Alstroemeria (Peruvian Lily)

Native to South America where they occur mostly in the Andes, these tuberous and rhizomatous plants with about 50 species are among the finest of all perennials for cutting, but they do drop their petals. Erect, wiry stems bear scattered, thin, twisted leaves concentrated on the upper half, and terminate in umbels of outward-facing flowers, usually with flaring petals that are variously spotted or streaked. they flower profusely from spring to summer.

Insider's Secret

All grow well in sun or light shade in a well-enriched, well-drained acidic soil. They soon form large clumps, bearing dozens of flowerheads. Propagate from seed or by division in early spring. They are frost hardy but in cold winters protect the dormant tubers by covering with loose peat or dry bracken. Best left undisturbed when established, but one-year-old seedlings transplant well. Alstroemerias do well naturalized under trees or on sloping banks.

Alstroemeria, Dutch Hybrid, 'Mirella'

Alstroemeria Dutch Hybrid