Dear all; Time to report on latest developments on my attempt to grow this 'hardy' Hippeastrum. I planted a half dozen small bulbs near the south side of my unheated garage foundation in spring of 2003. They came up slowly each year and bit stronger. This spring they are the huskiest yet. Now there is the first bloom stalk. A single stalk on one bulb with two very typical looking flowers. Other reports seem to suggest this blooms in mid spring, May or so making this early July bloom very late. It has had two blossoms open for a week in light shade in 90 degree + heat. So this certainly suggests it is worth trying in more open situations in Zone 6 although it is mostly rated as a Zone 7 bulb. I am in Zone 5b. Actually it seems quite out of place (but a striking beauty) in this prairie garden this time of year. Best Jim W. -- Dr. James W. Waddick 8871 NW Brostrom Rd. Kansas City Missouri 64152-2711 USA Ph. 816-746-1949 Zone 5 Record low -23F Summer 100F +