Hippeastrum aka Hippeastrum

Hippeastrum produces spectacular trumpet-shaped blooms measuring 6-10 inches across, appearing in clusters of 2-6 flowers per stalk. The blooms come in stunning colors including white, red, pink, salmon, orange, and bicolor variations, lasting approximately 2-3 weeks. Each flower stalk reaches 18-24 inches tall, often emerging before the foliage appears.

Popular large-flowering cultivars include 'Red Lion' (deep scarlet red, 10-inch blooms), 'Apple Blossom' (soft pink with white center), 'Minerva' (white with cherry red edges), 'Picotee' (white with red border), and 'Mont Blanc' (pure white). Other favorites are 'Exotic Star' (pale pink with red veining and green throat) and 'Ludwig Dazzler' (white). With over 600 hybrids and cultivars available, varieties range from single to double-flowered forms and include miniature options, offering colors spanning red, pink, white, orange, salmon, and stunning bicolor combinations.

Hippeastrum can be propagated through several methods. The easiest is dividing offset bulblets that form beside the mother bulb - these take 2-5 years to bloom depending on size. Growing from seed is possible but slow, requiring 3-5 years to flowering with variable results. Advanced techniques include bulb re-sectioning (cutting mature bulbs into pie-shaped sections after foliage fades) which may flower in 2+ years. Dormant bulbs are the fastest option for flowering, blooming just 6-8 weeks after breaking dormancy.

Apply liquid fertilizer every two weeks from the end of blooming through midsummer using a complete fertilizer (5-10-10 or 10-10-10). Switch to a high-potash fertilizer in mid-to-late summer to promote next year's flowering. Stop all feeding after mid-fall when the plant enters dormancy preparation. Light fertilization during the flowering period is also beneficial. This regular feeding schedule helps the bulb store energy and ensures robust blooms in subsequent seasons.

Hippeastrum thrives at 65-70°F during active growth. During blooming, cooler temperatures of 60-65°F help prolong flower life. For dormancy induction, reduce temperatures to 45-55°F for 8-10 weeks to initiate flower buds for the next season. Optimal range for early growth and flowering is 55-70°F. Protect from frost and temperatures below 50°F, as the plant is sensitive to cold and frost damage can occur, though foliage in zones 8-10 regenerates quickly in spring after frost damage.

Repot Hippeastrum every 3-4 years after dormancy ends, as the bulbs continue to grow in diameter each year. Use a pot where the bulb has about 1-2 inches of space on all sides - containers that are slightly tight encourage better blooming. Plant with the top half of the bulb (neck and shoulders) above the soil line, leaving about an inch below the pot rim for watering. Use a well-draining mix of equal parts houseplant soil (high in organic matter), peat moss, and sand or perlite.

Hippeastrum requires distinct seasonal care for reblooming. After flowering (late winter/spring), continue watering and fertilizing to build bulb strength. In summer, gradually acclimate plants to full sun outdoors for optimal growth. By mid-fall, stop watering and fertilizing to induce dormancy - foliage will yellow and wither naturally. Store dormant bulbs in cool, dark conditions (45-55°F) for 8-10 weeks without water to initiate flower buds. Resume watering in late fall/early winter to break dormancy and trigger the next bloom cycle in 6-8 weeks.

Red blotch is the most serious fungal disease, causing red spots and cankers on leaves and bulbs - treat with systemic fungicide. Botrytis and virus mosaic can also occur but are less common. Mealybugs are the primary insect pest requiring monitoring and control. Caterpillars and chewing insects occasionally appear but rarely need treatment. Soil nematodes may slow growth in some cases. Overall, Hippeastrum is considered relatively pest-free compared to many ornamentals, with red blotch being the main concern requiring preventive care.

Yellowing leaves in fall/late summer are natural as the plant prepares for dormancy - this is normal and should be encouraged by stopping water and fertilizer. However, yellowing during active growth indicates problems: overwatering causing bulb rot (check if bulb feels soft), insufficient light, or nutrient deficiency from lack of fertilization. If yellowing occurs after blooming with no flowers the following year, the bulb likely lacks strength and needs more summer sunlight exposure and regular fertilizing to rebuild energy reserves for future blooms.

Slow growth or failure to bloom usually indicates a bulb lacking strength. Ensure the plant receives at least 6 hours of bright light daily - insufficient light is a primary cause of poor performance. During the active growing season (spring through summer), fertilize every two weeks with complete fertilizer and switch to high-potash formula in late summer. The plant needs proper dormancy (8-10 weeks at 45-55°F) to initiate flower buds. Soil nematodes can occasionally slow growth, and bulbs that feel soft may have rot from overwatering.

Hippeastrum can be grown outdoors as a perennial in USDA hardiness zones 8-10, where it blooms naturally in spring. Plant bulbs in well-drained soil in part shade to part sun (performs poorly in total shade), spacing them 6-12 inches apart with only the bottom half buried. In zones 8-10, foliage may be damaged by frost but regenerates quickly in spring. Bulbs can be left in ground year-round or lifted and divided annually. In colder zones, move potted plants outdoors in summer for optimal growth, then bring inside before frost for winter forcing.

Hippeastrum requires minimal pruning. Remove spent flowers promptly after blooming to prevent seed formation, which drains energy from the bulb needed for next year's flowers. However, leave the flower stalk until it yellows completely, as it continues photosynthesizing and strengthening the bulb. Do not cut back foliage during the growing season - the strap-like leaves are essential for energy storage. Only remove leaves in fall when they naturally yellow during dormancy preparation, or cut them back when forcing dormancy for reblooming cycles.

Gently wipe Hippeastrum's long strap-like leaves with a soft, damp cloth to remove dust and maintain healthy photosynthesis. The leaves can grow up to 2 feet long and are relatively smooth and leathery, making them easy to clean. Avoid using leaf shine products, as these can clog leaf pores. Regular dusting helps the plant photosynthesize efficiently, which is crucial for building bulb strength for future blooms. Handle leaves carefully as they emerge from the bulb base to avoid damaging new growth.