Barbados Lily - Uses & Care

Botanical name: Hippeastrum Striatum

Humidity Dry	Lighting Part Sun	Temperature Min 4°C
Difficulty Medium	Hardiness Zone 8-11	Flowering Time Spring

• The Hippeastrum genus has 75 species, commonly called Amaryllis.

•  Most originate from tropical South America and are hybrids.

•  This beautiful perennial bulbous plant thrives year-round in warm climates, indoors, or greenhouses.

•  It grows 3 to 6 glossy, strap-like leaves.

•  Each stem produces 2 trumpet-shaped blooms lasting 4-7 days.

•  The Barbados lily attracts pollinators with its fragrant flowers.

•  The bulb has medicinal uses against asthma, bronchitis, constipation, and respiratory issues, due to its Galanthamine and Lycorine content.

•  In India, fresh bulbs are used for wound healing, tumours, and piles.

• In folklore, the vibrant red and green colors of the Barbados Lily are associated with passion and vitality, making it suitable for spells or rituals aimed at attracting love or enhancing existing relationships.

  
  

Water

Just give the plant a little water until you see new leaves popping up, and then start watering it regularly. Keep the soil damp, but make sure not to let water collect in the saucer. It is drought tolerant.

A Barbados Lily planted in a 12.7-cm pot and kept out of direct sunlight requires approximately 0.8 cups of water every 9 days.

Sunlight

It needs full sun. They do best in long-lasting, direct light and should be less than 1 foot from a window.

Fertilizer

Incorporate a slow-release fertilizer into the soil when planting the bulb. Then, apply a bulb fertilizer every two to three weeks throughout the spring growing season to support healthy growth and flowering.

Soil

Well drained soil, Loam to Sandy loam. To ensure your Barbados Lily has adequate nutrients, repot it either annually or whenever it doubles in size, whichever occurs sooner.

Temperature

The Striped Barbados Lily is native to regions with temperatures ranging from 59 to 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 38 degrees Celsius). However, it thrives best in a warm and humid environment with temperatures between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit (15.5 to 29.4 degrees Celsius).

Pruning

Barbados Lily doesn't require regular pruning. However, remove any spent flower stalks after blooming to encourage the plant to focus energy on bulb development. The Lily can be propagated by separating the bulbs.

Pests & Diseases

Barbados Lily is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, watch out for mealybugs, scale insects, and bulb rot. Ensure good air circulation around the plants and avoid overwatering to prevent fungal issues.

Companion Planting

While Barbados Lily is often grown as a standalone specimen, it can be paired with other flowering bulbs like daffodils or tulips for a colorful display. Consider planting it with low-growing, shade-tolerant groundcovers like ferns or hostas to enhance the overall visual appeal.