Amaryllis vs Geranium (Pelargonium)
Deciding between Amaryllis and Geranium (Pelargonium)? Both are solid choices with different care needs. Learn which fits your lifestyle.
Amaryllis vs Geranium (Pelargonium): Quick Comparison
Amaryllis (Hippeastrum spp.): Bright indirect to full sun light, Every 7ā10 days (growing season) watering. Geranium (Pelargonium) (Pelargonium x hortorum): Bright indirect to full sun light, Every 5ā7 days watering. Different plants for different homes.
Amaryllis: Profile
Easy difficulty. Bright indirect to full sun light. Every 7ā10 days (growing season) watering. Grows fast in bloom (flower stalk visible growth day by day). The plant sold as 'Amaryllis' is actually Hippeastrum. True Amaryllis belladonna is a different plant. Requires 8ā10 weeks of dry cool dormancy to rebloom the following year. Very easy first bloom from a kit.
Geranium (Pelargonium): Profile
Easy difficulty. Bright indirect to full sun light. Every 5ā7 days watering. Grows moderateāfast. What most people call 'geranium' is botanically Pelargonium ā true hardy geraniums are a different plant. One of the most popular flowering houseplants and patio plants. Very easy to propagate from cuttings. Toxic to pets.
Making Your Choice
Amaryllis works if you have Bright indirect to full sun light and can water Every 7ā10 days (growing season). Geranium (Pelargonium) suits Bright indirect to full sun light and Every 5ā7 days watering schedule. Match plant to your conditions.
Bottom Line
Both are worthwhile. Success comes from matching the plant to your home.
The Bottom Line
Pick Amaryllis or Geranium (Pelargonium) based on your light and watering commitment. Either choice works.
Frequently Asked Questions
Similar plants?ā¾
Different enough. Amaryllis needs Bright indirect to full sun. Geranium (Pelargonium) needs Bright indirect to full sun. Pick based on your light.
Which is easier?ā¾
Amaryllis: Easy. Geranium (Pelargonium): Easy.
Can I keep both?ā¾
Yes, if conditions match. Most homes have room for both.
Growth rate?ā¾
Amaryllis grows fast in bloom (flower stalk visible growth day by day). Geranium (Pelargonium) grows moderateāfast.
