The Ultimate Guide to Growing and Nurturing Alstroemeria, the Peruvian Lily

Alstroemeria, commonly known as Peruvian lilies or lilies of the Incas, are perennial tuberous plants native to South America. Though similar in appearance to true lilies, they are not actually members of the lily family. These plants produce beautiful flowers that can last for up to three weeks when used as cut flowers.

Peruvian lilies can grow up to 3 feet and typically spread through their roots. They prefer rich, well-draining soil, full sun, and regular moisture of one inch per week. However, they also require shade from the hot afternoon sun.

While mildly toxic to humans, according to the ASPCA, Peruvian lilies are non-toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. The plant’s common names include Peruvian lily, lily of the Incas, and princess lily, and it belongs to the Alstroemeriaceae family.

If you plan to grow Peruvian lilies, plant them in the spring after all danger of frost has passed and soil temperatures have reached 60 degrees Fahrenheit. The plants prefer full sun but may require shade in hotter climates to produce blooms. Handle their tuberous roots gently, as they can be brittle, and spread them over soil mounds before covering them with about 2 inches of soil. Peruvian lilies grow quickly and often bloom in their first year, but bare-root plants may take until the second year to flower. Keep the soil moist by watering them at least once a week.

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Peruvian lilies thrive in full sun for six to eight hours daily, but shaded areas during peak afternoon heat can be beneficial in hot climates. These plants prefer fertile, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH of 5.5-6.5, which can be achieved through organic amendments like compost or leaf mold. Regular watering is necessary, with at least 1 inch per week or when the soil surface feels dry during summer temperatures. Optimal temperature range is from 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, as temperatures above 90 degrees can cause blind stems. Proper spacing is crucial in humid areas to avoid fungal diseases like botrytis. One feeding in early spring with balanced flower fertilizer prepares the Peruvian lilies for the growing season, while a bi-weekly stream of nutrition makes them more productive. Peruvian lilies are hybrids developed from Alstroemeria aurea, with new colors introduced for the cut flower market. Popular varieties include ‘Fougere,’ ‘Moulin Rouge,’ ‘Mauve Majesty,’ ‘Indian Summer,’ and ‘Princess Eliane.’

The image displays a beautiful Princess Angela Peruvian Lily captured by Neil Holmes through his camera lens. The flower looks enchanting and visually appealing, with its delicate petals and vibrant colors. The photographer has done an excellent job of capturing the essence of this flower, making it look incredibly elegant and regal. Overall, the picture is a masterpiece in its own right, showcasing the beauty of nature that surrounds us.

To prevent Peruvian lilies from directing energy into seed production, it is recommended to cut them back after blooming. In cases where the plants have spread too much, removing less productive stems can encourage younger plants from newly formed tubers to flourish. The plant can be propagated through dividing its roots or growing from seeds, although seed propagation can take several years for flowering to occur. When propagating through root division, it is advisable to cut apart clumps in early spring before new growth emerges. Peruvian lilies thrive in large containers and can be paired with trailing plants that have similar growing conditions. To keep the plant healthy, it is important to provide adequate water, light, and balanced fertilizer. The plant is generally free of serious pests and diseases, although some garden pests like slugs, mites, aphids, and whiteflies can affect them. Diseases like botrytis and root rot can also impact Peruvian lilies. To encourage more blooms, deadheading spent flowers is recommended. Common problems with Peruvian lilies include stems and leaves wilting, plants not staying upright, and the plant gradually stopping flowering as the tubers age.