Hippeastrum – Dark Red Amaryllis

Description

Hippeastrum – Dark Red Amaryllis

Family: Amaryllidaceae
Packet: 10 seeds

Description

This dark-red Hippeastrum seed selection comes from plants with striking deep-red trumpet-shaped flowers. Hippeastrums, commonly sold as amaryllis, are bulb-forming perennials valued for prominent flowers on stout stems and broad strap-like leaves. Seed-grown plants vary genetically, and the precise shade of red cannot be guaranteed.

Key Features

• Flowers: Large, trumpet-shaped dark red blooms on the parent selection.
• Foliage: Long green strap-like leaves.
• Habit: Flowering bulb perennial suited to containers and sheltered gardens.

Growing Conditions

• Position: Bright, filtered light or gentle morning sun; protect young seedlings from harsh sunlight and frost.
• Soil: Free-draining seed-raising mix or fertile, well-drained potting medium.
• Water: Keep evenly moist while seedlings establish, without saturating the mix.
• Climate: Warm, sheltered conditions suit seed raising; established plants can be grown in pots or suitable mild-climate gardens.

Seed Propagation

1. Seed: Use the flat, papery, dark seed promptly; no nicking or scratching the seed coat is generally required.
2. Sow: Lay seed on moist, free-draining seed-raising mix and cover only very lightly.
3. Conditions: Keep at approximately 21–25°C in bright, indirect light and maintain gentle moisture.
4. Germination: Roots may appear within 2–6 weeks, although timing varies; pot on carefully as small bulbs form.

Germination times are approximate. Hippeastrum seedlings take several years to reach flowering size and may not reproduce the exact colour of the parent plants.

Germination advice: These instructions are a recommended guide. Germination results and timing may vary depending on seed freshness, storage, temperature and growing conditions. Alternative propagation methods may also be successful.