Butterfly amaryllis (Hippeastrum papilio)

Butterfly amaryllis

Butterfly amaryllis is a flowering perennial herbaceous plant native to Southern Brazil that's also considered an endangered species. It has enormous, graceful flowers with soft cream petals and a greenish throat elegantly striped in maroon. Its been shown to be harmful to dogs, cats, and horses.

Scientific classification

Species

Butterfly amaryllis (Hippeastrum papilio)

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Fall, Late winter

Bloom Time

50 cm

Plant Height

20 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

White, Green, Purple

Flower Color

Green, White, Purple

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Images of Butterfly amaryllis

Quickly Identify Butterfly amaryllis

Blossoms are 6 inches (15 cm) wide, pale cream with maroon stripes.

Leaves are fleshy, strap-shaped, and measure about 2 feet (60 cm) in length.

Flowers borne atop sturdy stems above foliage, showcasing a chartreuse throat.

Produces sizable seed pods after flowering phase.

Slender evergreen leaves persist in mild climates, ensuring continual greenery.

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Care Guide for Butterfly amaryllis

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Butterfly amaryllis thrives in humid tropical rainforests, requiring weekly watering to maintain balanced moisture. As an evergreen, it retains foliage year-round, necessitating consistent hydration even in non-growing seasons to ensure optimal health.

Fertilize: Fertilize butterfly amaryllis every 2-4 weeks during growth, less during dormancy, using balanced nutrition fertilizers. Young plants require quarter-strength. Apply when soil is moist, avoiding foliage contact. Adjust frequency with seasons, less in winter, to promote strong growth and vibrant blooms.

Pruning: Butterfly amaryllis features stunning flowers, making it popular in gardens. Prune in spring post-flowering, removing spent blooms and yellowing foliage. Avoid cutting green leaves. Regular pruning promotes health, air circulation, and vibrant future blooms while removing dead leaves anytime is beneficial.

Propagation: Butterfly amaryllis is an exotic plant with butterfly-like appearance. It grows robustly from large bulbs and is propagated through bulb division. Ensure divisions include a basal plate for rooting. Use well-draining soil and indirect light, noting that blooming may take a few seasons.

Repotting: Repot butterfly amaryllis every 2-3 years, ideally post-bloom, using a pot slightly larger than the bulb's diameter. Provide bright, indirect light and maintain moderately moist soil for optimal growth, ensuring butterfly amaryllis's sustained elegance.

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