Amarylis (Hippeastrum) : Flower Facts

Meaning

Pride, splendid beauty, timidity

Origins

Pronounced AMMA-rillis, Amaryllis is sometimes called Hippeastrum, which means, "Knight star". Known botanically as hippeastrum, from the Greek hippos, which means, "Horse," amaryllis blooms are huge, trumpet-shaped flowers clustered atop of a long, leafless stems often more than half a metre tall, are topped by four or five of these outsize blooms, making an impressive display. Members of the Amaryllidaceae family, amaryllises are at home in the tropics, and are native to South America and Africa. The flowers are traditionally sold during the winter months both as cut flowers and packaged in potted bulb kits. Amaryllis was a popular woman's name in ancient Greece.

Flower Availability and Vase Life

All year round, with peak supplies from October to May.

7-14 days.

Care and Handling

If storing in a cool place, keep temperatures between 41-50 F. Temperatures below that may result in discoloration of petals and buds. Handle amaryllis carefully as blooms bruise easily and stems damage easily.

Florist Design Uses

Amaryllis is striking when used alone or as part of a design. Allow room in an arrangement for the flowers to open fully. Heavy amaryllis blooms may need the extra security and support of a stake or bamboo rod inserted into the hollow stem. The stem tends to curl outward at the bottom when standing in water, which does not affect the life of the flower, but can disturb a design. To remedy this wrap a piece of clear tape or a rubber band around the end of each stem.

Colours: Reds, pinks, oranges, salmons, white, and bi-colours.