Hippeastrum, Genus, vittatum, Species,
- Genus & species
Striped amaryllis
Overview
Hippeastrum vittatum is a bulbous perennial in the Amaryllidaceae, native to the Andes of Peru. Bulbs are globose, 2–4 inches (5–10 cm) across, and produce 4–8 strap-shaped, arching leaves 12–24 inches (30–60 cm) long and 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) wide. Each bulb sends up a hollow, leafless flower stalk 18–24 inches (45–60 cm) tall, topped by an umbel of 2–6 flowers. Flowers are funnel-shaped to trumpet-shaped, 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) across, with six spreading tepals, white with broad red to crimson stripes and margins and a green throat. Overall height is 18–24 inches (45–60 cm) with a spread of 12–18 inches (30–45 cm). Seed capsules are three-lobed and 1–1.5 inches (2.5–4 cm) across, holding flat black seeds. Leaves decline during a dry or cool rest period of 8–12 weeks. All parts, and the bulb in particular, contain lycorine and related alkaloids that are toxic if eaten. Bulbs are damaged by frost, and the species is grown outdoors in USDA zones 9–11 and in containers elsewhere.
Native Range
The Andes of Peru, on rocky slopes and in open scrub at mid elevations.Suggested Uses
Grown as a flowering container plant on patios and windowsills, in pots 6–8 inches (15–20 cm) wide. Used in borders and beds in frost-free zones 9–11, spaced 8–12 inches (20–30 cm) apart.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height1'6" - 2'
Width/Spread1' - 1'6"
Bloom Information
Flowers open in spring (March–May) in the Northern Hemisphere, 6–8 weeks after the end of the rest period. Each stalk blooms for 2–3 weeks, with individual flowers lasting 5–7 days. Bulbs 3 or more years old produce a second stalk in some seasons. Seedlings flower 3–5 years after germination.
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
White with red to crimson stripes and marginsFoliage Description
Medium to dark greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Bulbs are set with the upper third exposed, in a container 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) wider than the bulb or outdoors in well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0. Light is bright, with 4–6 hours of direct sun, and temperatures of 65–75°F (18–24°C) support growth. Water is applied when the top 1 inch (2.5 cm) of mix is dry, and standing water rots the bulb base. Balanced fertilizer is applied every 3–4 weeks during leaf growth. Watering is reduced from late summer to autumn for a rest period of 8–12 weeks at 50–60°F (10–15°C). Bulbs are damaged by temperatures below 28°F (-2°C).Pruning
Flower stalks are cut at 1 inch (2.5 cm) above the bulb after the flowers fade. Leaves are left in place to die back naturally during the rest period and are removed when fully brown. Seed capsules are removed unless seed is wanted.Pruning Schedule
Prune: May–June
late springsummer
Container Growing
Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 1 gallons
