Minerva
‘Minerva’ is a Galaxy Group amaryllis noted for red petals with a crisp white star. It is a dependable indoor winter bloomer across North America. Use it where you want strong color with high contrast. Stems are medium‑tall and carry large single blooms. Plants usually flower 6-8 weeks after potting in warm, bright rooms. Grow outdoors only in frost‑free zones or containers that can be moved under cover.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: Galaxy Group
- Height × spread: 16–20 in × 8–12 in (40–50 cm × 20–30 cm)
- Bloom window: About 6–8 weeks after planting; typically Dec–Mar indoors
- Color & flower form: Red with white star, 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
- 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
- Distinct white star pattern compared with solid reds and pinks.
- Single Galaxy Group form rather than double or spider types.
- Moderate height suits small indoor spaces.
Strengths
- Contrasting color pattern reads well from across the room.
- Reliable forcing response under household conditions.
- Performs as a cut flower when conditioned.
Care in one minute
- SITE & LIGHT: Bright, indirect light indoors; rotate for straight scapes.
- SOIL: Free‑draining mix; leave the bulb’s neck exposed.
- WATER: Minimal until shoot appears; then steady moisture without waterlogging.
- FEED: Start feeding after bloom while leaves are photosynthesizing.
- SUPPORT: Stake if the scape tilts; keep in cooler room once open to extend bloom.
- OVERWINTER: Cool, dry rest 6–10 weeks; restart for next winter’s display.
Watch‑outs
- Stems may lean toward windows; rotate pot or stake.
- Avoid overwatering before active growth to limit rot.
- Keep away from pets due to toxicity.
Best uses (tags)
containers, indoor forcing, cutting, holiday display
Provenance note
Accepted by RHS in the Galaxy Group; breeder and introduction year not confirmed in primary records.
References
- Royal Horticultural Society – Hippeastrum (Galaxy Group) ‘Minerva’ profile
- Missouri Botanical Garden – Hippeastrum (group) profile
- Clemson HGIC – Amaryllis care and staking
- ASPCA – Hippeastrum (Ridderstjerne) toxicity
- NC State (HortScans) – Holly, Jolly Hippeastrum (vase life)
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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