Amaryllis belladonna

Amaryllis belladonna, also known as Brunsvigia rosea, is a frost-sensitive lily, known for its slightly fragrant candy-pink flowering in September.

This plant with a large fleshy bulb develops rigid stems that reach a height of 60cm (24in). These bare stems bear 5 to 15 trumpet-shaped flowers measuring 6 to 10cm (2 to 4in) in diameter. They are pink with a lighter centre. Its sweet vanilla-scented flowering is followed by deciduous, ribbon-like green foliage measuring 40cm (16in) in length.

Be careful! This bulbous plant is toxic if ingested.

Belladonna lily, native to South Africa, is not very hardy. It is only grown in open ground in regions with mild climates. It grows in light, well-drained, humus-bearing soil. It prefers a sunny exposure that is protected from cold winds. It is ideal in a border of perennials or late annuals. In colder regions, grow it in a pot with good potting soil.

Amaryllis belladonna should not be confused with Hippeastrums, which are bulbous plants for indoor cultivation.