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Hi Wendy,

Thank you for sharing your story! These plants sound like a very special part of your family history.

It is hard to say based on your description if these bulbs are what we typically refer to as amaryllis (native to South America), which are hybrids in the genus Hippeastrum, or a true amaryllis, also known as belladonna lilies, from South Africa, or something else in the amaryllis family. The hybrids that you can buy today were first developed in the 19th century.

You should certainly follow the care tips that your uncle passed along, but it might be best to take some pictures of your plants that are in bloom now and contact your local cooperative extension. There will be someone there that you can discuss them with who will have knowledge of what the plant truly is and how to best care for it during the different seasons.

Here is a list of the cooperative extensions in each state to help find the one to best contact. https://www.almanac.com/cooperative-extension-services

Hope this helps and good luck with caring for these special plants!

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