WHAT: Amaryllis belladonna, also called naked ladies, because it sends up a bare 18-inch tall stalk topped with fragrant pink trumpet-shaped flowers, is native to South Africa.
WHY PLANT IT: This amaryllis brings scent and color to the garden when it is least expected, after its leaves die back in midsummer.
It is long blooming, attractive to butterflies, and lovely as a cut flower.
WHERE: Hardy amaryllis should be planted in full sun in well-drained soil. It is extremely drought tolerant once established, but will appreciate occasional watering during dry weather.
When planting, incorporate bulb fertilizer into the soil for healthy and vigorous growth.
Once established, it thrives on neglect and is extremely long-lived. Deadhead the leaves as they die back in early summer.
SIZE: The deciduous plant achieves about 1 and a half feet in height and width.
LEARN MORE: www.greatplantpicks.org.
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