Amaryllis: The World's Flowering Holiday Favorite
Amaryllis Jewel
The first breeders of Hippeastrum bulbs lived in the Netherlands during the 18th century. These Dutch growers began to develop hybrids and cultivars from bulbs brought from Mexico and South America. In 1946 a group of Dutch growers moved to South Africa and began cultivation of bulbs there. Today, there are Hippeastrum bulbs being grown and developed in Australia, Japan, Israel, Brazil, India and the United States
Amaryllis Summertime
So as the winter months once again settle over the Northern Hemisphere, remember the flowers commonly known as amaryllis. Their many spectacular shapes and brilliant colors will add warmth and beauty to any home where a stark wintry landscape has once again temporarily taken over.
Follow OurAmazingPlanet or the latest in Earth science and exploration news on Twitter @OAPlanet. We're also on Facebook & Google+.
Sign up for the Live Science daily newsletter now
Get the world’s most fascinating discoveries delivered straight to your inbox.