How to Care for Waxed Amaryllis Bulbs: FAQs & Flowering Tips

Waxed amaryllis bulbs produce spectacular indoor flowers without soil or watering. The bulb contains the moisture and stored energy it needs to grow, while the decorative wax coating helps prevent moisture loss.

That makes them unusually easy to care for – but there are still a few simple things you can do to encourage straight growth, healthy flowers and the longest possible display.

How to care for waxed amaryllis bulbs

Do waxed amaryllis bulbs need water?

No. Do not water a waxed amaryllis bulb. The bulb contains the moisture and stored energy it needs to grow and flower, so no compost, plant pot or watering is required.

Simply place the bulb somewhere bright and enjoy watching the flower stems develop.

Where should I put a waxed amaryllis bulb?

Choose a bright position with plenty of indirect light. Avoid harsh direct sunlight and very hot spots such as immediately above a radiator.

Rotate the bulb every few days as it grows. Amaryllis stems naturally lean towards the light, so regular turning helps keep them straighter and more balanced.

How long do waxed amaryllis bulbs take to flower?

Waxed amaryllis bulbs typically flower within around 3–6 weeks, although every bulb is different.

Room temperature makes a difference: warmer conditions generally encourage faster growth, while cooler indoor temperatures slow development and can help extend the flowering display.

Can I make a waxed amaryllis flower for Christmas?

You can time your purchase to give the bulb a good chance of flowering around Christmas, but flowering is a natural process and it isn't possible to guarantee an exact date.

If you're hoping for Christmas flowers, buying several weeks beforehand gives the stems plenty of time to develop. The waxed bulb itself also makes an attractive festive display while you wait for the flowers to open.

How waxed amaryllis bulbs work

How can a bulb grow without soil or water?

Amaryllis – botanically Hippeastrum – grows from a large bulb containing stored carbohydrates and moisture.

With a waxed bulb, those stored reserves provide the energy needed to produce the flower stems and blooms. The wax coating reduces moisture loss, which is why the bulb can flower without being planted or watered.

Why are amaryllis bulbs coated in wax?

• No watering required – the bulb can flower using its own stored reserves
• No soil or pot needed – simply place it where you'd like to display it
• Decorative finish – the coloured wax turns the bulb itself into part of the display
• Easy gifting – there's nothing for the recipient to plant or look after

Waxed amaryllis FAQs

How long do the flowers last?

Individual flowers usually remain attractive for around one to two weeks. Because several flowers – and often more than one flower stem – develop in succession, the overall flowering display can last considerably longer.

What should I do if the stem starts leaning?

Rotate the bulb regularly so each side receives light. If a tall flower stem becomes top-heavy, you can also give it some discreet support.

Should I remove faded flowers?

Yes. Once an individual flower has faded, you can remove it carefully to keep the plant looking its best. Once all the flowers on a stem have finished, the spent stem can be cut back.

Can a waxed amaryllis bulb flower again?

It is possible, but it isn't guaranteed. A waxed bulb uses a considerable amount of its stored energy to flower without soil, water or functioning roots.

If you'd like to try, carefully remove the wax after flowering and pot the bulb into free-draining compost. Give it good light, water and regular feeding while it produces leaves so it can gradually rebuild its energy reserves. It may take more than one growing season before it is strong enough to flower again.

Are waxed amaryllis bulbs safe for pets?

No. Amaryllis is harmful if eaten by cats or dogs, so keep bulbs and plants out of reach of pets and small children.

Are all waxed amaryllis bulbs the same?

No. Bulb size, quality and the number of flower stems can vary.

The bulbs we sell at grow urban. are original No Water Flowers® bulbs, specially selected for 2 or more flower stems and guaranteed to flower. Each also includes a discreet support underneath to help keep the bulb stable as the stems develop.

Shop our Wax Amaryllis Bulbs →

Why waxed amaryllis make such good Christmas gifts

• Almost no maintenance – no watering, soil or potting required
• Spectacular flowers – large blooms create an impressive winter display
• Easy to give – ready to display straight away
• Ideal for beginners – no plant-care knowledge required
• Great for grouping – two or three bulbs make a particularly striking festive display

When are waxed amaryllis bulbs available?

Waxed amaryllis bulbs are a seasonal product and are normally available from October to December.

They're one of our bestselling Christmas products and we receive regular deliveries throughout the festive season. If a colour is currently sold out, use Notify me when available on the product page and we'll email you when more arrive.