Benfica Hippeastrum Bulb | Deep Burgundy-Red Amaryllis

Hippeastrum ‘Benfica’ produces large, dramatic flowers in a rich burgundy to blood-red colour. The velvety petals develop an almost black sheen in certain light, creating one of the darkest and most distinctive red Hippeastrum displays.

Its strong upright stems and substantial blooms make it ideal for feature pots, garden beds and cut-flower arrangements.

Key Features

• Deep burgundy to blood-red flowers
• Velvety petals with an almost black sheen
• Large single-flowered form
• Blooms may reach approximately 19cm across
• Strong, upright flower stems
• Established bulbs may produce several flowers per stem
• Suitable for pots, gardens and cutting
• Supplied as one dry bulb

Product Details

• Botanical name: Hippeastrum × hybridum
• Cultivar: ‘Benfica’
• Group: Galaxy Group
• Common name: Amaryllis
• Flower colour: Dark burgundy-red to blood-red
• Flower form: Large, single flowers
• Approximate flower size: Up to 19cm across
• Approximate height: 40–50cm
• Approximate spread: 20–25cm
• Position: Full sun to part shade
• Flowering period: Spring to summer
• Planting period: July to October
• Spacing: Approximately 25–30cm
• Supplied as: One dry bulb
• Frost hardy: No

Planting and Care

Plant in rich, free-draining soil with the neck and upper third of the bulb above soil level. Select a sunny or lightly shaded position protected from strong winds.

Water around the base after planting and then moderately as growth develops. Avoid pouring water over the exposed bulb neck or allowing the soil to remain waterlogged.

Feed during the leafy growth period to replenish the bulb. After flowering, remove the spent flower stem but leave the foliage until it naturally yellows and dies back.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Benfica red or purple?
Its flowers are best described as deep burgundy or blood-red, with purple undertones and an almost black sheen in certain light.

Is it a double Hippeastrum?
No. Benfica is a large-flowering single variety in the Galaxy Group.

How large are the flowers?
Blooms may reach approximately 19cm across under suitable growing conditions.

How tall does it grow?
Flower stems generally reach approximately 40–50cm.

Can it be grown in a pot?
Yes. Use a sturdy container with excellent drainage and leave the upper third of the bulb exposed.

Can the flowers be used for cutting?
Yes. Its strong stems and dramatic colouring make it suitable for floral arrangements.

Will it flower again next year?
Yes. Keep the foliage growing after flowering so it can replenish the bulb for the following season.

Important Information

Image shown is an example picture only. Flower colour, size and form may vary slightly depending on lighting, growing conditions, seasonal conditions and natural variation. The image shows a mature flowering plant; this product is supplied as one dry bulb.

Hippeastrum bulbs may be harmful if eaten and can irritate skin and eyes. Keep away from children and pets.