perhaps somewhat stunted, with six petals and very large stamens. It has elongated green leaves that usually come out after flowering but sometimes at the same time as the flowers. We can find this species in delicate pinks, salmon or soft yellows, but also in bright oranges, reds or mixtures that create very colorful fusions with fire effect or mottled bases in different shades.

As it is a bulb flower, you can buy it in this format so you can see its birth. We already know that the bulbs must be planted before the beginning of spring, so if you are already late, you can choose to buy the Amaryllis already in bloom and follow the steps to keep the bulb until next year and thus get to see it born.

To plant the bulb, choose a small container, not much larger than the bulb itself. If you want a larger container, a very decorative idea is to plant several bulbs in the same pot or planter. The visual effect when the flowers are born is amazingly ideal.

Mix soil with a layer of sand to facilitate drainage and bury the bulb leaving only the head sticking out, about a third of the way. Until it flowers, you will have to water it once a week, increasing to three times a week when it has flowered.

This species of bulb is of temperate climates, it does not support the cold, so never leave it outdoors if the temperature drops below 6ºC. It could be considered an indoor plant, at least in winter, and it can also decorate our exteriors when spring arrives. However, keep in mind that the Amaryllis flower lasts about a month and a half and that's if we know how to keep it, so enjoy it as much as you can while you can choosing a good place to expose it and take advantage of its decorative beauty.

If you want to keep the bulb for the following season, you can leave it in the pot in a dry, dark and cool place, keeping the watering only until the flower wilts and you cut it and all the leaves dry so that you cut flush with the ground. Only when you remove all the leaves can you store it. At least you have to guarantee two months of rest without risk and in a dark and cool place. When the time comes, you can start again...