The ‘Diva‘ (or ‘Grand Diva’) Amaryllis is a premium cultivar of Hippeastrum, celebrated for producing massive, velvety, deep burgundy-red flowers. These bulbs are popular for holiday, indoor, and container gardening due to their dramatic, large trumpet-shaped blooms, which can measure 10–15 cm in diameter. They are known for being low-maintenance, requiring little more than sunlight and sparse watering to produce their signature, deep red, silk-like flowers.
Key Features and Characteristics
- Color and Texture: The blooms are a deep, dark, velvety red, often with a slightly darker, rich burgundy in the throat.
- Bloom Size and Count: Each bulb is known for being high-quality, frequently producing two or more sturdy stems, with each stem bearing 4–5 large flowers.
- Fragrance: While many modern hybrids are not scented, the Grand Diva is often noted for having a pleasant fragrance.
- Size: The plants generally grow to a height of 45–60 cm (about 20–24 inches).
- Type: As a Hippeastrum hybrid, it is not a true Amaryllis (which is Amaryllis belladonna), but it is commercially sold as such.
Planting and Care Instructions
- Planting Time: Bulbs are best planted in the autumn/winter (October through April) to ensure blooms during the holiday season or early spring.
- Potting: Use a well-drained potting mix in a pot just slightly larger than the bulb (about 1-2 inches wider).
- Planting Depth: Plant the bulb with the top one-third to one-half remaining exposed above the soil level.
- Watering: Water sparingly until the first sprout appears to prevent bulb rot. As the stem and leaves develop, keep the soil lightly moist.
- Light: Place in a bright, sunny spot (a south-facing window is ideal) to ensure strong, straight growth.
- Rotation: Rotate the pot daily to prevent the flower stalk from leaning towards the light.
After-Bloom Care and Reblooming
Amaryllis ‘Diva’ can rebloom, but requires a, rest period.
Amaryllis ‘Diva’ can rebloom, but requires a, rest period.
- Post-bloom: After the flowers fade, cut the stalk to 1-2 inches above the bulb, but do not cut the leaves.
- Summer Care: Continue to water and fertilize, allowing the leaves to grow, which helps the bulb store energy for the next year.
- Dormancy: In late summer/early autumn, stop watering and let the foliage die back.
- Storage: Store the bulb in a cool, dark, dry place (50-60°F or 10-15°C) for 8–12 weeks.
Toxicity Note: Like other amaryllis, ‘Diva’ is toxic if ingested by humans or pets (cats/dogs).
