Plant of the Month

Amaryllis have huge trumpet-like flowers which can be as much as 8" (20 cm) across. They are noted for their intense colours: vibrant reds and oranges, but they are also available in pastels (pink and peach), as well as white, green, and many bicolour varieties. The blooming time is 5 - 10 weeks after planting indoors, or if planting outdoors in spring, about 3 - 4 months later. They can grow to be 1-3 feet tall. Half of the bulb should be showing above the soil line when planting. It is also called Barbados Lily. Although they are only hardy in zones 9 and 10, they are ideal for indoor forcing. Amaryllis are widely available commercially, and can be found in single, double, and miniature varieties.