Alstroemeria, often recognized for its vibrant colors and speckled petals, is a resilient flower that has become a staple in gardens and bouquets worldwide. Known widely as the Peruvian Lily or the Lily of the Incas, this plant offers a long-lasting bloom prized by both home gardeners and professional florists. The genus Alstroemeria includes numerous species and hybrids that contribute significant color and texture. Its popularity stems from the flower’s ability to thrive in varied conditions and its consistent production of blossoms.
Defining Characteristics and Native Habitat
The genus Alstroemeria belongs to the family Alstroemeriaceae, distinct from the true lily family, Liliaceae. These flowers are native exclusively to South America, with two main centers of diversity found in central Chile and eastern Brazil. The species thrive in the mountainous and cooler regions of Peru, Chile, and Brazil, leading to the popular moniker “Lily of the Incas.”
A unique botanical feature is resupination, where the leaves twist 180 degrees as they grow, causing the underside of the leaf to face upward. The trumpet-shaped flowers feature six petal-like structures, or tepals, which often display intricate, darker streaks or speckles on the inner three tepals. These markings appear across a broad spectrum of colors, including white, pink, red, orange, yellow, and purple, frequently presenting as striking bicolors.
Cultivating Alstroemeria in Gardens
Alstroemeria grows from fleshy, tuberous rhizomes, which is the preferred method of propagation. These perennials perform best in a location that receives full morning sun but benefits from partial shade during the hottest part of the afternoon. The soil should be fertile and consistently well-drained, as the tuberous roots are susceptible to rot if left in standing water.
Planting the rhizomes in spring allows the plant to establish itself before the summer blooming season. For maintenance, it is recommended to gently pull the flowering stems from the base when harvesting or deadheading, rather than cutting them. This action stimulates new growth and subsequent blooms, encouraging the plant to flower continuously from late spring until the first frost.
Most modern hybrids are reliably hardy in USDA zones 8 through 10, though some cultivars tolerate zone 7b or even zone 6 with winter protection. In colder regions where the ground freezes, the plants are often treated as annuals or the rhizomes can be dug up in the fall and stored indoors. During the growing season, a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or one high in potash supports the plant’s prolific blooming.
Commercial Use and Cultural Meanings
Alstroemeria is a cornerstone of the global cut flower industry due to its exceptional performance once harvested. The flower is valued for its impressive longevity, commonly lasting up to two weeks or longer in a vase with proper care. Its durability, combined with the multiple blooms on a single stem, makes it economical and visually impactful for bouquets and arrangements.
The flower carries rich symbolism, most frequently representing devotion, friendship, and mutual support. The six petals are sometimes said to represent specific qualities, such as commitment, respect, patience, and humor. The abundance of flowers produced from a single root system also links the Alstroemeria to meanings of prosperity and good fortune. This combination of resilience and positive cultural meaning ensures the Peruvian Lily remains a favored choice.