International Flower Bulb Centre
Family
Amaryllidaceae
Botanical Name
Hippeastrum papilio
Plant Common Name
Butterfly Amaryllis
General Description
The fragrant flowers of butterfly amaryllis have large petals of white with burgundy red stripes and markings. The common name refers to floral appearance: three of the six petals are held firmly but the other three flop and droop resembling a cluster of resting butterflies. This Brazilian native blooms from late winter into spring and has evergreen foliage.
In frosty winter locales the long strappy leaves may die back, but in general this bulb doesn't need a dormant period to produce flowers. Tall upright flower stems support two to three white blooms with variable stripes of burgundy red. They have contrasting green throats from which emanate a floral tube and whisker-like stamens. Over time, the bulbs reproduce to create a clump of plants.
Grow the butterfly amaryllis in full sun to light shade and fertile loam or sandy soil enriched with organic matter. Water and fertilize evenly and consistently from spring to fall. There's no need to induce dormancy like the hybrid amaryllis sold at florist shops. A somewhat drier winter season is needed, however, so refrain from watering in the coldest months.
This is a lovely plant for indoor and outdoor containers. It also makes a fine garden specimen in frost-free regions.
Characteristics
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USDA Hardiness Zone
8 - 12
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Sunset Zone
H1, H2, 8, 9, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
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Plant Type
Bulb or Corm or Tuber
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Sun Exposure
Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade
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Height
18"-28" / 45.7cm - 71.1cm
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Width
1'-2' / 0.3m - 0.6m
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Native To
Brazil
Growing Conditions
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Soil pH
Acidic, Neutral
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Soil Drainage
Well Drained
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Soil type
Loam, Sand
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Growth Rate
Medium
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Water Requirements
Average Water
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Habit
Clump-Forming
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Seasonal Interest
Spring, Winter
Special Characteristics
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Usage
Container, Cutflower, Houseplant, Mixed Border, Tropical
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Sharp or Has Thorns
No
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Invasive
No
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Attracts
Hummingbirds
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Self-Sowing
No
