But this unusual weather has not fooled the flowering of the Hippeastrum Lilies as their buds are popping up and the flowers are opening. These lilies are more commonly known as Amaryllis and the confusion arises due to their similarity. The origin of the former is from Central and South America and there are 75 species in the genus, while the latter, the Amaryllis, is from South Africa and is a genus of one single bulb species.    

Over many decades plant breeders have produced many hybrids with large blooms in varying shades of red, pink, orange and white often with striping, all of which are very attractive.

Hippeastrum are easily grown and are best in either full sun or dappled shade, either as a pot plant or in the garden border. They need to be planted in well-draining soil with the bulb half buried. Add a little compost and bone meal when planting as these will enhance their growth. If using as a pot plant, select a large pot, at least 25 cm in diameter, as it is a large plant when in full leaf and flower. If using an even larger pot, 2 or 3 bulbs could be planted together.  

For the best flower display, it is advisable to rest the plants between flowerings. After flowering, reduce watering and let the leaves wither away. This can be done naturally by simply following the seasons here in East Africa. During the dry weather all that will be seen is the top of the bulb and the next flush of leaves will appear after the first rains. The plants will continue to perform if kept continually watered but the flower display will not be so impressive.

The garden centre at Plants Galore has a good stock of Hippeastrum in many colours. If they are not on display when you visit please ask at the shop as they can be ordered and brought from our parent nursery.

Plants Galore Garden Centre
Directions: Use the Limuru Road from Muthaiga and continue past the Village Market and the turning into Runda.  200 m beyond the Runda turning take the murram track on the right hand side, where there is a Plants Galore sign board. After the bridge over the river fork right; the Centre is 100 m on the right. You can’t miss it! Telephone: 0773 612589. Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.