Clumping perennial that produces many flowers during the warmer months. Highly regarded as a cut flower, particularly tall varieties due to long stems and long lasting flowers.

Family: Alstroemeriaceae

Genus: Alstroemeria

Alternate Names: Peruvian Lilies, Lily of the Incas, Princess Lilies

Origin: South America

Flowering Season: Spring- summer

Plant Size: Tall to 1m H, Dwarf to 30 cm

Planting Density: 30 cm

Multiplication speed: Some large varieties such as Alstroemeria aurea (Yellow Alstroemeria) has the potential to be a weed problem in some areas and should be avoided. Hybrid varieties are less problematic.

Preferred Aspect: Full sun to light shade in warmer climates.

Plant Uses: Large can be used at the back of garden beds. Dwarf varieties can be used as perennial borders and in containers. Cut flowers.

Likes: Well drained, fertile soil.

Dislikes: Waterlogged soil.

Watering: Keep soil slightly moist while growing. It is important not to allow plants to get too dry or too wet whilst plants are dormant. In warmer climates, mulch plants well to ensure roots stay cool.

Fertilising: Top dress during warmer months. Liquid feed fortnightly once flower buds appear.

Lifting and storage: Can be left in the ground until clump gets too large. Clumps can be dug up and divided when dormant. When bare rooted, roots must remain damp, but not wet, and need to be replanted as soon as possible after receiving them.

Pests: Slugs & snails can be a problem.

Tips: Rhizomes are very fragile when they are dormant. If this is not possible, refrigeration is the best way to store, but make sure plants do not dry out.
When planting plants, care must be taken not to bury shoots too deep.
‘Pluck’ flower stems to pick. Foliage can be tidied up if required.

Check availability in store: Alstroemeria