Hardy Alstroemerias shine in vases or gardens
These cold, short days are the perfect time to reflect on last season’s garden successes and failures and plan for this season. It’s exciting to look through the glossy catalogs with tantalizing photos and see the label NEW! on many plants. In case you missed it, here is one flower that is a darling of florists but only recently became available to gardeners: Alstroemeria, also known as Peruvian lily.
Florists aren’t the only ones who love this plant for its two-week staying power. Restaurants often place what look like miniature lilies in small vases on the table, where they enhance the joy of dining.
Also known as the lily of the Incas and parrot lily, the plant was named for Baron Claus von Alstroemer, a Swedish physician who collected the seeds on a botanical trip to South America. Its appeal has spread worldwide. Fortunately, florists can get an endless supply from places below the equator during our winter.
For many years, Alstroemerias were planted and enjoyed as a tender perennial because they were not hardy in our area. Now several species have been hybridized and are true perennials in zone 5. They bloom from early summer until frost with nonstop vigor, the flowers appearing with abundance in the crown. Although they are not scented, they more than make up for this loss with the ongoing visual display.
The cultivar ‘Inca Ice’ has apricot and cream petals with soft green foliage. It grows as a mound 24 inches tall. ‘Inca Joli’ has red orange flowers and reaches up 16-20 inches. They are both sensational and deserve to be placed front and center in the landscape.
I have planted ‘Inca Ice.’ Although it resembles a small lily, do not be fooled by its size. It makes a large statement and is definitely a garden diva.The six-petaled foliage is unique because the inner three blossoms contain a series of dark flecks for a visual knockout. These markings, sometimes called whis Walters kers or brushstrokes, are not on all
the species.
Alstroemerias should be placed in full sun to part shade in well-drained soil. A native of South America, it can tolerate heat but must have sufficient moisture to establish and survive. Too much water or waterlogged soil will lead to root rot. If in doubt, amend the soil generously with compost.
Only plant Alstroemerias when the ground temperature has warmed reliably. Cold and waterlogged soil will be its demise. Once it has grown and bloomed, it will develop a series of tuberous roots. This is rewarding because they are easy to see and divide in spring. The pieces that are separated may take a year or more to bloom.
The other truly unique feature of this plant is the way it must be deadheaded or sheared to bring indoors. This is one cultivar that cannot be cut at the stem. This will slow the growth process and cause injury to the root system. Instead, grasp the stem of the bloom or spent bloom as close to the ground as possible and pull gently until the whole stem is released. This helps the plant to produce new shoots.
If you wish to bring your flowers indoors, cut the stem to the desired length. Also cut off any foliage below the water line and change the water several times a week. One other thing I suggest is to put a drop of bleach in the water.
Though it’s small in stature, the Alstroemeria is a tough little beauty. Mine was trampled last summer. Much to my surprise and delight, it recovered and put on a tremendous display until fall.
Plant breeders suggest mulching once the ground freezes. This is not to keep it warm, but to stabilize it’s temperature. Mulch with shredded leaves or a layer of compost.
The Alstroemeria is a truly beautiful addition to the landscape. Although planting and maintaining it may seem challenging, it’s worth the trouble. Ask your garden center to stock the hardy Alstroemerias. You will love having this plant in your landscape.
Sources
Avant Gardens: avantgardensne.comor 508-998-8819
Brent and Becky’s Bulbs: www.brentandbeckysbulbs. or 887 661-2852
Jackson and Perkins: www.jacksonandperkins. or 887 923-0425