Hippeastrum x johnsonii
Many amaryllis perform well along the coastal regions, but few match this bulb in its ability to withstand cold temperatures and poor soils. One of the most exciting and underutilized garden bulbs is the hardy amaryllis (Hippeastrum x johnsonii). Thanks to mass marketing over the nation, most of us only think of amaryllis only as forced product for Christmas, but many Houstonians and avid gardeners along the Gulf Coast and in California know that amaryllis will come back for them each year as perennials! Moving into colder regions, and in some areas even Zone 7, gardeners are well aware of one amaryllis that over winters - the April/May blooming red and white striped garden amaryllis found in many heirloom gardens.
It is believed to be the first hybrid amaryllis with a history dating back to the late 1700's, and gardeners in Texas who have had them form massive clumps with an explosion of red color would still say they are the best hybrid on the market. Even in such large clumps, the bloom capacity is not hindered in any way. The striking red trumpet shaped blooms with their white stripes are show stoppers in every sense of the word.
Johnson's amaryllis is another name for this bulb, in honor of the hybridizer and English watch maker, Mr. Johnson. The flower, especially in areas such as New Orleans and other Gulf Coast cities, is known as the St Joseph's lily.
Planting: Your hardy amaryllis comes growing in a 1 gallon pot, so plant it at the same level it is growing in the pot, with the neck of the bulb at or just above the soil surface. Don't bury the bulb too deep or it will be slow to bloom. Choose a spot with full sun to light afternoon shade and well-drained soil, and avoid areas where water stands. Space bulbs about 12-18 inches apart so the clumps have room to grow. Water well after planting. You can plant them in spring or fall.
How cold can they get?
Hint: if you lean in close enough, you will catch a slight spicy fragrance that is simply the icing on the cake, and makes these gorgeous blooms amazing as cut flowers.
