Amaryllis Hippeastrum (Double Galaxy Group) 'Clown'
ABOUT
The Hippeastrum 'Clown' is a stunning variety that is sure to draw attention with its unique and vibrant flowers. It is characterized by large, showy blooms that exhibit a double form, giving them a full and opulent appearance. The petals of the 'Clown' flowers are quite spectacular, featuring bold stripes or brushstrokes of contrasting colors. The base color of the petals is typically a crisp white, which serves as a canvas for the dramatic red to pink stripes that adorn them. This striking pattern gives each flower a playful and cheerful look, reminiscent of a clown's attire, from which the cultivar takes its name. The flowers are shaped like large trumpets or funnels, radiating outwards and creating an almost star-like silhouette when viewed from above. In the center, the stamens are usually overshadowed by the prominence of the double petals, but they can still contribute to the flower's ornamental value with their subtle presence. The 'Clown' blooms atop sturdy, erect stalks which emerge from a bulb nestled at the base of the plant. These stalks are complemented by strap-shaped, dark green leaves that arch gracefully, framing the magnificent blooms and providing a lush backdrop for the floral display. Overall, the Hippeastrum 'Clown' makes for an elegant and joyful addition to any garden or indoor space, with its mesmerizing blossoms creating a focal point of vivid color and fascinating form.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae
Synonyms
Double Galaxy Amaryllis, Clown Amaryllis
Common names
Hippeastrum (Double Galaxy Group) 'Clown'
ToxicityTo humans
The Amaryllis 'Clown' is considered to have a low degree of toxicity to humans if ingested. Eating parts of this plant can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Skin contact with the sap can sometimes cause dermatitis in sensitive individuals. It is important that you avoid ingesting any part of the Amaryllis and keep it out of reach from children who may be tempted to eat it.
To pets
Amaryllis 'Clown' is toxic to pets, including cats and dogs, if ingested. Eating any part of the plant can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and sometimes anorexia. More severe cases may lead to tremors or lethargy. Urgent veterinary care is recommended if a pet is suspected of ingesting Amaryllis. Keep this plant out of reach of your pets to ensure their safety.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
South America
Benefits
General Benefits- Decorative Appeal: The Amaryllis 'Clown' has large, showy double flowers with vibrant colors that make it a standout decorative houseplant, brightening up indoor spaces.
- Easy to Grow: This plant is relatively low-maintenance, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels, including beginners.
- Long Blooming Period: Amaryllis 'Clown' has a lengthy flowering period that can last up to several weeks, providing long-lasting visual interest.
- Gift Potential: Amaryllis 'Clown' is a popular gift plant, especially during the holiday season, due to its festive appearance and ease of care.
- Forcing Ability: It can be "forced" to bloom indoors during the winter, offering a splash of color during the colder, darker months.
- Mental Well-being: Interacting with and caring for plants like the Amaryllis 'Clown' can contribute to reduced stress levels and increased feelings of well-being.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Amaryllis bulbs can be used in a technique called "twin-scaling" where they are cut into pieces to propagate new bulbs, offering a hands-on educational experience about plant reproduction.
- The large and sturdy leaves of the Amaryllis can be used in floral arrangements to provide a green backdrop for smaller flowers, enriching the aesthetic of the arrangement.
- When dried, the petals of the Amaryllis can be used to create natural confetti for festive occasions or eco-friendly celebrations.
- Amaryllis flowers may serve as a motif or inspiration for artists and designers, finding their way into textile patterns or jewelry designs.
- The stalks of Amaryllis, being quite firm, can be innovatively used as natural stakes or supports for weaker-stemmed plants in a garden.
- By floating cut Amaryllis flowers in a bowl of water, they can be displayed as a unique and captivating centerpiece for tables.
- Amaryllis can be part of a living color therapy ensemble due to their bright and striking flowers, which can be used to enhance mood and mental well-being.
- The plant's growth cycle, from bulb to bloom, makes it a useful educational tool to demonstrate the lifecycle of a flowering plant in classrooms or workshops.
- Amaryllis flowers can be used in photography as a subject for macro photography, teaching techniques, and providing stunning imagery due to their intricate details.
- The structural form of the Amaryllis flower can be studied and mimicked in various design fields, including architecture and engineering, to understand the natural structuring and designs.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiAmaryllis is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityAmaryllis is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Pride: The Hippeastrum, commonly known as Amaryllis, often symbolizes pride due to its tall and proud stance and its large, trumpet-shaped flowers.
- Beauty: Amaryllis is frequently associated with splendid beauty and stunning visual appearance, reflecting its showy blossoms that come in a variety of intense colors.
- Strength: With its sturdy stalk and resilience in growth, the Amaryllis also embodies strength and the ability to stand tall against adversity.
- Determination: The plant's growth from a bulb into a striking flower symbolizes determination and the will to overcome challenges.
- Affection: Given as a gift, Amaryllis can imply deep affection, with the receiver being someone special and admired.
WaterAmaryllis 'Clown' should be watered thoroughly whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which often equates to about once a week, though this can vary based on temperature and humidity. Use room temperature water and apply it directly to the soil until it begins to drain from the bottom of the pot. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water. During the active growing season, you may need to water more frequently, adjusting to provide roughly 1 gallon of water every 7 to 10 days, depending on pot size and environmental conditions.
LightAmaryllis 'Clown' thrives in bright, indirect light. It is best placed near a window that receives plenty of light but is shielded from direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. An east or west-facing window with a sheer curtain is ideal for providing the light conditions that amaryllis prefers.
TemperatureAmaryllis 'Clown' prefers a temperature range between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit during its growth period. It can survive minimum temperatures of the low 50s Fahrenheit when dormant, but should not be exposed to temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature for vigorous growth and bloom development is within the warmer part of its preferred range.
PruningPruning Amaryllis 'Clown' primarily involves removing spent flower stalks after blooming, cutting them back to just above the bulb. This should be done once the flowers have faded and the stalk turns yellow, which is generally once a year post-flowering. Additionally, remove any dead or damaged leaves to maintain the plant's health and appearance.
CleaningAs needed
SoilAmaryllis 'Clown' thrives in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mix consisting of two parts loam, one part perlite or coarse sand, and one part peat or well-rotted manure will support healthy growth. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0, for optimal nutrient uptake.
RepottingAmaryllis 'Clown' should be repotted every 3 to 4 years, or when the bulb outgrows its container, which is evident when roots begin to crowd or the bulb starts pushing up out of the soil.
Humidity & MistingAmaryllis 'Clown' prefers moderate humidity levels, around 40-60%. Avoid placing it in excessively dry conditions as this can impede its growth and flowering.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Amaryllis 'Clown' in bright light, away from drafts.
Outdoor
Plant Amaryllis 'Clown' in partial shade, sheltered from strong wind.
Hardiness zone
8-10 USDA
Life cycleThe Hippeastrum 'Clown', commonly known as Amaryllis, begins its life cycle as a bulb, which, when planted in soil and exposed to the right conditions of warmth and moisture, starts to develop roots and a shoot. The shoot grows, producing strap-shaped leaves and a thick flower stalk, which then blooms into large, showy double flowers that can be varied in colors, typically displaying shades of red, white, and pink with patterned markings. After flowering, which can last several weeks, the plant enters a period of photosynthesis where the leaves mature to replenish the bulb with nutrients. Once this vegetative phase is over, the leaves yellow and die back, signaling the plant's entry into dormancy, which requires a cool, dry resting period. After dormancy, the cycle restarts with the bulb initiating new growth and resuming its active growth phase, which leads to the production of a new flower stalk. The amaryllis can repeat this cycle for many years with proper care, blooming annually or more frequently depending on the environment and cultivation practices.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The most popular method for propagating the Hippeastrum 'Clown', commonly known as the Amaryllis, is through offsets, also known as daughter bulbs. This typically occurs after the bloom period in the spring or early summer, when the plant is still actively growing. Offsets that have formed at the base of the mother bulb can be carefully separated when they are a reasonable size, about a third to half the size of the parent bulb. To propagate, gently remove the offset using a clean, sharp knife, ensuring it has some roots attached. Allow the cut surface to dry for a day or two to callus over, which helps prevent rot. Plant the offset in a pot with well-draining soil, positioning it with the top third of the bulb above the soil surface. Water sparingly until signs of growth appear, then gradually increase watering as the new Amaryllis establishes itself.
