Amaryllis belladonna

Amaryllis belladonna is the true amaryllis, although the name is also commonly given to unrelated hippeastrum bulbs, which are grown indoors over winter. Amaryllis belladonna is a late-summer flowering bulb, bearing showy flowers on naked stems, before strap-like leaves appear in autumn. Grow it in large clumps, where its flowers can be fully appreciated. It makes a great planting partner for silver-grey leaved plants such as caryopteris.

For best results grow in full sun in moist but well-drained soil. Being half-hardy, it can be caught by early frosts, so ideally offer some protection such as planting bubs in front of a south-facing wall. Avoid disturbing the bulbs for a season or two, as they take a while to become established. In colder regions, grow Amaryllis belladonna in pots on the patio, which you can bring indoors over winter.