Peruvian Lily
Alstroemeria spp.
Also known as
Inca Lily
Alstroemeria aurea 'Saturne' by jjharrison89@facebook.com (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Full Sun
Moderate care
Moderate watering
Frost Hardy
H4
RHS hardiness
-10°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
---|---|---|
1m | Max | 50cm |
50cm | Min | 30cm |
Flowering
-
spring
-
summer
-
autumn
-
winter
This plant has no fragrance
More images of Peruvian Lily
Peruvian Lily Overview
Alstroemeria is a genus of herbaceous perennials that form spreading clumps of erect stems bearing narrow, lance-shaped leaves. In summer, they produce prolific umbels of beautiful funnel-shaped flowers - often spotted or streaked - that come in numerous colours. Also known as Inca lilies, they spread naturally and are generally grown in mixed/herbaceous borders. Some species are very popular as cut flowers. These fleshy-rooted plants from the mountain screes and grasslands of South America are also available as dwarf varieties which are best grown under glass as alpines. Alstroemeria foliage may exacerbate skin allergies. Inca lilies need well-draining soil and should not be left to sit in waterlogged soil as the fleshy tubers are prone to rotting. Inca lilies enjoy a position in full morning sun and some shade in the afternoon. During the growing season, feed your Alstroemerias with a high potash fertilizer once every week to encourage flowering. Stems that are done flowering can be removed by twisting it at the base of the plant, and flowers can be deadheaded to prevent seed formation. Also be sure to mulch well around the roots, especially in colder regions. Inca lilies are easy to propagate via division.
Common problems with Peruvian Lily
Also susceptible to some viruses.
How to propagate Peruvian Lily
Seed
Soak seeds for 12 hours and sow in seed trays with potting soil. Germination will be slow. Transplant seedlings after 4-6 weeks. Take care with brittle roots when transplanting seedlings.
Division
Inca lilies can be easily propagated via division, usually done in spring or autumn. Start by cutting down your plant, and after about two weeks lift the tubers, along with its roots, and divide with a sharp, sterilized knife. Replant the tubers. Mulch and water well.
Special features of Peruvian Lily
Attracts useful insects
Attracts butterflies and bees.
Pot plant
Attractive flowers
Other uses of Peruvian Lily
Flowers last well when used for floral arrangements. Borders. Suitable for coastal conditions.
Cut flowers
Summer Flowering Bulbs
Plant out these flowering bulbs in spring to enjoy their summer performance.
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