Amaryllis vs. Lilies — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Fiza Rafique — Updated on April 3, 2024
Amaryllis are bulbous plants with large, trumpet-shaped flowers, often grown indoors, while lilies are a diverse genus with various forms and habitats, typically grown outdoors in gardens.
Difference Between Amaryllis and Lilies
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Amaryllis, often associated with the holiday season, are prized for their impressive blooms that can be forced indoors during the winter. Originating from the Amaryllidaceae family, these plants are known for their large, bell-shaped flowers, which come in colors like red, pink, and white. They typically bloom from a bulb after a period of dormancy and are popular as potted plants. On the other hand, lilies, belonging to the Lilium genus within the Liliaceae family, offer a wide range of species with flowers that can vary greatly in color, shape, and size. Lilies are perennial plants that grow from bulbs and are commonly found in outdoor gardens, where they bloom naturally in the spring or summer.
Amaryllis bulbs are typically planted indoors and require a period of dormancy before they can bloom. Gardeners often force amaryllis bulbs to flower by simulating winter conditions, leading to their popularity during the holiday season. Whereas lilies are planted outdoors and follow the natural seasons for their growth and flowering cycle. They do not generally require the same level of intervention to bloom as amaryllis.
Cultivation practices for amaryllis and lilies also differ. Amaryllis can thrive indoors with sufficient light and water, making them suitable for those with limited outdoor space. Conversely, lilies are best suited to outdoor gardens where they can receive direct sunlight and have more room to grow, often attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies to the garden.
Despite their differences, both amaryllis and lilies are highly regarded for their beauty and are used in floral arrangements and for ornamental purposes. Amaryllis, with their striking, solitary blooms, make bold statements in indoor settings, while lilies, with their diversity and fragrance, add elegance and fragrance to outdoor gardens.
While both are bulbous plants that produce showy flowers, amaryllis and lilies belong to different families and have distinct growth habits and cultural requirements. Amaryllis' ease of indoor cultivation contrasts with the lilies' preference for an outdoor environment, reflecting the plants' adaptation to different habitats and conditions.
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Comparison Chart
Family
Amaryllidaceae
Liliaceae
Flower Shape
Large, trumpet-shaped, often solitary blooms.
Various shapes, including trumpet, bowl, and star-shaped.
Cultivation
Grown indoors, can be forced to bloom.
Grown outdoors, blooms according to season.
Blooming Season
Typically in winter (indoors).
Spring or summer (outdoors).
Care
Requires a period of dormancy.
Does not generally require dormancy for blooming.
Use
Popular as potted plants for indoor decoration.
Commonly used in gardens and for cut flowers.
Compare with Definitions
Amaryllis
A bulbous plant known for its large, vibrant flowers, often grown indoors.
The bright red amaryllis became the centerpiece of our holiday decorations.
Lilies
A diverse group of flowering plants, often grown in gardens for their fragrant blooms.
The garden was filled with the sweet fragrance of blooming lilies.
Amaryllis
Commonly forced to flower indoors during the winter.
We forced an amaryllis bulb to bloom in time for Christmas.
Lilies
Perennials that grow from bulbs, offering a variety of colors and shapes.
This year, our lilies blossomed in a stunning array of colors.
Amaryllis
Produces striking blooms from bulbs after a dormancy period.
After resting the amaryllis bulb, it bloomed beautifully on the windowsill.
Lilies
Known for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.
The lilies in our backyard are always buzzing with bees.
Amaryllis
Symbolizes pride and enchanting beauty in the language of flowers.
The amaryllis bouquet was chosen for its symbolism of breathtaking beauty.
Lilies
Represents purity and renewal, making them popular in floral arrangements.
The wedding bouquet was adorned with white lilies, symbolizing a fresh start.
Amaryllis
Requires minimal care, thriving on basic watering and light.
The amaryllis on my desk blooms even with my occasional neglect.
Lilies
Includes species such as Tiger, Easter, and Stargazer lilies.
The Stargazer lilies are the highlight of my summer garden.
Amaryllis
Amaryllis () is the only genus in the subtribe Amaryllidinae (tribe Amaryllideae). It is a small genus of flowering bulbs, with two species.
Lilies
Any of various plants of the genus Lilium, having variously colored, often trumpet-shaped flowers.
Amaryllis
Any of several chiefly tropical American bulbous plants of the genus Hippeastrum, grown as ornamentals for their large, showy, funnel-shaped, variously colored flowers.
Lilies
Any of various similar or related plants, such as the daylily or the water lily.
Amaryllis
See belladonna lily.
Lilies
The flower of any of these plants.
Amaryllis
Any of several similar or related plants.
Lilies
Plural of lily
Amaryllis
The belladonna lily, Amaryllis belladonna, native to South Africa.
Amaryllis
A similar lily in genus Hippeastrum, such as Hippeastrum puniceum, and cultivars.
Amaryllis
A pastoral sweetheart.
To sport with Amaryllis in the shade.
Amaryllis
A family of plants much esteemed for their beauty, including the narcissus, jonquil, daffodil, agave, and others.
Amaryllis
Bulbous plant having showy white to reddish flowers
Common Curiosities
Can amaryllis be grown outside?
While amaryllis can be grown outside in warm climates, they are more commonly grown indoors in pots due to their need for controlled conditions to induce blooming.
Are lilies easy to care for?
Lilies are relatively low-maintenance when grown in suitable outdoor conditions, requiring well-draining soil, adequate sunlight, and occasional watering.
How long does it take for amaryllis to bloom after planting?
Amaryllis typically blooms 6-8 weeks after planting, depending on the variety and growing conditions.
Do amaryllis and lilies come in different colors?
Yes, both plants come in a variety of colors, including shades of red, pink, white, and orange, among others.
What is the main difference between amaryllis and lilies?
The main difference lies in their family classification, flowering habits, and cultivation requirements, with amaryllis being indoor plants that can be forced to bloom and lilies thriving outdoors in natural conditions.
What are the best conditions for growing lilies outdoors?
Lilies thrive in well-draining soil with plenty of sunlight and moderate watering, avoiding waterlogged conditions.
Can the bulbs of amaryllis and lilies be reused?
Yes, both amaryllis and lily bulbs can be reused; amaryllis bulbs can be forced to rebloom indoors, while lily bulbs will naturally rebloom each year if cared for properly.
Do all lilies have a fragrance?
Not all lily species are fragrant; the presence and strength of fragrance vary among the different types of lilies.
What should I do if my lily or amaryllis isn't blooming?
Ensure they are receiving the right amount of light, water, and nutrients. For amaryllis, a period of dormancy might be needed; for lilies, check for proper soil conditions and sunlight.
Are amaryllis and lilies suitable for beginners?
Both can be suitable for beginners, with amaryllis being particularly easy to grow indoors and lilies being a good choice for outdoor gardening with minimal care.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
