Apple Blossom
‘Apple Blossom’ is a classic amaryllis cultivar in the Galaxy Group. It is valued for soft white flowers washed with shell‑pink and a green throat. Indoors across North America it blooms reliably in winter when planted in warm, bright conditions. Outdoors it is best confined to frost‑free zones or containers moved inside before freezes. Flowering typically begins about 6-8 weeks after planting. Use it for gentle color where bold reds feel too strong.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: Galaxy Group
- Height × spread: 16–24 in × 8–12 in (40–60 cm × 20–30 cm)
- Bloom window: About 6–8 weeks after planting; typically Dec–Mar indoors
- Color & flower form: White to blush‑pink single trumpets with green throat
- Fragrance: 0 none
- USDA hardiness: Hardy outdoors in USDA 8–10 in mild climates; otherwise grown as a seasonal houseplant in colder areas.
- Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown
- Awards/registration: RHS Award of Garden Merit (2012)
- Cut‑flower notes: Hollow stems; handle gently and stake if needed; typical vase life about 8–14 days under cool, clean conditions.
- Pet safety: avoid (toxic to pets; bulbs most toxic)
How it differs
- Softer pink‑and‑white palette compared with typical bold reds.
- Galaxy Group form with large single blooms rather than doubles.
- Often blooms early under warmth, making it a reliable winter choice.
Strengths
- Long‑popular cultivar with consistent performance indoors.
- Color blends easily with neutral winter decor.
- AGM recognition signals dependable quality.
Care in one minute
- SITE & LIGHT: Bright, indirect indoor light; rotate weekly for straight stems.
- SOIL: Free‑draining potting mix; leave the top third of the bulb above the surface.
- WATER: Sparingly until growth; then moderate moisture; drain saucers.
- FEED: Begin liquid feed after bloom while leaves are in growth to rebuild the bulb.
- SUPPORT: Stake if stems lean toward light.
- OVERWINTER: Provide a cool, dry rest 6–10 weeks before restarting for winter bloom.
Watch‑outs
- Needs bright light to prevent leaning.
- Bulb rot risk if watered heavily before active growth.
- Not hardy where frost occurs; grow as a houseplant in most regions.
Best uses (tags)
containers, indoor forcing, holiday display, cutting
Provenance note
Listed by RHS in the Galaxy Group and holding AGM; detailed breeder/year not verified from primary sources.
References
- RHS – The Garden index (2018): Hippeastrum groups incl. ‘Apple Blossom’
- NC State Extension – Hippeastrum page (cultivar color notes)
- Missouri Botanical Garden – Hippeastrum (group) profile
- RHS – AGM Ornamentals list (2015)
- ASPCA – Hippeastrum (Ridderstjerne) toxicity
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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