Hippeastrum Aquaro - Amaryllis

Hippeastrum 'Aquaro' is a new and delightful variety of amaryllis. It boasts huge double flowers in a pastel palette, with white petals striated with deep pink. It will look magnificent surrounded by holly leaves, ferns, or mistletoe on a festive table, or in the conservatory. In just a few weeks, this large bulb produces one or two sturdy stems, each bearing 4 spectacular flowers. Regular fertilisation will guarantee faithful flowering each year.

Everyone knows amaryllis, but their scientific name is much less known: they belong to the genus Hippeastrum, in the Amaryllidaceae family. Speaking of amaryllis is a misuse of language, as there is another South African bulbous plant called Amaryllis (not to be confused!). It can be grown outdoors but is not very hardy, and you can also find it online.

Hippeastrum are native to South and Central America and can only be grown indoors or in a greenhouse here, as they cannot tolerate any frost. Only the most sheltered gardens on the Mediterranean coast, spared from frost, will be able to accommodate them in open ground. They are characterised by a very large bulb that can reach 36cm (14in) in circumference, producing tall stems in the middle of winter (between December and February) that usually give rise to 3 or 4 flowers facing away.

The 'Aquaro' variety, introduced in 2019, features huge double flowers (up to 25cm (10in) in diameter) with bi-coloured petals and an iridescent texture. The petals are randomly striated and streaked with pink-red, especially in the throat. The flower's centre has petal-like stamens. The flowers are borne in groups of 4 on 50cm (20in) tall stems, arranged in a cross shape. The long, shiny green ribbon-like leaves dry up a few weeks after flowering.

'Aquaro' is a subtropical plant. It should be placed in a warm location, always above 15°C (59°F) during flowering (a room that is too cold could cause the buds to drop). Water it a little during this period to prevent the substrate from drying out. Once flowering is over, cut off the dry stems. However, be careful not to remove the leaves until several weeks later, when they are completely dry. If you remove them while still green, the bulb will not be able to replenish its reserves properly and will not flower again.

Plant your amaryllis in a slightly larger pot than the bulb, burying it halfway, in rich and well-draining substrate. Moisture is its main enemy and can cause rot. These plants are very rewarding: the buds will begin to open between 6 and 8 weeks after planting. Start planting your bulbs in November to enjoy them during the holidays. Combine several varieties to stagger the flowering and enjoy them for a long period.