Hippeastrum 'Chico' is an extraordinary Spider Amaryllis with exotic, almost orchid-like flowers quite unlike the familiar large, trumpet-shaped Amaryllis. Long, narrow petals sweep backwards like the wings of a bird, combining deep burgundy-red, ivory white and soft green to create a spectacular architectural bloom.
Commonly known as Amaryllis, Hippeastrum are superb indoor bulbs and 'Chico' makes an especially unusual choice. Its elegant flowers are carried on tall, sturdy stems and make a dramatic feature during the winter and early spring months.
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Botanical name: Hippeastrum 'Chico'
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Common name: Amaryllis / Spider Amaryllis
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Plant type: Tender bulbous perennial
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Flower colour: Burgundy-red, ivory white and soft green
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Flowering period: Typically winter to early spring when grown indoors
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Height: Approximately 45-60cm
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Spread: Approximately 20-30cm
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Position: Bright indoor position with indirect light
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Hardiness: Tender – protect from frost
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Ideal for: Indoor pots, conservatories and unusual winter displays
About Hippeastrum 'Chico'
'Chico' belongs to the distinctive group of Hippeastrum often referred to as Spider Amaryllis. Rather than producing broad overlapping petals, its flowers have long, slender segments which curve and twist backwards. This gives each bloom a light, almost airborne appearance.
The colouring makes the flowers even more striking. Rich burgundy-red runs through the narrow petals, contrasting beautifully with paler ivory and green tones towards the centre. Long projecting stamens add to the exotic appearance.
Growing Hippeastrum 'Chico' Indoors
Plant the bulb in a pot only slightly wider than the bulb itself, using a good-quality, free-draining compost. Position the bulb so that the upper third remains above the surface of the compost rather than burying it completely.
After planting, water sparingly until active growth begins. Once the flower stem and leaves are developing strongly, increase watering while allowing excess water to drain freely. Avoid leaving the pot standing in water, as consistently wet compost can cause the bulb to rot.
Place the pot somewhere warm and bright. Turning it occasionally as the flower stem develops can help keep the growth upright rather than leaning strongly towards the light.
Feeding and Aftercare
Once flowering has finished, remove the spent flower stem but leave the foliage intact. The leaves are essential because they allow the bulb to replenish its energy reserves for the following year's flowers.
Feed approximately every ten days with a suitable liquid fertiliser during active growth after flowering. Continue watering and feeding while the foliage remains healthy and green.
Encouraging Hippeastrum to Flower Again
Towards autumn, gradually reduce watering as the plant approaches dormancy. The foliage can be removed once it naturally yellows and dies back. Keep the dormant bulb relatively dry and allow it a resting period before bringing it back into active growth.
When fresh growth begins, resume watering gradually and move the pot back into a warm, bright position. With suitable feeding and a proper dormant period, established bulbs can provide impressive displays for many years.
Height and Spread
Hippeastrum 'Chico' typically reaches approximately 45-60cm tall when flowering, with a spread of around 20-30cm. Growth can vary depending on bulb size and growing conditions.
Why Grow Hippeastrum 'Chico'?
- Extraordinary spider-like flowers
- Long, recurved petals create a distinctive bird-like shape
- Beautiful combination of burgundy, ivory and soft green
- Much more unusual than traditional Amaryllis varieties
- Excellent statement plant for indoor pots
- Provides colour during the winter and early spring
- Bulbs can be grown and encouraged to flower again in future years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hippeastrum 'Chico' an Amaryllis?
Yes. Hippeastrum are commonly sold and grown under the name Amaryllis, although botanically they belong to the genus Hippeastrum.
What colour is Hippeastrum 'Chico'?
The unusual flowers combine deep burgundy-red with ivory white and soft green tones.
How tall does Hippeastrum 'Chico' grow?
Flowering plants typically reach approximately 45-60cm tall.
What is its spread?
Expect a mature spread of approximately 20-30cm when grown in a pot.
Should I completely bury an Amaryllis bulb?
No. Plant the bulb with approximately the upper third remaining above the surface of the compost.
Should I cut the leaves off after flowering?
No. Leave the foliage growing after flowering and feed the plant regularly. The leaves replenish the bulb and help produce flowers the following season. Remove them only as they naturally die back before dormancy.
Can Hippeastrum 'Chico' be grown outside in the UK?
It is a tender plant and is best treated as an indoor or conservatory bulb in the UK. It should not be exposed to frost.
For anyone looking for an Amaryllis with something genuinely different, Hippeastrum 'Chico' is an exceptional choice. Its slender, swept-back petals and unusual burgundy, ivory and green colouring give it an exotic character that makes a spectacular indoor centrepiece.
