Barbados lily - Hippeastrum puniceum (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Barbados lily

Barbados lily (Hippeastrum puniceum) is a perennial that grows from a bulb and will grow from 30 to 46 cm tall. A prolific bloomer, it blooms most months of the year with large, 15 to 30 cm long, orange flowers. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers slightly acidic soil. Goes dormant after blooming.

Scientific classification

Species

Barbados lily (Hippeastrum puniceum)

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

30 cm to 46 cm

Plant Height

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Barbados lily

Distribution of Barbados lily

Distribution Map

Barbados lily is native to northern parts of South America. It has also gained a foothold beyond its original range, being introduced in parts of South and Southeast Asia, Oceania, Central America, and the Caribbean. This expansion includes areas with similar climates where it is now naturalized. Additionally, barbados lily has been cultivated in regions outside its native and introduced ranges.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Disturbed sites, old gardens

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Interesting Facts

The attractiveness of the barbados lily's large flowers has led to its being cultivated around the world. It has also gathered a wide range of purported health effects in different regions, including the ability to "aid seduction" in at least one area. These are likely unfounded, though, and consumption should be avoided because the barbados lily is relatively toxic.

Name Story

Barbados lily: The name, barbados lily, is somewhat misleading. It is not a member of the true lily family (genus: Lillium), and in fact doesn't even fall into the same scientific Order. In addition, the island of Barbados is only a very small part of its large native range throughout the tropics of Central and South America.

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Toxicity

Barbados lily contains lycorine, causing moderate toxicity in humans, cats, and dogs if ingested. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Immediate medical or veterinary attention is crucial for both humans and pets to manage symptoms. All parts of barbados lily are poisonous; preventive measures should be taken to avoid contact or consumption by pets or people.

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Care Guide for Barbados lily

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Barbados lily thrives in tropical, humid environments, requiring consistent moisture without waterlogging. Watering should occur weekly to meet its needs. As a popular indoor ornamental, barbados lily flourishes with warmth and light during the growing season, benefiting from attentive watering that mimics its natural habitat.

Fertilize: To enhance growth and blooms in barbados lily, apply high phosphorus fertilizers every 2-3 weeks during spring and summer. Switch to monthly in fall and stop in winter. Use on moist soil to prevent root damage, and adjust based on observed nutrient needs to avoid over-fertilization.

Pruning: Barbados lily features large, trumpet-shaped flowers. Prune faded stems in early spring to boost growth, and remove yellowing leaves for better air circulation. Avoid cutting green leaves to support next season's blooms. Late spring pruning maintains shape and health, enhancing flowering and overall growth.

Propagation: Barbados lily propagates easily by division. When clumps overcrowd, separate offsets from the parent bulb and replant in well-draining soil at the correct depth. Maintain consistent moisture and monitor for new growth to confirm successful propagation.

Repotting: Barbados lily requires excellent drainage in pots to thrive, ensuring that excess water does not accumulate, which can lead to root rot and other issues. Proper drainage is vital for maintaining overall plant health and promoting vigorous growth.

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