Find a plant:


{name}

OR Browse All Plants


Genus Alstroemeria (Peruvian lily)

Alstroemeria Alstroemeria 'Casablanca' Photo/Illustration: Steve Aitken
al-strow-MARE-ee-ah Common Name: Peruvian lily
This genus includes 50 or so perennial species from mountains and grassland in South America. Often grown as cut flowers, Alstroemeria have colorful, funnel-shaped flowers, often with contrasting markings. The plants form clumps up to 2 feet across. The grayish green leaves are only 3 to 5 inches long, but the flower spikes can reach 3 feet in some species. Use in a mixed or perennial border, alpine house, or cutting garden.
 Noteworthy characteristics: Showy, funnel-shaped flowers. Good cut flowers. Contact with foliage may aggravate skin allergies.
 Care: In the garden, grow in moist but well-drained, fertile soil in sun or part shade. Plant 8 inches deep in late summer or early fall. Mulch for the first couple of years. Plants resent disturbance.
 Propagation: As soon as seeds are ripe, sow in containers in a cold frame. Plant out the seedlings by the potful to minimize disturbance to the tubers. Divide in fall or very early spring.
 Problems: Gray mold, viruses, spider mites, slugs.

Species, varieties and cultivars for genus Alstroemeria

Alstroemeria 'Casablanca' Alstroemeria 'Casablanca'
(Peruvian lily) Be the first to rate this plant
Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

'Casablanca' Peruvian lily is the closest to white that this genus has gotten as of yet. Inside its amaryllis-shaped white flowers, reddish dashes on a yellow wash and a pale pink throat add interest. 'Casablanca' is also taller than most other Alstroemerias. They make great cut flowers and are frequently used by florists; they also add a tropical feel to beds and borders. Roots are very brittle and care should be taken when planting.