The Red Lion Amaryllis, with its large, trumpet-shaped, vibrant red blooms, is a popular choice for indoor gardening, particularly during winter. This striking plant brings a dramatic touch of color to any home. Its relative ease of care makes it accessible for gardeners of all experience levels.
Planting Your Red Lion Amaryllis
Selecting a healthy, firm bulb is the first step in growing a Red Lion Amaryllis. Choose a pot that is one to two inches wider than the bulb, ensuring it has drainage holes. A well-draining potting mix, such as one formulated for houseplants or bulbs, provides necessary support and aeration for root development, preventing waterlogging.
Position the bulb so one-third to one-half of its top remains exposed above the soil line. Gently firm the soil around the bulb. After potting, water thoroughly until water drains from the bottom. Place the newly planted amaryllis in a location with bright, indirect light to encourage root growth and flower stalk emergence.
Daily Care for Growing and Blooming
Once growth emerges, the Red Lion Amaryllis thrives in bright, indirect light, such as near a south-facing window with sheer curtains. Consistent light exposure supports robust stem and flower development. Maintain average room temperatures, between 65°F and 75°F (18°C and 24°C), to promote healthy growth. Fluctuations outside this range can stress the plant and impede blooming.
Watering should be consistent, keeping the potting mix evenly moist but never saturated. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out slightly before watering again, preventing root rot. As the flower stalk elongates and leaves appear, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, every two to four weeks. This provides nutrients to support the plant’s blooming process.
Rotate the pot regularly for even light exposure, which helps the flower stalk grow straight and prevents leaning. Provide a stake for taller stalks to support them, preventing toppling due to the weight of large blooms.
After the Bloom Fades
Once blooms begin to wither, transition the plant to its next care phase. Snip off spent flowers to prevent the plant from expending energy on seed production. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruners to cut individual flowers at their base. After all flowers fade, cut the entire flower stalk back to about an inch above the bulb.
Do not remove the green foliage, as these leaves are crucial for the bulb’s energy storage. Continue to water and fertilize regularly throughout spring and summer while leaves are actively growing. This allows the bulb to photosynthesize and accumulate energy reserves for subsequent blooming cycles. Moving the plant outdoors to a partially shaded location during warmer months can further enhance energy accumulation.
Getting Your Amaryllis to Rebloom
Encouraging a Red Lion Amaryllis to rebloom requires a dormancy period. Around late summer or early fall, typically September or October, gradually reduce watering as leaves yellow and die back. Once foliage has completely faded, cease watering. This signals the bulb to enter its resting phase.
Move the dormant bulb, still in its pot, to a cool, dark location where temperatures remain between 50°F and 55°F (10°C and 13°C). A basement or cool closet provides suitable conditions. Allow the bulb to rest for eight to twelve weeks. After dormancy, bring the pot back into a warmer, brighter environment and resume watering to initiate a new blooming cycle.
Troubleshooting Common Amaryllis Issues
Yellowing leaves on a Red Lion Amaryllis can indicate either overwatering or a nutrient deficiency. Consistently soggy soil can lead to root discoloration due to lack of oxygen. A lack of essential nutrients also causes foliage to appear pale or yellow, especially if the plant has not been fertilized during active growth. Adjusting watering habits and ensuring regular fertilization can resolve these issues.
A lack of blooming might stem from an insufficient dormancy period or inadequate light exposure during the growth phase. Amaryllis bulbs require a cool, dark rest to prepare for reblooming. If the plant does not receive enough bright, indirect light during active growth, it may not produce a flower stalk. Common pests like mealybugs or spider mites can appear on amaryllis foliage. These are identified by cottony masses or fine webbing on the leaves and can be managed by gently wiping affected areas with a damp cloth or applying a mild insecticidal soap.