Many people use the name Ritterstern as a synonym for amaryllis. Strictly speaking, however, there is a difference between the two. Here you can find out what makes the plants different and what type of amaryllis the Ritterstern is.
What is the difference between Ritterstern and Amaryllis?
The difference between knight's star and amaryllis is that the knight's star (Hippeastrum) comes from South America and blooms in December, while the real amaryllis (Amaryllis belladonna) comes from South Africa and blooms from August to September. The knight's star also has a hollow stem.
What is the difference between Ritterstern and Amaryllis?
These are twodifferent plants from the common Amaryllis family. The knight's star is known by the botanical name Hippeastrum and comes from South America. Hybrids of this variety are sold as beautiful and easy-care houseplants at Christmas due to their typical flowering period and are also popularly known as amaryllis. The real amaryllis, on the other hand, comes from South Africa, i.e. from a completely different continent. This amaryllis plant is known by the scientific name Amaryllis belladonna.
What difference is there in the blooming period of the Ritterstern?
The knight's star bloomsin December, while the real amaryllis blooms fromAugust to September. The belladonna lily does not promise the winter flowering in the run-up to Christmas, which most people directly associate with the amaryllis. In the southern hemisphere, however, the real amaryllis blooms from March onwards due to the different climatic conditions. That's why this plant is also called the March lily.
What characteristics distinguish the knight's star from the amaryllis?
The knight's star has ahollow stem Unlike the real amaryllis, the flower stem of this plant is not as stable as it seems at first glance. If the flowering on the houseplant is too lush, it is best to lean the stem of the plant against a window or wall in the respective location. This will prevent the stem from bending or the plant from tipping over.
Tip
Both plants are poisonous
In contrast to some differences, Ritterstern and amaryllis also have similarities. In addition to the similar appearance, this also affects the toxins contained in the plant. If you come into contact with the plant or its sap while caring for or cutting the amaryllis, you should wear protective gloves (€9.00 on Amazon) to be on the safe side.
