Alstroemeria is a beautiful flower also known as Peruvian Lily or Parrot Lily.

Cultivation of Peruvian Lilies

• Alstromerias are tuberous perennial plants for the border and grow deeply in light soil.
• If the conditions are dry when in flower give them a good watering to boost flower production.
• Plant roots in the dormant season after November. They don’t like to be moved as the roots break easily, if you do transplant dig deeply as the roots are drawn down.
• Propagate from finger length roots or with some skill grow from seed. Pull up old stalks to encourage growth from the roots.
• Plants will grow in large deep pots and provide flowers for long periods.

Floristry

These stunning plants add an exotic touch to any flower arrangement with their elaborate blend of vividly coloured and intricately marked flowers. I like the red yellow and white varieties which are easy to grow once they get started forming a good clump in the border.

• When picking for the vase pull the stalk up then cut to length as needed and they will last up to three weeks.
• Remove all leaves as they yellow before the flowers die
• Do not disbud
• Many of the shop bought flowers are from Kenya and Chile but they are east to grow yourself

Varieties to Consider

·Alstroemeria pulchella the parrot lily and Alstroemeria aurantiacastrong orange shades and Alstroemeria aurea

·Alstroemeria Ligtu hybrids are shorter and may be used in containers. Also called the lily of the Nile

·Inca Hybrids are also on offer in some areas

·A. psittacina ‘Casablanca’ claims to being white, but the markings create a special effect.

• Thompson & Morgan supply plants and seeds.