The “Watermelon” Amaryllis is a striking cultivar of the Hippeastrum genus, popular for its vibrant, watermelon-pink or coral-pink colored flowers. These bulbs are cherished for their ability to bring bright, tropical color to indoor spaces, particularly during the winter holiday season.
Appearance and Characteristics
- Blooms: The flowers are large and funnel-shaped, featuring a distinct, bright pink, red-pink, or coral hue, often with darker veining, white highlights, and a vibrant green throat.
- Size: The bulbs produce tall, sturdy, leafless stalks (scapes) that can grow up to 16–24 inches tall, with flowers measuring up to 8–10 inches in diameter.
- Types: While often sold as single-flowered, some watermelon-hued varieties, such as Amaryllis ‘Sweet Nymph’, feature double-flowering, ruffled petals, making them resemble peonies.
- Foliage: The leaves are long, strap-like, and glossy green, typically emerging during or after flowering.
Growing and Care Tips
Amaryllis is relatively easy to grow indoors, making it a favorite for beginners.
Amaryllis is relatively easy to grow indoors, making it a favorite for beginners.
- Planting: Plant the bulb in a well-draining pot, ensuring the top third of the bulb remains above the soil surface.
- Light: Place in a bright, indirect light spot to encourage healthy growth.
- Watering: Water sparingly; only water when the top few centimeters of soil are dry to avoid bulb rot.
- Bloom Time: The bulb usually blooms 6 to 10 weeks after planting.
- After-Care & Reblooming: After the flowers fade, cut back the flower stalks, but keep the green leaves. Continue to water and fertilize throughout the summer to store energy, then allow the bulb to go dormant for 8–12 weeks in a cool, dark place in the fall to encourage reblooming.
Symbolism and Uses
- Symbolism: In the language of flowers, amaryllis symbolizes pride, radiant beauty, and determination.
- Usage: They are commonly used as festive holiday centerpieces, in winter indoor containers, or as cut flowers in arrangements, lasting up to two weeks in a vase.
Important Notes
- Toxicity: All parts of the amaryllis plant are toxic to pets (cats and dogs) if ingested, potentially causing vomiting and diarrhea.
- Botanical Name: While called “Amaryllis,” the bulbs commonly sold in stores are actually hybrids of the genus Hippeastrum, which are native to South America.
