Cybister amaryllis is a truly unique and captivating plant that offers an exotic twist on the traditional amaryllis flower
Cybister amaryllis is a unique and exotic variety of Hippeastrum, celebrated for its narrow, spidery petals and strikingly vibrant colors. While traditional amaryllis varieties, such as large single or double-flowered amaryllis, are known for their broad, trumpet-shaped petals, cybister amaryllis offers a completely different aesthetic with its delicate, almost whimsical appearance.
Amaryllis are perennial bulbs in the Amaryllidaceae family, which includes well-known plants like snowdrops and daffodils. What most people refer to as “amaryllis” is actually the genus Hippeastrum, while the true amaryllis is Amaryllis belladonna, a distinct species.
Cybister amaryllis varieties have been cultivated from Hippeastrum cybister, a species native to South America. While it shares many characteristics with other Hippeastrum species, such as its bulbous growth and ability to produce stunning flowers, cybister amaryllis stands out for its distinctive blooms. The flowers are often described as spidery or star-like, with thin, elongated petals that curl and twist elegantly outward from the center of the bloom.
The narrow, delicate petals create an airy, lightweight look that contrasts sharply with the fuller, more dramatic flowers of traditional amaryllis varieties. These flowers typically come in striking color combinations, such as reds, greens, whites, and pinks, adding to their exotic allure.
Cybister flowers typically range from 4 to 6 inches (10-15 cm) in diameter, making them smaller than some of the larger amaryllis varieties. However, what they lack in size, they make up for in elegance and detail. The petals are often bicolored or have contrasting edges, adding depth and dimension to the flowers.
Each cybister amaryllis bulb usually produces two stems, with each stem bearing 4-6 flowers. However, large bulbs can produce up to 3-4 stems and 5-8 blooms per stem. The bulb size and the cultivar are factors determining the number of flower stems that will develop. The bigger the bulb, the more chance it will produce more flower stems with several flowers to a stem.
The slender stems of the plant can reach heights of 18-24 inches (45-60 cm), supporting the delicate flowers with ease. Despite their dainty appearance, cybister amaryllis flowers are long-lasting and resilient, making them a great addition to both indoor and outdoor displays.
The blooming period typically lasts between 6 to 8 weeks. After planting, the flowers generally start to appear within 8 to 10 weeks, depending on growing conditions such as temperature and light. Once the flowers open, they bloom gradually, extending the overall flowering period. Each flower lasts up to two weeks, providing a continuous and exotic display for several weeks.
Cybister amaryllis, like other amaryllis varieties, is hardy in USDA zones 8-11. In these warmer climates, the bulbs can be planted outdoors, where they will bloom in late spring or early summer. They thrive in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-draining soil to avoid bulb rot.
In cooler regions, cybister amaryllis is usually grown indoors, especially during the winter months. However, the plant can be moved outdoors during the summer months once the threat of frost has passed. When planted outdoors in containers or garden beds, this amaryllis adds a unique tropical flair with its spidery and colorful blooms.
Gardeners in colder zones can also plant their amaryllis bulbs outdoors during the warm season and dig them up for indoor storage during the winter.
| Hardiness |
8 - 11 |
|---|---|
| Heat Zones |
1 - 12 |
| Climate Zones | 8, 9, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, H1, H2 |
| Plant Type | Bulbs |
| Plant Family | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus | Hippeastrum |
| Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
| Season of Interest | Spring (Early, Mid, Late), Summer (Early), Winter |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Water Needs | Average |
| Soil Type | Loam, Sand, Chalk, Clay |
| Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Cut Flowers, Showy |
| Tolerance | Deer, Drought, Rabbit |
| Landscaping Ideas | Beds And Borders, Patio And Containers |
Cybister amaryllis is highly versatile and can be used in a variety of ways, from indoor displays to garden plantings. Here are some common uses for this stunning variety:
Cybister amaryllis is often grown indoors, where its exotic flowers can be enjoyed year-round. The plant’s unique flower shape and vibrant colors make it a favorite for use as a centerpiece or in potted arrangements. The tall, slender stems also make it a great choice for adding height and drama to indoor spaces.
The delicate, spidery petals of cybister amaryllis make it an excellent choice for floral arrangements. Whether used as the focal point of a bouquet or as an accent flower, cybister amaryllis adds a touch of elegance and exotic flair to any arrangement. Its long-lasting blooms ensure that floral arrangements featuring cybister amaryllis will remain vibrant for weeks.
In warmer climates (USDA zones 8-11), this amaryllis can be planted outdoors, where it will bloom in the spring or summer. The plant’s striking flower shape and bold colors make it a standout addition to garden beds, borders, or container plantings. Its unique appearance adds a tropical feel to outdoor spaces, creating a sense of adventure and creativity in the garden.
Cybister amaryllis makes a wonderful gift for plant lovers and those who appreciate unique and exotic flowers. Its symbolic meanings of creativity, strength, and beauty make it a thoughtful and meaningful gift for special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, or holidays.
Like other types of amaryllis, cybister amaryllis carries rich symbolic meanings that make it more than just a beautiful plant. The unique shape and exotic appearance of cybister amaryllis add layers of depth to its symbolism, reflecting themes of beauty, strength, and creativity.
The unusual and artistic structure of cybister amaryllis symbolizes creativity and individuality. Its spidery, star-like petals stand out from more traditional flower shapes, making it a perfect symbol for those who value uniqueness and self-expression. Cybister amaryllis represents the beauty of being different and embracing one’s creative spirit.
Like all amaryllis varieties, cybister amaryllis represents strength and resilience. The plant’s ability to bloom during the winter months, when many other plants are dormant, symbolizes perseverance and determination. Despite its delicate appearance, cybister amaryllis is a hardy and long-lasting flower, further reinforcing this symbolic meaning.
Cybister amaryllis is often associated with beauty and elegance due to its graceful, lightweight petals and striking color combinations. The flower’s intricate design and delicate structure make it a symbol of refined beauty, often used to represent gracefulness and sophistication.
Amaryllis flowers are commonly used to celebrate special occasions, and cybister varieties are no exception. Their vibrant colors and unique shapes make them a perfect choice for celebratory events, symbolizing joy, success, and accomplishment.
Amaryllis is toxic to pets, including cats and dogs, due to compounds like lycorine. Ingestion can cause vomiting, drooling, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Severe cases may result in tremors, seizures, low blood pressure, or cardiac arrhythmias. The bulb is particularly dangerous, containing higher concentrations of toxins.
| Hardiness |
8 - 11 |
|---|---|
| Heat Zones |
1 - 12 |
| Climate Zones | 8, 9, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, H1, H2 |
| Plant Type | Bulbs |
| Plant Family | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus | Hippeastrum |
| Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
| Season of Interest | Spring (Early, Mid, Late), Summer (Early), Winter |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Water Needs | Average |
| Soil Type | Loam, Sand, Chalk, Clay |
| Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Cut Flowers, Showy |
| Tolerance | Deer, Drought, Rabbit |
| Landscaping Ideas | Beds And Borders, Patio And Containers |
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Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.
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