Alstroemeria

Alstroemeria Description

Also known as the Peruvian Lily, alstroemeria originates in south America but was named after a Swedish baron called Clas Astromer by famous botanist Linnaeus.

These lilies in vibrant colours are excellent in borders and also last well as cut flowers in floral arrangements. They are available in a number of colours, yellows, oranges, and pinks. The flowers sit atop narrow stems with slightly gnarled leaves that are silver in colour. Their slightly spindly nature means that Alstroemeria should be grown in clumps.

Cultivation of Alstroemeria Plants

Alstroemeria seeds should be sown under glass in early spring to mid spring maintaining a temperature of 18 degrees Celsius.

Following germination plants that are large enough to be handled should be pricked out into a cold frame in suitable potting compost. The young plants should be hardened off before planting out in late spring and early summer.

The plants should be placed in their permanent flowering position approximately 30cm apart from each other and up to 45cm for the larger varieties.

The site chosen for permanent planting should be sunny but Alstroemerias do well in most types of soil. Deadhead through the flowering season.

Alstroemeria Pests and Diseases

Alstroemeria can be susceptible to attack from slugs and snails that eat the plants. Grey mould can affect the flower heads and foot rot can cause total plant collapse.