Dennis Tsang

Dennis Tsang

Introduction: Hippeastrum bukasovii is a distinctive species easily recognized by its red flowers with white tipped petals.

Habitats: Hippeastrum bukasovii is endemic to areas at 1400 – 1800 m, at the bottom of steep canyons and valleys in Sandia Province in the Department of Puno, eastern Peru. These tropical valleys are subject to morning sunlight, hot and humid afternoon. In late afternoon, thick mist is trapped in these canyons. Wild bulbs growing on steep slopes are also subject to heavy rain during summer months.

Use by Local People: In Puno, wild Hippeastrum bukasovii flowers open during spring time in September and October. The flowers are collected and decorated on the hat of local women. Some of these women are too shy to stop by for a photo (they usually run away when you approach them) while others are ready to pose for a picture. In any case, it is an offence to come close to a local woman.

Culture: Hippeastrum bukasovii is easily maintained in cultivation and does not require much attention. Bulbs grow equally well in sand, potting mix and compost of high organic contents. This is a summer growing species which grows actively and multiplies in summer. In winter, bulbs are half dormant when growth remains stagnant. It is the time when watering should be reduced. Hippeastrum bukasovii enjoys a lot of light but not direct sunlight. It is a tropical species. In severe climates, bulbs should be grown in protected areas.

Further Reading:

Plant Life, 1975, p. 30-31
HERBERTIA, 1984
HERBERTIA, 1988 (Part 2), p.27

Dennis Tsang (2 January 2005)
Hong Kong