Overview
Haemanthus humilis subsp. hirsutus is a tufted conservatory greenhouse in the genus Haemanthus, part of the Amaryllidaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Haemanthus humilis subsp. hirsutus grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates loam and sand soils and alkaline and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H2. Suggested uses include patio and container plants.
About
Haemanthus humilis subsp. hirsutus is a tufted, evergreen bulbous plant within the Amaryllidaceae family. As a cultivar of Haemanthus, it thrives in well-drained loam or sandy soils with an alkaline to neutral pH, favouring full sun or partial shade in sheltered, south-facing positions. Suitable for conservatories, greenhouses, or as a houseplant, it is ideal for patio and container cultivation. This cultivar is hardy to UK zone H2 and is best planted at the appropriate depth in well-drained soil. It flowers in winter, producing small flowers in dense umbels, often accompanied by vibrant bracts, followed by fleshy white or red fruits.
About the genus
Haemanthus is a Southern African genus of flowering plants in the family Amaryllidaceae, subfamily Amaryllidoideae. Members of the genus are known as blood lily and paintbrush lily. There are some 22 known species, native to South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Lesotho and Eswatini.
Wikipedia contributors, "Haemanthus", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Haemanthus
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Haemanthus
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H2
Plant details
Haemanthus humilis subsp. hirsutus size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Conservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants, Bulbs
- Habit
- Tufted
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Patio and container plants
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Haemanthus humilis subsp. hirsutus
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed or remove offsets in early spring
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Haemanthus humilis subsp. hirsutus?
Haemanthus humilis subsp. hirsutus prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Haemanthus humilis subsp. hirsutus need?
Haemanthus humilis subsp. hirsutus grows best in loam and sand soil. It prefers alkaline and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Haemanthus humilis subsp. hirsutus hardy in the UK?
Haemanthus humilis subsp. hirsutus has an RHS hardiness rating of H2, meaning it is tender, tolerating 1–5°C, and needs frost-free protection over winter.
How do I propagate Haemanthus humilis subsp. hirsutus?
Propagate by seed or remove offsets in early spring.