All About Amaryllis: Your Questions Answered
Few winter flowers bring quite as much drama and colour to your home as the Amaryllis. With their tall, elegant stems and large, trumpet-shaped blooms, they’re the perfect way to brighten the dark months — and a festive favourite here at Flowerland!
Whether you’re new to growing them or already a fan, here’s our guide to everything you need to know about Amaryllis bulbs — from planting to aftercare.
Q: What is an Amaryllis, exactly?
The Amaryllis is a bulbous plant native to South America, known for producing tall stems topped with stunning flowers in red, white, pink, or striped varieties.
They’re often grown indoors during winter, making them a popular Christmas gift or decoration.
Q: When should I plant my Amaryllis bulb?
Plant your Amaryllis between October and January for beautiful blooms over the festive season or early spring.
If you’re hoping for flowers at Christmas, aim to plant your bulb around late October or early November — it usually takes 6–8 weeks from planting to flowering.
Q: How do I plant an Amaryllis bulb?
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Choose a pot just slightly bigger than the bulb (about 2–3cm of space around it).
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Fill it with bulb compost or a mix of multipurpose compost and grit.
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Place the bulb so that the top third sits above the soil surface.
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Water lightly — enough to moisten, but not soak — and keep in a bright, warm place (around 20°C).
Top tip: Don’t overwater at the start! Wait until you see growth before watering regularly.
Q: How do I care for it while it grows?
Once growth starts, water sparingly but consistently — keeping the compost lightly moist.
Turn the pot occasionally so the stem grows straight and isn’t leaning toward the light.
As the flower bud appears, move it to a cooler, bright spot to prolong blooming time.
Q: What should I do once it’s finished flowering?
After flowering:
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Cut back the flower stalk (but not the leaves!).
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Continue to water and feed for a few months to help the bulb store energy for next year.
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In late summer, stop watering and let the bulb rest for 8–10 weeks before starting again in autumn.
This cycle can help your Amaryllis bloom year after year!
Q: Can I give Amaryllis as a gift?
Absolutely! Amaryllis bulbs make a wonderful seasonal gift — easy to grow, long-lasting, and bursting with beauty.
Many come in decorative pots or kits, making them ideal for friends, family, or even a treat for yourself.
Q: Why isn’t my Amaryllis flowering?
If your Amaryllis has leaves but no flowers, it might need:
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More light (move it to a brighter spot)
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Rest time (let it go dormant before replanting)
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Or a little feed boost after its last bloom.
Q: What varieties should I try?
Some of our favourites at Flowerland include:
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‘Red Lion’ – the classic deep red Christmas variety
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‘Apple Blossom’ – soft pink and white petals
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‘Minerva’ – striking red with a white centre
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‘Alfresco’ – pure white and beautifully elegant
Final Tip: Bring a Little Drama Indoors
Amaryllis bulbs are one of the easiest ways to add winter colour and a touch of luxury to your home. Whether grouped together for impact or placed as a single statement bloom, they never fail to impress.
Visit Flowerland to pick up your Amaryllis bulbs, compost, and decorative pots — and get expert advice from our team to make your blooms spectacular this season!
