Contents
Description
The Amaryllis Exotic Star, also known as Hippeastrum ‘Exotic Star’, is a stunning bulbous flowering plant that belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family. Native to South America, this plant has become a popular houseplant worldwide due to its striking blooms and ease of care. The plant produces large, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom in shades of pink, red, and white, with each flower having a diameter of up to 8 inches.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus | Hippeastrum |
Appearance
The Amaryllis Exotic Star can reach a height of up to 20 inches and a width of up to 12 inches. The plant has long, strap-like leaves that can grow up to 2 feet long and 2 inches wide. The leaves are glossy and dark green in color. The plant produces a tall, sturdy stem that can hold up to 4 flowers at a time. The flowers are large, trumpet-shaped, and have a diameter of up to 8 inches. They come in shades of pink, red, and white, with each flower having a distinctive star shape in the center.
Care Guide
Water
The Amaryllis Exotic Star prefers well-draining soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the dormant season.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Stop fertilizing during the dormant season.
Soil
The Amaryllis Exotic Star requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a soil mix that is designed for bulbs or add compost to the soil to improve drainage and nutrient content.
Sunlight
The Amaryllis Exotic Star requires bright, indirect sunlight for optimal growth and blooming. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the plant’s leaves.
Hardiness Zones
The Amaryllis Exotic Star is hardy in USDA zones 9 through 11. In colder zones, the plant should be grown as a houseplant or brought indoors during the winter.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Amaryllis Exotic Star is prone to mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids. To prevent infestations, inspect the plant regularly and use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control pests. The plant is also susceptible to root rot, which can be caused by overwatering or poor drainage.
Habitat
The Amaryllis Exotic Star is native to South America, where it grows in tropical and subtropical regions. The plant prefers warm temperatures and high humidity, and it thrives in well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Amaryllis Exotic Star?
A: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the dormant season.
Q: What is the best soil mix for the Amaryllis Exotic Star?
A: The plant requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a soil mix that is designed for bulbs or add compost to the soil to improve drainage and nutrient content.
Q: How do I fertilize my Amaryllis Exotic Star?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Stop fertilizing during the dormant season.
Q: What is the best temperature range for the Amaryllis Exotic Star?
A: The plant prefers warm temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
Related Plants
- Hippeastrum Amaryllis
- Hippeastrum Minerva
- Hippeastrum Papilio
- Hippeastrum Apple Blossom
- Hippeastrum Red Lion
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/amaryllis-hippeastrum/amaryllis-care-instructions-how-to-care-for-an-amaryllis.htm
- https://www.houseplantsexpert.com/amaryllis-hippeastrum-exotic-star.html
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/hippeastrum-amaryllis-exotic-star
