Hippeastrum x johnsonii, The Hardy Amaryllis
- Botanical Name: Hippeastrum x johnsonii
Common Name: Hardy Amaryllis, Johnson’s Amaryllis, St. Joseph’s Lily
Category: Flowering Bulb
Family: Amaryllidaceae
Lifecycle: Perennial
Lifecycle (Alt): Annual
USDA Symbol: HIPJ
Hardiness Zone North: 7A
Hardiness Zone South: 11B
Sun Requirement: Full Sun (6+ Hours)
Sun Requirement (Alt): Partial Shade (2-4 Hours)
Water Requirement: Medium
Growth Rate: Moderate
Maintenance: Low
Plant Adult Height: 1.5-2 ft.
Plant Adult Spread: 1-2 ft.
Plant Spacing: 12-18 in.
Soil Preference: Adaptable
Soil pH Preference: Neutral (6.6-7.3)
Attracts: Bees, Butterflies, Hummingbirds
Resists: Deer
Tolerates: Clay Soil, Heat
Miscellaneous: Poisonous to Humans, Toxic to Pets, Tolerates Poor Soil
Description: The Hardy Amaryllis, known botanically as Hippeastrum x johnsonii, is a hybrid plant resulting from a cross between two South American species. This plant is notable for its trumpet-shaped flowers, which typically exhibit a striking red and white bloom color. These blooms appear primarily in spring, although sometimes they may re-bloom under optimal conditions. The Hardy Amaryllis is favored for its ability to attract pollinators, including hummingbirds and various insect species, due to its vibrant blooms and tubular shape. This perennial is valuable in
landscapes or home gardens for its ability to provide a splash of color in flower beds or borders. It can also be planted in containers for decorative purposes. Hardy Amaryllis shows a degree of tolerance to drought and a certain level of resistance to pests, which makes it easier to maintain compared to other, more demanding flowering plants. However, it is important to note that while it is not considered invasive, all parts of the Hardy Amaryllis, like many within the Amaryllis family, are toxic if ingested by pets or humans, which must be considered when planting it in areas accessible to children or animals. Unlike its close relatives, the Hardy Amaryllis is distinguished by its robustness and ease of cultivation in a variety of soil conditions, provided they are well-draining. Its resilience is a notable characteristic that differentiates it from more temperamental relatives, such as the more commonly known Hippeastrum hybrids cultivated for indoor growing during the winter months. The plant requires minimal maintenance beyond periodic watering and enjoys a warm, sunny location to thrive, making it adaptable for areas with relatively mild climates. This ease of care, combined with its ability to contribute vivid color to the landscape, makes the Hardy Amaryllis a practical and satisfying choice for many gardeners.
Planting & Propagation: To plant Hardy Amaryllis, start by selecting a location with well-draining soil and full to partial sunlight. Prepare the soil by loosening it to a depth of about 12 inches, amending with organic matter if necessary to improve drainage. Plant the bulbs 12 inches apart from each other and 6 to 8 inches deep, ensuring the pointed end is facing upwards. Water thoroughly after planting and maintain evenly moist soil until established, being careful not to overwater. If planting multiple bulbs, ensure consistent spacing and depth for optimal growth. For those who want to propagate a non-proprietary Hardy Amaryllis, division is the most effective method. After flowering, carefully dig up the clump and separate the offsets from the parent bulb, ensuring each offset has roots attached. Replant these offsets in the same manner as the initial planting, providing consistent moisture and care to establish new growth.
Plant Care: Hardy Amaryllis, a robust perennial, thrives with proper care. Plant bulbs in well-draining soil, enriched with organic matter, ensuring the neck of the bulb is above the soil line. This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. Water regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist during the growing season but allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent rot. Reduce watering after flowering as the plant enters dormancy. Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring and again after flowering to promote growth and future blooms. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage reblooming and direct energy back to the bulb. Mulch in late fall to insulate against temperature fluctuations. To maintain vigor, divide clumps every 3-5 years in autumn. Protect from extreme cold
by applying a mulch layer or relocating pots indoors during winter months. Regularly check for pests such as aphids or spider mites, treating as needed with insecticidal soap. With these care practices, Hardy Amaryllis will reward you with vibrant, trumpet-shaped blooms and lush foliage year after year.
Fertilize: To promote optimal growth in Hardy Amaryllis, fertilize during the growing season, which typically begins after the last frost and continues until early fall. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20. Apply the fertilizer every 4-6 weeks, ensuring the soil is moist before and after application to prevent root burn. Reduce fertilizer use in midsummer when growth may naturally slow and cease fertilizing entirely once foliage begins to die back in fall. Avoid fertilizing during dormancy in winter. Hardy Amaryllis benefits from soil rich in organic matter; consider incorporating compost annually to enhance soil fertility. Always follow package instructions for specific application rates to avoid over-fertilization.
Prune: Prune Hardy Amaryllis by removing spent flower stalks at the base once blooming has finished. This encourages healthy regrowth and prevents energy from being diverted into seed production. Do not cut the green leaves since they are crucial for photosynthesis and storing energy for the bulb. Allow leaves to die back naturally in the late fall, and remove them once they turn brown and dry. This clean-up facilitates tidiness and prevents disease or pest infestations. Avoid pruning during late spring and summer when the plant’s foliage is actively growing and collecting energy. The best time for any necessary cutting is post-bloom in late spring to early summer, with additional clean-up in late fall. By adhering to these guidelines, you support the plant’s health and ensure vigorous blooming in the next cycle.
Pest & Disease: The Hardy Amaryllis can be affected by several pests and diseases, which require vigilant management to maintain the plant’s health. Common pests include aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. Aphids, small sap-sucking insects, can cause distorted growth and should be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Spider mites, which thrive in hot, dry conditions, create webbing and yellowing leaves; their population can be reduced by increasing humidity and applying miticides if necessary. Mealybugs, identifiable by their cottony appearance, can be removed by hand or treated with horticultural oil. For diseases, the Hardy Amaryllis is susceptible to bulb rot and leaf scorch. Bulb rot, a fungal issue favored by excessive moisture, can be prevented by ensuring well-drained soil and removing infected bulbs. Leaf scorch, often due to fungal or bacterial infections, manifests as brown leaf tips and requires the removal of affected foliage and improving air circulation around the plant. Consistent monitoring and maintaining optimal growing conditions significantly contribute to the health of Hardy Amaryllis plants, minimizing the risk of pest infestations and disease development.
Attribution: This plant information is the copyrighted property of PlantTAGG, Inc. (www.planttagg.com) and is published with permission.
Link to Full Profile: https://m.planttagg.com/#/public/details?key=5YS6XEZ5KM2SCJ3DEHNTPU0CRGH
