A few years ago, around this time of year, I went shopping for an amaryllis bulb to give to my mom. I decided to purchase a kit that included the bulb, a pot, and a soil disc. It was difficult to choose among the many varieties available. I narrowed it down to ‘Red Lion,’ with its striking crimson-red blooms; ‘Minerva,’ featuring red flowers with white, star-shaped centers; and ‘Apple Blossom,’ which sported white flowers with pink tinged petals. Ultimately, I couldn’t decide, so I ended up buying all three. It was worth it. We enjoyed multiple eye-catching blooms throughout the holiday season.
The amaryllis is native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas. It normally flowers from February through April but can be forced to bloom in time for the holidays. A bulb potted in early November should be in bloom by Christmas.
You can purchase an amaryllis as a complete kit, which typically includes a bulb, pot, and growing medium, or buy the bulb separately. Waxed amaryllis bulbs are also available and have become increasingly popular because they require no soil, water, or pot.
To learn more about growing and caring for amaryllis, see:
• UW Madison Division of Extension article, Amaryllis, Hippeastrum, https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/amaryllis-hippeastrum/
• University of Minnesota Extension’s article, Growing and caring for amaryllis, https://extension.umn.edu/garden-and-home/yard-and-garden/gardening-in-minnesota/amaryllis