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Description
The Hippeastrum Snow Queen is a bulbous perennial plant that is also commonly known as the Amaryllis Snow Queen. It is a hybrid cultivar that is a cross between Hippeastrum papilio and Hippeastrum vittatum. The plant produces large, showy flowers that are typically white with bright green stripes, and each stem can hold up to six flowers. The flowers bloom in mid-winter, making it a popular choice for holiday decorations.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Monocots |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus | Hippeastrum |
Appearance
The Hippeastrum Snow Queen can grow up to 18 inches tall and has a spread of up to 12 inches. The leaves are long and strap-like, and they can grow up to 24 inches long and 2 inches wide. The flowers are trumpet-shaped and can reach up to 8 inches in diameter. The white petals are accented with bright green stripes and a central greenish-yellow throat. The bulbs are large and can grow up to 5 inches in diameter.
Care Guide
The Hippeastrum Snow Queen is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy and thriving:
Water: Water your Hippeastrum Snow Queen thoroughly when the soil is dry to the touch. Be careful not to overwater, as this can cause the bulb to rot. During the growing season, water the plant more frequently, but reduce watering during the dormant season.
Fertilization: Fertilize your Hippeastrum Snow Queen every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Stop fertilizing during the dormant season.
Soil: Plant your Hippeastrum Snow Queen in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil pH range of 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal.
Sunlight: The Hippeastrum Snow Queen prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves.
Hardiness Zones: The Hippeastrum Snow Queen is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11. In colder climates, it is best to grow the plant indoors or in a greenhouse.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Hippeastrum Snow Queen is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, here are some common issues to watch out for:
Spider Mites: Spider mites can be a problem, especially if the air is dry. If you notice signs of spider mites, such as webbing or tiny, reddish-brown specks on the leaves, spray the plant with a solution of water and neem oil.
Gray Mold: Gray mold can be a problem if the plant is overwatered or if the air is too humid. If you notice grayish-brown mold on the leaves, remove the affected leaves and reduce watering.
Habitat
The Hippeastrum Snow Queen is native to South America, where it grows in tropical and subtropical regions. It prefers well-draining soil and bright, indirect sunlight.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I plant the Hippeastrum Snow Queen outdoors?
A: The Hippeastrum Snow Queen is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11, so it can be planted outdoors in these zones. However, it is best to grow the plant indoors or in a greenhouse in colder climates.
Q: How often should I water my Hippeastrum Snow Queen?
A: Water your Hippeastrum Snow Queen thoroughly when the soil is dry to the touch. During the growing season, water the plant more frequently, but reduce watering during the dormant season.
Q: How do I fertilize my Hippeastrum Snow Queen?
A: Fertilize your Hippeastrum Snow Queen every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Stop fertilizing during the dormant season.
Q: How can I propagate my Hippeastrum Snow Queen?
A: The Hippeastrum Snow Queen can be propagated by removing and replanting the offsets that develop around the base of the bulb. Allow the offsets to dry for a day or two before planting them in well-draining soil.
Related Plants
- Hippeastrum Amaryllis
- Hippeastrum Red Lion
- Hippeastrum Rilona
- Hippeastrum Papilio
References
- “Hippeastrum ‘Snow Queen’.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed July 14, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b192.
- “Hippeastrum ‘Snow Queen’.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed July 14, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/157926/Hippeastrum-Snow-Queen-(H-Red-Queen-x-H-papilio)/Details.
- “Hippeastrum ‘Snow Queen’.” Gardenia. Accessed July 14, 2021. https://www.gardenia.net/plant/hippeastrum-snow-queen.
