The Amaryllis family is home to some of the most stunning flowers in the gardening world. In fact, some of these beauties look so much like the classic Amaryllis (Hippeastrum) that they’re often mistaken for one another! If you’re looking to branch out, let’s get to know these exotic look-alikes and what makes each one unique.
Lily of the Nile – The Show-Stopping Double
Huge, vibrant, star-shaped flower heads are the signature look of the Lily of the Nile. The gorgeous *Agapanthus* genus has some very specific traits that make it a garden favorite. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Native to South Africa
- Grows between 20 and 40 inches tall
- Blooms from July through late September
- Features globe-like flower heads made up of dozens of tiny star-shaped blossoms
- Deciduous varieties are cold-hardy down to about 14°F (-10°C).
A quick heads-up for your garden chores: evergreen varieties of this genus cannot handle frost. Also, just like the Amaryllis, these are toxic! It’s always a smart move to wear your gardening gloves when handling them.
Crinum Lilies – The Summer Stand-Ins
Thanks to some creative cross-breeding, the beauty of the Amaryllis family isn’t just for the winter months. The Crinum lily (or Cape lily) graces our gardens with royal blooms all summer long. Here’s how they compare:
- Long-lived bulbous plants from South Africa
- Blooming season runs from June to September
- Lush green leaves that can reach up to 40 inches in length
- Fragrant flowers that grow up to 5.5 inches long
- Overall height ranges from 40 to 48 inches.
In milder climates, you can actually keep Crinum lilies in your flower beds year-round with just a few simple winterizing tricks.
Nerine – The Autumn Look-Alike
The delicate Nerine is a decorative fall favorite, known for its incredibly intense fragrance. Here are the characteristics that define this beauty:
- Smaller members of the Amaryllis family from South Africa
- Bloom time is from September through late November
- Fragrant flowers consist of 6 recurved (curled back) petals
- Compact growth, reaching about 12 to 16 inches tall.
In warmer zones, Nerine can stay outdoors through the winter. Otherwise, they are super easy to grow in containers and can be moved inside before the first frost hits.
The Madonna Lily – Similar Look, Different Family
There’s another flower that, at first glance, is a dead ringer for a white Amaryllis. I’m talking about the Madonna Lily (*Lilium candidum*). In early summer, it unfolds majestic, funnel-shaped white blossoms with a scent that will knock your socks off. However, the Madonna Lily actually comes from a completely different plant family, so technically, it’s more of a “cousin” than a true twin!
