This December, we are celebrating, exploring and incorporating Hippeastrum into our designs.
Discover our brief introduction video here on the different types of Amaryllis and an overview of how to condition the flowers.
Fun facts about Amaryllis
- Hippeastrum is also known as Amaryllis and is a genus of the Amaryllidaceae and is Native to South American regions.
- Also known as Horsemans Star (in Greek), Knights Star and also Naked Lady because it prodeces flowers before leaves on the ‘naked’ leafless flowering stalks.
- They have large showy trumpet shaped flowers with thick hollow stems.
- Hippeastrum is a popular house plant, very easily grown from the bulb. Indoors amaryllis prefer bright, indirect sunlight, while outdoors they prefer partial sunlight or full shade.
- The plant is not frost-tolerant, nor does it excel in warmer climates. They require dry resting period between the leaf growth and flower spike production.
- They are found on the flower markets as a cut flower dry packed in flower boxes.
- The number of flowers in the box determines the grade and number of heads per stem. For example, 8 to 12 stems in a box will result in larger heads, more buds per stem and better quality.
- They are available in three main categories, single, double and spider.
- Certain substances isolated from Amaryllis can be used in treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.
- The word “amaryllis” originates from the Latin word “amarus” which means “bitter”. The name refers to the bitter taste of the bulb.
- Typically available on the flower market between late October to April.
- Hippeastrum are hollow stemmed and have to be conditioned differently.
- Though red and white are the most popular colors for this flower, it also comes in pink, orange, yellow, and purple.
- Amaryllis is associated with determination, beauty, success and love.
Stay tuned for more introduction videos exploring the individual varieties, conditioning tips and how to tutorials on how you can incorporate into designs.