Hippeastrum Red Lion - Amaryllis

Amaryllis 'Red Lion' is often the most sought-after variety of Hippeastrum to adorn the Christmas table, due to its deep red colour, which is unique. This ancient variety is a classic of its kind, a timeless plant that offers immense, flared flowers in a vibrant, silky, and perfectly uniform red. Adopting it and making it bloom in the house is child's play, and it brings a touch of welcome tropical lushness during the shortest days of winter!

Native to the subtropical regions of Central and South America, Hippeastrum plants are frost-sensitive and belong to the Amaryllidaceae family. They are generally grown in pots in our latitudes. When in full bloom, the 'Red Lion' variety forms a clump 50 to 60 cm (20 to 24in) in height and 30 cm (12in) in width. It offers funnel-shaped flowers, up to 20 cm (8in) in diameter, composed of 6 wide and thick petals, with a silky texture, in a scarlet red colour. The heart of the flower is also red, releasing a bouquet of long, curved stamens in the same tone. 4 to 6 flowers surmount a tall and thick hollow stem. Positioned back to back, they form a unique composition together.

Planting an Amaryllis is a very rewarding experience. The Hippeastrum is very easy to grow and its growth is extremely fast; 6 to 10 weeks after planting, the flowers are already blooming. You can enjoy them throughout the winter. If you want to give it as a Christmas gift, remember to plant it at the beginning of November. The Red Lion variety pairs well with the 'Amputo' Amaryllis, which is pure white and infinitely light, as well as with holly or fern foliage in a bouquet. Preferably place it in the sun in front of a window, for example. Trim the stem when the flowers have faded to encourage new flower growth.

If there is confusion between Amaryllis and Hippeastrum, it is because Linnaeus gave the same name to this species native to South America as to another species native to South Africa. Since then, by convention, it is appropriate to use the name Hippeastrum for the American Amaryllis and Belladonna for the South African Amaryllis.