As winter's chill sets in across Canada, many turn to indoor plants to add warmth and vibrant colour to their homes. One standout choice for the season is the amaryllis, known for its large, joyful blooms in bold and multi-coloured hues. While not fragrant, these flowers offer a visual feast that can brighten a windowsill, become a festive centrepiece, or lift spirits on dreary days.
Choosing the Perfect Bulb or Plant
Selecting a healthy amaryllis bulb or pre-potted plant is key to enjoying long-lasting blooms throughout the holiday season. Gardener Penka Matanska advises looking for bulbs with stems just beginning to emerge and two or more plump clusters of flower buds. This signals a longer display ahead. The timeline from bulb to bloom is typically six to eight weeks, though already-potted amaryllis will flower three to four weeks faster.
When buying, seek out varieties with strong, upright stems that won't droop under the weight of the spectacular flowers. Interestingly, bulbs and plants purchased from stores do not require fertilizer to produce their beautiful display.
Ideal Growing Conditions for Canadian Homes
Amaryllis plants sold locally, commonly from the genus Hippeastrum, originate in tropical and subtropical regions of South America. In Canada, they are exclusively grown as houseplants. To mimic their ideal environment, place your amaryllis in a spot with plenty of indirect light. Direct sun may shorten the blooming period.
If your home's temperature is on the warmer side, positioning the plant by a cooler window at night can help. This simple trick can extend the life of those magnificent flowers.
A Rainbow of Varieties and Creative Displays
The diversity of amaryllis flowers is remarkable, ranging from pure white and pastel pink to bright red. Each trumpet-shaped bloom typically features six petals with bright yellow stamens emerging from the centre. Glossy green, strap-like leaves grow from the bulb, sometimes appearing before or alongside the flower stalk.
Some modern bulbs are even coated in wax, creating a self-sustained system that requires no soil or water to bloom. The wax seal prevents the bulb from drying out.
Part of the joy, as Matanska shares, is experimenting with new varieties and planning creative arrangements. Combining amaryllis with other greenery like painted fern or Goldcrest cypress can create stunning holiday displays for your table or as a gift. Their sturdy stems also make them excellent candidates for cut floral arrangements in vases.
By following these simple guidelines, you can successfully cultivate these stunning blooms, bringing a burst of colour and a touch of spring to your Canadian home during the long winter months.
