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I thought I was sitting down to write about dividing Hippeastrum reticulatum var. striatifolium bulbs, but upon further investigation I am finding that I’ve never written about this plant!

This summer blooming bulb features a white stripe along the leaves and beautiful pink flowers. Also called netted-veined amaryllis, it is a flowering perennial herbaceous bulbous plant, in the family Amaryllidaceae, native to South America. 

Hippeastrum reticulatum var. striatifolium

In my experience Hippeastrum reticulatum var. striatifolium does well in low light with minimal watering. The bright white stripe along the midrib is quite striking and adds interest throughout the year. I am growing it as a houseplant (zone 5!) but it will also do well in the landscape in warmer climates.

Hippeastrum reticulatum var. striatifolium Amaryllis with white leaf stripe and pink flowers

The trumpet shaped flowers of this amaryllis are a special treat during the months of September and October. It seems so unusual to see a bulb flowering during this time, but 10-12 bloom stalks all emerged at the same time this year. The pink flowers don’t last long but put on quite the show.

Hippeastrum reticulatum var. striatifolium Amaryllis with white leaf stripe and pink flowers

After three years in this 3-gallon pot this plant was ready to be divided. How did I know? The leaves coming out the bottom drainage holes were a pretty good indicator. I should mention that the large roots around the base were from a nearby Monstera plant that was mooching some extra water from its neighbors.

Hippeastrum reticulatum var. striatifolium Amaryllis with white leaf stripe and pink flowers
Hippeastrum reticulatum var. striatifolium Amaryllis with white leaf stripe and pink flowers

Now, where to find this plant? That I am not sure of. I was lucky enough to receive this plant from a friend before leaving Florida but I do think it is a difficult one to acquire. A quick search online found bulbs available on Ebay but I can’t speak to the quality of that source. In the meantime, perhaps this is the next plant on your “Must Find” plant list?

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