From “Amaryllis” in Bulbs and Tuberous-Rooted Plants: Their History, Description, Methods of Propagation and Complete Directions for their Successful Culture in the Garden, Dwelling and Greenhouse (1893) by C. L. Allen:
“This interesting genus has had a hard struggle to establish its identity. At one period it had numerous species, and many sub-genera, all very beautiful. One by one these have been removed, becoming separate genera themselves, until there is scarcely enough left to hold the name. Some eight distinct kinds still hold, in trade, the old generic name….
“[The] Amaryllis is but little known in this country, while its synonyms are extensively grown and highly appreciated. Amaryllis is now simply a trade name for several genera, a popular name applied in the same manner as that of Calla Lily to Richardia, or Japonica to the Camellia. The genus formerly included Hippeastrum, Brunsvigia, Crinum, Nerine, Sprekelia, Sternbergia, Vallota and Zephyranthes…..
“The genus Amaryllis consists of but one species.”
Hello!
This is the second of two posts featuring Swamp Lilies (or Swamplilies or Swamp-lilies) or Amaryllis or Crinum or just pretty flowers, that I took at Oakland Cemetery’s gardens a few weeks ago. The first post is (including a bit about the plants’ names) is Amaryllis, Mostly Magenta (1 of 2).
Thanks for taking a peek!
