#YouShouldGrowThis: The amaryllis isn't just for Christmas

CBC gardening columnist Lyndon Penner explains why you should grow amaryllis.

Now is to the time to buy the bulbs for a splash of colour in the winter

Lyndon Penner · for CBC News · Posted: Oct 25, 2015 3:00 PM EDT | Last Updated: October 25, 2015

This is an unusual green flowered amaryllis I grew last year called 'Emerald'. (Lyndon Penner)

Amaryllis belladonna is actually the only one true species of amaryllis. The sensational flowering house plant we call amaryllis is actually Hippeastrum.

Native to a wide variety of habitats from damp jungles to mountainsides, the hippeastrums were previously classified as amaryllis. Even though they aren't anymore, the name persists. They are mass produced all over the world and are especially popular around Christmas and during the winter months. They are extremely easy to grow, inexpensive and widely available in an assortment of colours.

Amaryllis belladonna is the true amaryllis. It smells like cheap candy. (Lyndon Penner)

The Dutch took an interest in these plants in the 18th century and were quick to discover not only how easy they are to grow in pots, but also how stunningly beautiful they are and how easy they are to breed. These plants can easily be propagated by division or by seed and are very rewarding to grow.

Save your bulbs for another year

Hippeastrums will flower in the winter, and after blooming, the spent flower stalks should be removed. Put them outside in a shady spot for the summer and feed heavily. If they are brought indoors in the fall, they should be given no water and allowed to yellow and die naturally. Keep them as cool as possible without freezing them. They can be repotted in midwinter and will flower soon after.

Hippeastrums like fast-draining, well-oxygenated soil and should be grown in sturdy pots that will not tip over under the weight of the blossoms. They are also cheap enough that they can be grown as seasonal or annual plants.

Many plants in the Amaryllis family are toxic if eaten- Lyndon Penner

Many plants in the Amaryllis family are toxic if eaten and Hippeastrum is among the most so. Although the bulb is by far the most toxic part of the plant, all parts including stems, leaves, and flowers can cause poisoning.

You'll find different price points for amaryllis (hippeastrum) bulbs. The bigger the bulb, the more expensive it will be, but bigger also means larger flowers and more of them. I say go big or go home!