Every holiday season, I look forward to the moment when a family member hands me a new amaryllis bulb. Watching those thick green shoots rise from the soil and burst into brilliant blooms never loses its magic. In this guide, I’ll show you how to grow amaryllis indoors and outdoors, care for the bulbs after blooming, and get them to rebloom year after year.
For years, I used to toss my bulbs once the display was over, assuming their time had passed. Once I learned how to rest and revive them, everything changed. Now those same bulbs bloom again indoors and later slip into my garden beds for an even bigger show.
Few flowers deliver the drama of amaryllis. Towering stems, trumpet shaped blooms, and an ability to shine in both winter décor and summer gardens make it a standout bulb worth growing long term.
Why Amaryllis is the Ultimate Showstopper
The amaryllis knows how to command a room. Its oversized blooms—sometimes spanning 8 inches across—are an instant focal point whether placed on a holiday table or brightening a windowsill in midwinter. From rich reds to striped, double-petaled wonders, each variety feels like nature’s artwork brought indoors. Best of all, amaryllis can bloom indoors when most of the garden is asleep, giving us a welcome burst of color during the darkest months.
The Year-Round Appeal of Amaryllis Blooms
Though many associate amaryllis with December festivities, their beauty isn’t confined to winter. With the right care, they can bloom at different times of the year—spring, summer, even autumn. Indoors, they act as cheerful companions on gloomy days. Outdoors, they mingle seamlessly with summer perennials, offering a touch of drama that few other bulbs can match. This adaptability makes amaryllis one of the most rewarding plants to keep.
How to Grow Amaryllis Indoors and Outdoors
When and How to Plant Amaryllis Indoors
Amaryllis bulbs can be planted indoors from late fall through early spring. Choose a pot about 6 inches across with good drainage, and position the bulb so its top third peeks above the soil. Water sparingly at first, then increase once growth begins. Place it in bright, indirect sunlight, and within weeks you’ll have tall green shoots and soon—blooms!
Outdoor Planting Tips for Amaryllis
In warm climates (zones 9–11), amaryllis thrives outdoors. Plant them in full sun to partial shade after frost danger passes. Keep the bulb neck above the soil surface, and space bulbs 12 inches apart. In cooler zones, you can still grow amaryllis outdoors in containers and move them inside before frost.
The Best Containers for Growing Amaryllis
Terracotta pots are excellent because they “breathe,” preventing excess moisture. Decorative ceramic or metal cachepots add flair, but make sure they have drainage holes. A heavy pot also helps balance the tall stems so they won’t topple once blooms appear.
Soil and Light Requirements for Optimal Growth
Amaryllis grows best in rich, well-draining soil. A mix of potting soil and perlite or sand helps prevent waterlogging, which can cause the bulb to rot. Place your potted amaryllis in a bright spot, ideally near a sunny window, where it can receive plenty of indirect light. Adequate sunlight ensures strong, healthy growth and vibrant blooms.
Caring for Your Amaryllis
Watering Tips
During the early growth phase, water lightly. Once the stalks are growing, keep the soil evenly moist but never soggy. Overwatering is the most common cause of bulb rot.
Fertilizing for Bold Blooms
Every 2–4 weeks, feed your amaryllis with a balanced liquid fertilizer. This ensures strong leaves and bigger flowers. Stop fertilizing when the plant begins its dormant phase.
Supporting Tall Stems
Stalks can grow up to 24 inches tall, so heavy blooms may need staking. Use bamboo stakes or decorative supports and tie stems loosely with garden twine.
Pest and Disease Prevention
Amaryllis is generally low-maintenance, but spider mites and aphids can sometimes appear. Treat them with insecticidal soap if necessary. Avoid fungal issues by keeping soil well-drained.
How to Rebloom Amaryllis Year After Year
How to Get Your Amaryllis to Bloom Again
After your amaryllis finishes blooming, don’t toss it out! With a little care, you can coax it to bloom again. Once the flowers fade, cut the stalk down to just above the bulb, but leave the leaves intact. Continue watering and feeding the plant until it goes dormant, usually in late summer. After a period of dormancy, you can begin the cycle again, and your amaryllis will reward you with fresh blooms.
How to Care for Amaryllis After Blooming
Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, helps conserve energy for your amaryllis. Snip off faded blooms at the base of the flower stalk to redirect the plant’s energy into the bulb, setting the stage for future blooms. During this time, the leaves will continue to gather sunlight, preparing the bulb for its next growth cycle.
Storing Amaryllis Bulbs for Future Blooms
Once your amaryllis enters dormancy, it’s time to store the bulb for the next season. Allow the leaves to die back naturally, then gently remove the bulb from the soil. Store it in a cool, dark place—like a basement or garage—for at least 6-8 weeks. When you’re ready to restart the blooming process, replant the bulb, and with proper care, you’ll enjoy a fresh round of flowers.
Popular Amaryllis Varieties to Grow
From classic red blooms to modern hybrids, the diversity of amaryllis varieties is staggering.
Jumbo Amaryllis Royal Velvet
Unleash the regal beauty of Jumbo Amaryllis Royal Velvet! Its deep crimson petals radiate luxury and sophistication, making this amaryllis a statement piece for any holiday décor or indoor display. With blooms as rich as velvet and strikingly large, it’s a showstopper that’s sure to leave your guests in awe. Perfect for those who love bold, dramatic flowers, this easy-care bulb is a must-have for creating a stunning winter floral display.
Royal Velvet’s rich, velvety texture and intense crimson color give it a majestic presence that elevates any setting. Whether displayed in a sleek modern vase or nestled among holiday greens, its opulent blooms create an air of grandeur and timeless beauty, making it a favorite for winter floral arrangements.
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Jumbo Amaryllis Picotee
Delicate and sophisticated, Jumbo Amaryllis Picotee features pure white blooms elegantly edged in a thin ribbon of crimson. Its subtle yet striking contrast makes it the perfect flower for those who appreciate refined beauty. Whether you’re decorating for the holidays or brightening your living space, Picotee offers a timeless look that never goes out of style. Effortlessly stunning, this variety guarantees a dazzling display with minimal effort.
Each flower seems hand-painted with precision, giving Picotee an air of artistry that few blooms can match. The crimson edge perfectly frames the petals, creating a visual that’s both soft and bold. Its long-lasting blooms make it an excellent choice for winter displays, filling your home with beauty long after the holidays have passed.
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Jumbo Amaryllis Red Lion
Turn up the heat with the fiery blooms of Jumbo Amaryllis Red Lion! Its bold red petals are the epitome of elegance, adding a burst of energy to your home or garden. This classic amaryllis variety offers strikingly large, vibrant flowers that will instantly become the focal point of any room. Known for its robust growth and effortless care, Red Lion delivers dazzling blooms that last for weeks.
Red Lion’s radiant, fiery red blooms bring bold energy and warmth to any room or garden, instantly creating a vibrant focal point. Its impressive flower size and long-lasting blooms make it a standout choice for holiday décor or brightening up a winter space with a touch of dramatic flair.
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Jumbo Double Amaryllis Double Dream
Dream big with the lush, layered petals of Jumbo Double Amaryllis Double Dream! This beauty boasts soft pink, double blooms that create a romantic and dreamy atmosphere wherever they’re planted. With each flower looking like a perfectly crafted rosette, it’s the ultimate choice for anyone seeking abundant, voluminous blooms. Let Double Dream add a touch of whimsy and elegance to your home or garden.
Double Dream’s delicate pink layers create a soft, romantic ambiance, making it ideal for weddings or elegant indoor displays. Its full, rosette-shaped blooms offer a luxurious, voluminous appearance that draws the eye, turning any space into a dreamy, floral haven with its enchanting charm.
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Jumbo Double Amaryllis Nymph
Enchanting and lavish, Jumbo Double Amaryllis Nymph captivates with its soft, peachy-pink double blooms. Each blossom unfurls like a work of art, layered with delicate petals that bring a sense of romance and grandeur to any space. Its dreamy color and impressive size make it a favorite for creating show-stopping floral arrangements. Easy to grow, yet hard to forget.
The Nymph’s soft pink blooms are complemented by a subtle sheen, which gives each petal an almost ethereal glow under light. These showstopping flowers thrive indoors, effortlessly drawing admiration with their rich layers and romantic color. Whether displayed in a vase or left to bloom in a pot, they’re sure to be the center of attention.
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Jumbo Amaryllis Rilona
Embrace the warm, apricot tones of Jumbo Amaryllis Rilona! Its soft, peachy-orange petals are perfect for adding a warm, inviting glow to your indoor décor. With large, radiant blooms, Rilona is ideal for those who crave something a bit different yet equally stunning. Effortless to grow, it’s the perfect way to brighten up those dreary winter months.
Rilona’s blooms open to a stunning display of color, infusing warmth and a subtle hint of sunshine even in the coldest months. Its rich apricot hue stands apart from more traditional holiday amaryllis, making it a favorite among those who seek unique beauty. Effortless to grow, it’s the perfect variety to enjoy vibrant, long-lasting blooms without the fuss.
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Jumbo Double Amaryllis Amadeus Candy
Indulge in the sweet beauty of Jumbo Double Amaryllis Amadeus Candy! With its double layers of delicate white petals tinged with soft pink accents, this amaryllis is pure eye candy. It exudes charm and elegance, making it a top choice for romantic décor or holiday celebrations. Large, lush, and irresistibly beautiful, it’s a sweet treat for any home.
Amadeus Candy’s delicate pink blush adds a touch of romance to any room, especially during the holiday season. As the petals unfurl, they create a rosette-like effect that adds volume and elegance. Its soft, pastel tones make it the perfect complement to neutral or light-toned décor, filling your home with a sense of peace and sweetness.
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Jumbo Amaryllis Spartacus
Bold and beautiful, Jumbo Amaryllis Spartacus boasts striking red and white striped blooms that demand attention. Its gladiator-like appearance makes it a powerful addition to any room or garden. Whether you’re looking to make a holiday statement or just love dramatic florals, Spartacus is ready to take the lead with its vibrant colors and massive blooms.
Spartacus lives up to its bold name with commanding blooms that feature intense color contrast and intricate striping. The oversized flowers tower above other varieties, delivering a showstopping display perfect for anyone who loves dramatic floral statements. Whether used as a centerpiece or part of a larger arrangement, Spartacus never fails to impress.
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Jumbo Amaryllis Temptation
Get ready to fall in love with Jumbo Amaryllis Temptation! Its soft, velvety petals blend pink and white in a romantic swirl that’s hard to resist. Each massive bloom feels like an invitation to indulge in pure beauty, making it the perfect centerpiece for your home. With Temptation, you’re guaranteed weeks of floral enchantment with minimal care.
Temptation’s luxurious blooms evoke a sense of romance and charm, making it ideal for cozy, intimate spaces. The subtle gradation of color adds depth, giving each bloom a soft, painterly quality. With its low maintenance and long-lasting flowers, Temptation promises to be a perennial favorite in both style and ease.
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Double Amaryllis Dancing Queen
Let your garden or indoor space burst with joy with Double Amaryllis Dancing Queen! Its flamboyant red and white striped petals twirl like a dancer’s skirt, creating an energetic and fun atmosphere. With its large double blooms, Dancing Queen is the life of the party, perfect for adding a festive, playful touch to your floral displays.
The swirling red and white patterns of Dancing Queen create a mesmerizing display, giving each bloom a dynamic, joyful presence. Its long-lasting flowers bring energy and fun to any holiday or celebratory event, making it the perfect centerpiece for parties or festive occasions.
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Jumbo Amaryllis Lagoon Pink
Bask in the soft, serene beauty of Jumbo Amaryllis Lagoon Pink! With delicate pink blooms that evoke the peacefulness of a quiet lagoon, this variety is perfect for creating a tranquil atmosphere. Its large flowers and gentle color make it an ideal choice for spring décor or a calming indoor display.
Lagoon Pink’s soft pastel blooms radiate a sense of calm and serenity, offering a soothing contrast to the colder, darker months. Its gentle blush tones make it the perfect choice for bedrooms or tranquil spaces, where it creates a peaceful, restful ambiance.
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Jumbo Double Amaryllis Lady Jane
Meet the refined beauty of Jumbo Double Amaryllis Lady Jane, a graceful flower with soft pink double blooms that evoke timeless elegance. Perfect for weddings or creating a sophisticated garden, Lady Jane is your go-to for chic, feminine beauty. Effortless and elegant.
Lady Jane’s soft, romantic blooms bring an air of refined sophistication to any floral arrangement, whether used in weddings, home décor, or special events. Its delicate layers of pink petals provide an understated elegance that complements both modern and traditional settings beautifully.
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Amaryllis as the Perfect Holiday Gift
Amaryllis bulbs make one of the easiest, most rewarding gifts for gardeners and non-gardeners alike. They require little care, yet deliver stunning results. Wrap one in festive paper, tuck it into a decorative pot, or pair it with planting instructions for a thoughtful, living gift. In 2025, gifting “grow-your-own” blooms is right on trend, as more people embrace meaningful, sustainable presents over throwaway trinkets.
Whether you grow them indoors to brighten the winter months or plant them outside to enjoy in summer, amaryllis rewards you with show-stopping beauty. They’re easy to grow, endlessly versatile, and captivating in every setting. Once you’ve experienced the joy of reblooming your bulbs, you’ll never toss them out again.
So, why not start your own amaryllis tradition this year? Choose a variety that speaks to you, plant it with care, and let the blooms dazzle you season after season.
FAQ: Growing Amaryllis Bulbs
What is an Amaryllis?
Amaryllis (Hippeastrum) is a bulbous plant native to South America, loved for its large, trumpet-shaped flowers and tall stems.
How do I plant amaryllis indoors?
Use a well-draining pot, plant the bulb with its top third above the soil, water lightly, and place in bright, indirect light.
When do amaryllis bloom?
Indoors, bulbs typically bloom 6–8 weeks after planting. Outdoors in warm climates, they bloom in late spring to summer.
Can I plant amaryllis outdoors in cooler zones?
Yes, but treat them like tender bulbs. Grow them in pots outdoors and bring them inside before frost.
How do I get amaryllis to rebloom?
After flowering, let the leaves grow until summer, then allow the bulb to go dormant for 8–10 weeks before replanting.
What are the best amaryllis varieties for beginners?
Red Lion, Royal Velvet, and Temptation are classic, reliable varieties for new growers.
How often should I water amaryllis?
Water sparingly until growth begins, then keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy.
What fertilizer is best for amaryllis?
A balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10 or similar) every 2–4 weeks during active growth.
Do amaryllis bulbs multiply?
Yes, mature bulbs often produce “offsets” or baby bulbs, which can be separated and grown into new plants.
Are amaryllis good gifts?
Absolutely—amaryllis bulbs are affordable, easy to grow, and produce spectacular blooms, making them a perfect holiday or hostess gift.
4 Responses
We have an amaryllis on a birch slice. Can we safely remove it and pot for the next season?
Yes, you can absolutely remove it and pot it up for next season. Gently take the bulb off the birch, brush away any glue or moss, and plant it in a pot with good drainage, leaving the top third of the bulb above the soil. Water lightly at first, then place it in bright light. After it finishes blooming, keep the leaves growing and feed it regularly so the bulb can recharge for next year. You’ve got a great chance of getting it to bloom again with a little care. ~ Amanda
I purchased red amaryllis bulbs prior to this past 2025 Christmas holiday for my own enjoyment and after the blooming cycle was complete, trimmed the bloom down to the bulb – leaving the leaves intact. These 12 bulbs were transplanted into long plastic planters that could be watered and have done well over this past Summer.
My concern is that the leaves have grown to great lengths (over 18 inches or more) and despite my regular watering of the bulbs and rotation of the planter orientation to the sun filled windows to encourage straighter growth, I know that the time is quickly approaching to prepare the bulbs for dormant / cooler storage for about 8 to 12 weeks before bringing out the bulbs to encourage regrowth.
The question is this: as the leaves start to turn yellow or die backwards towards the bulb, should I be trimming those leaves back? Or has the time of early fall and less daylight in Minnesota (late August) become necessary to trim back all of the leaves, remove the bulbs from the potting soil, and store away in a cooler room until Mid-November to begin encouraging regrowth of these beautiful plants?
This is a first-year experiment with 16 bulbs and I am hoping to have many red flowers in time for the upcoming holidays! What are your suggestions as your website is the first location that I’ve found ample care instructions and photographs.
Thank you for your time assisting a 77-year-old indoor gardener!
Yes, for your situation in Minnesota, I would plan to bring the bulbs into dormancy around mid-September if you’re hoping for Christmas blooms.
You don’t need to wait for all of those long green leaves to yellow naturally. Around early to mid-September, stop watering and let the foliage begin to die back. Once it has yellowed and started to collapse, trim it off and lift the bulbs from the soil. Let them dry for a few days, then store them somewhere cool, dark, and dry for about 8 to 12 weeks.
Since you’re aiming for holiday blooms, your timing will be especially important. I would start checking the bulbs in mid-November and pot them up when you’re ready to bring them out of dormancy.
And don’t worry about those 18-inch leaves! That’s a sign the bulbs have been actively growing and storing energy all summer. You’ve given them a wonderful growing season, which should help set them up for a beautiful Christmas display. 🌺🎄
Here’s a picture of one of my amaryllis hanging out with my begonias…in the shade no less! Thanks for getting in touch! Amanda
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