Amaryllis: The Ultimate Guide

These gorgeous flowers are the perfect way to ring in the Christmas season. If we didn't enjoy them so much in their pots, we'd be swapping out our angel on the tree for this star-shaped bloom.

If you're looking to mix things up when it comes to that floral but festive table arrangement or are looking for a gift for a loved one this may be the ultimate flower for you. Here's what you need to know about the oh-so-beautiful amaryllis when it comes to meanings, facts and how to care for this gorgeous flowering plant.

Amaryllis meaning

These stunning flowers are believed to mean pride, strength and determination as they stand tall above all other winter blooms. Amaryllis is also a Greek name which means 'to sparkle'. Very in keeping with the festive season when we throw glitter at literally everything.

Many flowers come with mysterious mythological stories attached to them and the amaryllis is no exception. Its blood-red shade has a tragic (of course) tale behind it, with the story of a nymph called Amaryllis and a handsome shepherd called Alteo.

The story goes that Amaryllis was in love with Alteo and planned to let him know just how strongly she felt by piercing her heart every day with a golden arrow. These days we reckon a swipe right will do.

Alteo wasn't that impressed by this gory declaration of love and on the 30th day, he opened his door to find a red amaryllis flower had grown in her place, from her blood.

Dramatic, maybe. Great story? Definitely.

We think it's one to share at the dinner table when someone compliments your stunning amaryllis plant on the mantlepiece.

Amaryllis colours

Generally, we associate amaryllis with its stunning red bloom, however, there’s much more to this beauty than meets the eye. From the traditional blood red through to stunning white and even variegated versions, there’s an Amaryllis for every colour palette.

We've broken down what each of these colours is said to symbolise below if you're looking for a Christmas gift with a special meaning.

Red amaryllis

Red amaryllis symbolise love, passion, and attraction. In Chinese culture, the red Amaryllis is considered to be a lucky flower.

White amaryllis

Like the red amaryllis, white is another popular version with associated meanings.

White embodies purity and spirituality, it’s also used to convey remembrance and sorrow for more sombre occasions.

Orange amaryllis

It’s believed orange amaryllis convey positive energy which leads to happiness and good health, so, it’s perfect as a houseplant to generate good vibes and positivity in your home.

Pink amaryllis

The meaning of pink amaryllis is more broad than any other colours. Pink can be seen as romantic but, in most situations it symbolises friendship. Pink amaryllis are the perfect gift to show your friends and family how much they mean to you.

Purple amaryllis

Amaryllis flowers in deep shades of purple are associated with royalty and spirituality. Great for that pal who is all about aligning chakras and reading tarot cards.

Yellow amaryllis

If you want to wish a loved one good luck then give them an amaryllis flower, whether it be for an exam they're prepping or if they're waiting for some big news.

Facts about amaryllis flowers

Amaryllis is (distantly) related to lilies – They're like second cousins or something. That's why they remind us so much of those popular blooms.

The bigger the bulb, the bigger the bloom – In the world of the amaryllis, size matters. If you're a gardener, look for large amaryllis bulbs that will give you more stalks and flowers.

Amaryllis come from the Hippeastrum family, which means knight's star – This is because of the flowers' shape. There are over 90 species of flower in the Hippeastrum family – that's a big brood!

Amaryllis bulbs can live for up to 75 years – You could enjoy the same flower, year after year, over an entire lifetime!

When do amaryllis bloom?

You'll find amaryllis is available to buy and enjoy between November and April but they're usually encouraged to flower just in time for the festive season. The perfect Christmas gift!

When they bloom, these stunning flowers should look their winter best for up to three weeks, whether you're enjoying them as a plant or as cuttings in an arrangement.

How to care for your amaryllis and get the most from your plant

If you've received an amaryllis plant – lucky you! Here's how to keep this beauty thriving throughout festive season and beyond.

Feature your amaryllis in a bright spot but not in direct sunlight – These blooms thrive in shade or partial light, amaryllis isn't a plant that's looking for a sun tan. Make sure you rotate the pot half a turn each day to ensure you amaryllis grows straight and true.

Avoid the fruit bowl – While it may look lovely filled with citrusy scented oranges and crisp red apples, fruit releases toxins that can make flowers wilt faster so keep your amaryllis away.

Choose a spot away from draughts – No flower likes a cold chill, that means moving your amaryllis away from doors and windows. Leave your pot in a warm place where it will get as much natural light as possible.

Water your plant every two weeks – When the flowers are in bloom keep your plant topped up every couple of weeks with water to ensure it stays looking strong. Amaryllis doesn't get thirsty easily, so check you're not drowning the soil and only give it water when the soil is dry to touch.

Be careful when cutting the stems – If you're taking cuttings from an amaryllis plant to spread some festive cheer, use a sharp knife and don't squish the stems because they're hollow.

Opt for a sturdy vase if you're using amaryllis cuttings – Amaryllis has big flower heads that need all the support they can get when cut and featured in a vase.

Flowering Period - Amaryllis will flower in around 7-10 weeks. During winter flowering time will be longer than in spring.

How to feature amaryllis in your home

We're big fans of finding new ways to enjoy flowers every day. Here, we've rounded up some ways to feature this stunning festive bloom in your home:

A festive wreath – Feature bright red amaryllis in that homemade wreath. Check out our guide to making an eco-friendly wreath here and enhance it with these bright red blooms.

As a Christmas tree decoration – Add that final festive touch by featuring cut amaryllis flowers in amongst your tree decorations, pushing the stems into the branches so just the red flower heads peek out. You'll need to do this Christmas morning for guests to enjoy on the day but it's a simple and effective way of featuring these blooms.

As a table arrangement – Let these flowers steal the show on your dining table, whether you've arranged a carb fuelled dinner party with your sibling or are setting the table for Christmas dinner with your nearest and dearest.

As a gift – This plant is a ready-made Christmas present with its festive colours, it doesn't even need wrapping up to be well received! Place it by the tree and give to a loved one on Christmas morning.

On the mantlepiece – Take amaryllis flowers and place these in amongst the foliage on the mantlepiece for a truly chic and stunning finish.

Enjoy amaryllis in your home this winter and be sure to check out our range of other Christmas flowers to add some floral festivities to your home.