Hippeastrum hybrid

These cultivated bulbous perennials are bred from species native to tropical and subtropical America. Breeders have developed hundreds of cultivars with single or double flowers in white, red, pink, salmon and other colors, including striped and contrasting-edged forms. Hollow, upright flower stalks often emerge before the strap-shaped leaves. Cultivated as garden ornamentals and potted flowering plants, these hybrids can be propagated by bulb offsets, which retain the parent’s traits. Seed-grown plants usually differ from their parents and may take up to six years to flower. The plant is poisonous if eaten, especially the bulbs. Photographed in Florida.