How Long Does an Amaryllis Bulb Last? A Guide to Caring for These Spectacular Flowers

Amaryllis bulbs produce absolutely stunning blooms around the holidays that can brighten up any home. Their huge trumpet-shaped flowers come in a variety of gorgeous colors like crimson pink, white, and salmon. And with proper care, a single amaryllis bulb can keep blooming for decades, becoming a cherished living heirloom passed down through generations.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the lifespan of amaryllis bulbs and how to care for them so they’ll bloom year after year.

Overview of Amaryllis Bulb Lifespan

Amaryllis bulbs are exceptionally long-lived, even though the flowers fade each season. A bulb can be brought back into bloom for at least 20 years or more, if cared for properly. There are stories of bulbs becoming family heirlooms, being passed down from mother to daughter, from grandmother to granddaughter.

The key is to provide conditions that mimic the bulb’s native tropical habitat after flowering is finished. This allows the bulb to recharge and store up energy for next year’s bloom. It’s a simple process, but each step is important for the bulb’s health and longevity.

Choosing High Quality Bulbs

You want to start with the highest quality amaryllis bulbs possible, as they will produce the largest, most spectacular flowers and live the longest. Look for bulbs that are large, firm, and unblemished. Avoid any that are shriveled, moldy, or have soft spots. The biggest, healthiest bulbs will give the best blooms and live the longest.

Invest in the largest premium bulbs you can afford, at least 2 inches or more in diameter. Bulbs sold in garden centers are usually a better bet than inexpensive grocery store bulbs. Specialty amaryllis from reputable online sellers are also a great option.

Planting Amaryllis Bulbs

Plant bulbs in a container not much wider than the bulb itself. Choose a heavy pot that will support the tall, top-heavy blooms. Make sure the pot has drainage holes.

Use a well-drained potting mix, not garden soil which stays too wet. Place some mix in the bottom of the pot and set the bulb on top of it, roots down. Leave about 1/3 of the bulb exposed above the soil line. Add more mix around the bulb, leaving just the very top of the bulb poking out.

Water sparingly at first, keeping the soil just slightly moist until sprouts emerge. Once growth begins, water regularly to keep the soil moderately moist but not soggy wet.

Caring for Amaryllis During Winter Bloom

Place bulbs in a bright spot out of direct sun. Turn the pot periodically so stems grow straight. Tall varieties may need staking to prevent flopping.

Keep soil moist but not constantly wet while leaves and flowers are growing. Apply houseplant fertilizer every 2-4 weeks. Prolong bloom by moving plants to a cooler spot after flowers open.

When blooms are finished, cut off faded flower stalks but leave the foliage. Continue caring for the plant as a houseplant while the leaves replenish the bulb to set buds for next year.

Getting Amaryllis to Rebloom

The key to getting amaryllis to rebloom year after year is proper care after flowering.

Keep watering and fertilizing the plant through the summer as the leaves photosynthesize. You can move pots outdoors in warm weather. In fall, allow the leaves to yellow and die back naturally as you withhold water.

Once all foliage has died back, cut off the dead leaves and place the dormant bulb in a cool, dark place for 6-8 weeks. A temperature around 50°F is ideal for this important dormancy period.

After the rest period, cut off any dried roots or hulls, repot in fresh mix if needed, water sparingly, and move back to a sunny window. Be patient for leaves and bloom stalks to re-emerge.

Troubleshooting Issues

If bulbs fail to bloom, it’s usually because they didn’t get the required dormancy period. Try chilling bulbs for at least 8 weeks before restarting.

Leaning flower stalks need more sunlight or support from stakes. Flopped blooms won’t recover, so stake amaryllis early.

If leaves emerge but no flower stalk, be patient—florets often follow. Make sure the plant gets adequate sunlight.

Bulbs that don’t grow at all may have rotted from overwatering. Inspect bulbs and re-plant healthy ones in fresh, well-draining mix.

Displaying Amaryllis

Amaryllis make exceptional cut flowers that can last up to two weeks. Cut blooms once the first flower has opened fully. Re-cut under water every few days and change the water daily.

For dramatic displays, plant multiple bulbs together in one large pot. Or combine varieties with different bloom times.

Grow amaryllis in decorative cachepots or bulbs bowls. Pair them with evergreens, candles, and holiday decorations. Give potted amaryllis as festive gifts.

Enjoy Amaryllis Bulbs for Many Years

With the proper care after flowering, you can enjoy amaryllis from the same bulbs for 20 years or more. A little attention to their needs for dormancy and recharging ensures they’ll thrive and rebloom season after season. Amaryllis bulbs are some of the longest-lived bulbs around when given what they require. Follow these tips for amaryllis longevity, and you’ll be rewarded with spectacular winter blooms for many years to come.