If there is one flower that manages to steal the show with an almost tropical look, it’s the amaryllis. Although we’re quite familiar with this bulb as an indoor blooming winter wonder, there is also a hardy outdoor variety: the garden amaryllis. This amaryllis will provide an impressive floral display in late spring.
Exotic spring garden
You will often see the classic amaryllis blooming on windowsills around Christmastime, but the exact opposite applies to this garden variety. Plant the amaryllis bulbs after the frost and they grow into an exotic surprise in late spring with large, richly-colored flowers in shades ranging from deep red, salmon pink, and soft yellow to white or with an enchanting pattern.
Planting tips for the garden amaryllis
Take care when planting: the amaryllis bulb cannot withstand frost, so you should preferably plant it after the last frost in March or April. Want to get started earlier? Then put the bulbs in a pot first and protect them during cold weather by keeping them indoors or in a frost-free location.
- Choose a sheltered, sunny spot with well-drained soil.
- Plant the bulb with the roots down, leaving about a third of the bulb above the soil.
- Maintain a planting distance of about 12 inches to give the flowers enough space.
- Immediately water the soil a bit after planting but do not pour it on the bulb itself.
Pot or border? Either one is fine!
Whether you have a garden or a balcony, the garden amaryllis fits in everywhere. In borders, it combines well with allium or perennials such as salvia (ornamental sage) and lady’s mantle. In pots, it’s a real eye-catcher for your terrace or by the front door. Use a spacious flowerpot or planter with drainage holes to keep the soil well-drained.
Be sure to place the pots in a warm, sunny spot and protect them at night in case of late cold weather. It takes a while for the flowers to appear after planting but you’ll enjoy a fantastic floral display from May or June onwards.
Exotic and easy
The garden amaryllis is an eye-catcher in the garden and surprisingly easy to maintain. Give it a little water during dry spells and some food every once in a while and you’ll enjoy it for weeks. After flowering, you can let the leaves die off and the bulb will then go dormant. That’s the time to remove the bulb from the ground and store it in a cool, dry place for another season.
