Astroemeria

There are about 50 species of this beautiful flowering plant native to South America. It is commonly called the Peruvian Lily or Parrot Lily as it looks like a miniature lily.  There are many different colors but no fragrance.  Once cut, these flowers can last up to 2 weeks in a vase.   The Alstroemeria flower is symbolic of wealth, prosperity and fortune and is also a flower of friendship.

This flowering plants grows best in full sun but if the temperatures get too hot, the plant will not flower.  To plant, set the roots in the ground no lower than the level it was in the container and at least one foot apart from the next plant.  Surround with mulch and organic compost.  Water daily to moisten soil but keep it well drained.

The first growth you will see on your Alstroemeria is support growth.  You will see short thin stems that do not produce any flowers.  These stems can be pulled and thinned out to leave room for the next growth stage which produces the flowers.

These plants will flower all spring and summer.  Make sure to pull or cut the flowers.  This encourages new flower growth.  If your stems produce seed pods, pull them out.  The seed pods will take up valuable energy needed to produce the beautiful flowers.

Lastly, once blooming season ends, your Alstroemeria will disappear into your soil. You can leave them there until it is time to replant in spring.  Dig up the roots, choose the heartiest white risomes and roots to keep, divide and replant for new growth.