Huge trumpet flowers on stout stalks make a spectacular pot or border display in warm climates. The large bulbs are easy and long-lived but toxic to pets and people.
At a glance
- Plant type: Bulb
- Mature size: 50 cm H × 30 cm W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Hippeastrum
Hippeastrum hybrid is a moderate-growing bulb in the Amaryllidaceae family. It reaches around 50 cm tall and 30 cm wide at maturity, with evergreen and semi-deciduous foliage. Red, pink, white and orange flowers appear in spring and summer.
Where to grow Hippeastrum
Hippeastrum suits warm-temperate, subtropical and tropical climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Hippeastrum provided drainage is reasonable. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Hippeastrum does best with regular, moderate watering. Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to support healthy growth. New plantings need closer moisture checks in hot or windy weather, with watering tapered once strong new growth appears.
Pruning & care
Prune Hippeastrum after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Its ongoing care level is low maintenance.
Using Hippeastrum in the garden
Hippeastrum earns its place for a feature or specimen planting, pots and courtyard containers and cut flowers for the vase. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
Build the planting around neighbours suited to the same regular, moderate watering and warm-temperate climate as Hippeastrum. Repeating the foliage or flower colour nearby will make the composition feel deliberate.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew. All parts can be toxic if eaten, so keep it away from small children.
Buying Hippeastrum
Plant Sale lists Hippeastrum as bulbs. Use the interest form above to check current sizes, pricing and availability before ordering.
