Amaryllis Belladonna

Description

Amaryllis Belladonna, commonly known as the “Naked Lady” or “Belladonna Lily,” is a stunning bulbous perennial plant that belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family. It is native to South Africa and is widely cultivated for its beautiful pink flowers that bloom in late summer or early autumn.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Amaryllis Belladonna grows up to 50-60cm in height and has long, strap-like green leaves that grow up to 50cm in length. The plant produces a tall, leafless stem that bears clusters of stunning pink flowers that are trumpet-shaped and up to 10cm in diameter. Each stem can produce up to 12 flowers, and the plant blooms for 2-3 weeks. The flowers are followed by seed pods that split open to release black seeds.

Care Guide

Amaryllis Belladonna prefers well-drained soil and a sunny location. Here are some care tips:

• Water: Water regularly during the growing season, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
• Soil: The plant prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0.
• Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to partial shade.
• Hardiness Zones: Amaryllis Belladonna is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.

Common Pests & Diseases

Amaryllis Belladonna is generally pest and disease-free. However, here are some common issues:

• Snails and slugs: These pests can damage the leaves and flowers. Use slug pellets or handpick the pests.
• Red spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing of the leaves. Use an insecticidal soap to control them.
• Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Ensure the soil is well-drained and the plant is not overwatered.

Habitat

Amaryllis Belladonna is native to South Africa and grows naturally in rocky areas, hillsides, and along streams. The plant prefers a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers.

Question and Answer

Q: How often should I water my Amaryllis Belladonna plant?
A: Water regularly during the growing season, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.

Q: Is Amaryllis Belladonna hardy?
A: Yes, it is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.

Q: What is the blooming season of Amaryllis Belladonna?
A: The plant blooms in late summer or early autumn.

Q: How tall does Amaryllis Belladonna grow?
A: It grows up to 50-60cm in height.

Related Plants

• Amaryllis paradisicola
• Amaryllis vittata
• Amaryllis belladonna var. major
• Amaryllis equestris

References

• “Amaryllis belladonna.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 2 June 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=k120>.
• “Amaryllis belladonna.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 2 June 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/1815/Amaryllis-belladonna/Details>.
• “Amaryllis belladonna.” The Spruce. Accessed 2 June 2021. <https://www.thespruce.com/growing-amaryllis-belladonna-1402226>.