Dear All; Sorry, been on another peony project and slow to respond. It is no contest: 2 months of a succession of 20 species and selections of Lycoris versus no flowers (ever) on Amaryllis*. Duh. Right now Lycoris incarnata is producing a nice show in a couple patches. This has proven to be both remarkably hardy and vigorous. The buds are an intense pink, but flowers open white with each petal showing a rich pink mid-line. Undeniable 'peppermint' quality. This is a medium size lycoris in all aspects and blooms as the last of the L. chinensis/longituba and their hybrids are fading. L. caldwellii should be next in line. I can't agree more about the pitiful shape of Lycoris sold in fall. The bulbs should be dug, divided and replanted in July or August. By Oct and November they are extremely stressed and bulbs bought then are half dead. I've never had them wait 5 years, but 2 or 3 years is not unusual before they show themselves again and add a year from bloom. Best Jim W. * I have 4 or 5 varieties, but have been giving these away to other more gullible local gardeners who think they can get this to bloom here. Some in 10 years plus have produce nary a petal. -- Dr. James W. Waddick 8871 NW Brostrom Rd. Kansas City Missouri 64152-2711 USA Ph. 816-746-1949 E-fax 419-781-8594 Zone 5 Record low -23F Summer 100F +