Amaryllis bulbs: Winter flowers on a houseplant that's perfect for gifts

In a few months, when winter days are short and color is craved indoors and out, the big, bold flowers of amaryllis can come to the rescue as a houseplant.

Amaryllis are surprisingly easy to grow indoors as a winter houseplant. Their colors range from brights to pastels and bi-colors. There are shades of red, orange, pink, white and even green. Amaryllis 'Monaco' (shown) is a vibrant cherry-red accented by a white eye and white stamens. 

All that’s needed to grow them inside is the large bulb, potting soil and a six- or seven-inch pot with a drainage hole, says horticulturist Christian Curless of Colorblends.com, which sells a broad selection of amaryllis and other fall-planted bulbs at wholesale prices. 

To begin, simply pot the bulb with its top third positioned above the soil line. Water well at planting, then water only as needed --  when the soil becomes dry to the touch. With proper care, the first blooms will appear 8 to 12 weeks from planting, Curless says. One large bulb produces at least two stems, sometimes three, each bearing four or more velvety flowers.

For a broad selection of amaryllis and other fall-planted bulbs at wholesale pricing, see Colorblends.com or call (888) 847-8637. The minimum order is $60

Longfield Gardens, a New Jersey-based bulb company, also sells a number of options, including amaryllis, tulips and hyacinths at Longfield-Gardens.com.