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Benfica
Galaxy Group
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: 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: Very deep red, velvety single trumpets
- 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
- Notably darker red than many standard varieties.
- Tall scapes add height for arrangements and mantels.
- Tends to lean toward the light if not rotated.
Strengths
- Rich, saturated color for winter displays.
- AGM recognition indicates dependable garden merit (under glass).
- Performs well as a cut stem when conditioned.
Care in one minute
SITE & LIGHT: Brightest available indoor light; some direct sun is helpful in winter.
SOIL: Free‑draining potting mix; plant bulb with neck exposed.
WATER: Sparingly until growth, then consistent moisture with good drainage.
FEED: Begin fertilizing after bloom through the leaf phase.
SUPPORT: Stake tall scapes; rotate the pot to keep stems vertical.
OVERWINTER: Provide a rest period before restarting for winter bloom.
Watch‑outs
- Rotate pot weekly or provide strong light to prevent lodging.
- Stake in low‑light rooms.
- Protect from frost; avoid overwatering.
Best uses (tags)
Provenance note
Listed by RHS with AGM status in the Galaxy Group; detailed breeder/year not confirmed in primary sources.
References
- Chicago Botanic Garden – Hippeastrum ‘Benfica’ profile
- RHS – AGM Ornamentals list (2015)
- Missouri Botanical Garden – Hippeastrum (group) profile
- ASPCA – Hippeastrum (Ridderstjerne) toxicity
- NC State (HortScans) – Holly, Jolly Hippeastrum (vase life)
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