Dancing Queen
‘Dancing Queen’ is a Double Galaxy Group amaryllis with frilly, red‑and‑white striped double blooms. Its layered petals create extra show indoors during winter. Across North America it performs best as a potted houseplant for holiday color. Tall, sturdy scapes carry large double flowers above strap leaves. Blooming generally begins 6-8 weeks after planting in warm, bright rooms. Grow outside only in frost‑free zones or movable containers.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: Double Galaxy Group
- Height × spread: 20–24 in × 8–12 in (50–60 cm × 20–30 cm)
- Bloom window: About 6–8 weeks after planting; typically Dec–Mar indoors
- Color & flower form: Double, red‑and‑white striped flowers
- 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
- 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
- Fully double form compared with single Galaxy Group types.
- Bicolor striping adds pattern versus solid colors.
- Heavier blooms often benefit from staking indoors.
Strengths
- Showy, layered blooms for holiday displays.
- Reliable forcing response in warm, bright rooms.
- Usable as a dramatic cut stem when properly supported.
Care in one minute
- SITE & LIGHT: Bright, indirect light; some winter sun is helpful.
- SOIL: Free‑draining mix; expose the bulb’s neck above the surface.
- WATER: Minimal until active growth; then moderate moisture with drainage.
- FEED: Start feeding after bloom while leaves rebuild the bulb.
- SUPPORT: Stake double blooms; keep cool after opening to extend life.
- OVERWINTER: Rest the bulb cool and dry before restarting for winter.
Watch‑outs
- Double flowers are heavier; stake early to prevent bending.
- Rotate pot and provide bright light to limit leaning.
- Keep mix free‑draining to prevent bulb rot; protect from frost.
Best uses (tags)
containers, indoor forcing, holiday display, cutting
Provenance note
Recorded by RHS as a named cultivar in the Double Galaxy Group; specific breeder/year not confirmed in primary sources.
References
- Royal Horticultural Society – Hippeastrum (Double Galaxy Group) ‘Dancing Queen’ profile
- NC State Extension – Hippeastrum page (cultivar notes)
- Missouri Botanical Garden – Hippeastrum (group) profile
- ASPCA – Hippeastrum (Ridderstjerne) toxicity
- NC State (HortScans) – Holly, Jolly Hippeastrum (vase life)
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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